Nexus between conflict and border militarisation

Mongae tells us that the militarisation of borders in conflict-ridden African regions emerges as a response to heightened security concerns, aiming to safeguard national interests, uphold territorial integrity, and regulate the movement of people and goods across borders. Rooted in the legacy of colonial rule, he says militarisation has become entrenched in the politics of many African countries since independence.

The post-colonial political trajectory of many African states reveals a complex web of civil-military relations, shaping their institutions, power structures, and societal dynamics. The relationship between civilian governments and the military has been pivotal in determining political stability, governance effectiveness, and the legitimacy of state authority, varying from cooperative partnership to outright military rule across different African countries.