After rigged elections installed a pliant opposition leader in office, neither a true transfer of power nor a revolution seem likely in DR Congo.

Engagement, not estrangement, is the best policy for influencing African states.

Social media-savvy, disaffected urban youth are shaking traditional power structures across Africa—but this isn’t the Sub-Saharan version of the Arab Spring.

Nigeria’s upcoming national elections certainly will be contentious and most likely violent, but no matter who wins they’re not likely to change the country’s fundamental political and economic realities.

As the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit draws near, some will undoubtedly bill it as the Obama Administration’s next move in an escalating competition with the Chinese in Africa. This oft-repeated and inaccurate platitude misrepresents both current geopolitical realities and commercial opportunities.

In Nigeria, Boko Haram and #BringBackOurGirls are just one side of the story. As in much of Africa, terrorism, lawlessness, and state powerlessness exist alongside economic growth and rapidly declining poverty.