As 2021 came to a close, the Wilson Center Africa Program continued its annual tradition of asking policymakers, practitioners, scholars, and Africa watchers to reflect on what they considered to be the year’s most impactful developments on the African continent, in U.S.-Africa relations, and about Africa’s role in the global arena. Our contributors responded with 27 mini-essays covering a broad range of topics in the governance, security, development, and social spheres.

This year marks the sixth edition of the Africa: Year in Review series and encompasses a collection of essays that present brief analyses on many of the continent’s most significant developments in political, economic, and social affairs. Many developments stood out over the year, with our contributors reflecting on topics ranging from civil unrest and corruption to sustainable development efforts.

We thank all of the contributors for this year's volume. We had a wide range of experts and practitioners write for the publication this year, and we are grateful for their expertise on the variety of topics. These key developments resonated across Africa and its relations with rest of the world. 

As you read these mini-essays, we ask you to join the Wilson Center Africa Program in reflecting on the developments highlighted, challenges faced, and solutions offered that we hope will educate, inform, and serve as inspiration to propel the continent forward in 2022.

We hope that you enjoy reading and sharing this edition of Africa: Year in Review! Feel free to tag us on social media using @AfricaUpClose and #AfricaYearInReview. 

The statements made and views expressed are solely those of the authors and do not represent the views or official positions of the Wilson Center.