Conceptualizing African Statehood and Legitimacy: Shifting Positions in the Research-Politics Nexus

If we want to come to a better understanding of research–policy interactions in the development arena in Africa and elsewhere, then one major requirement will be to better appreciate the contexts within which they occur and of which they form part. Evidently, the political, social and economic environment of public policy-making is of immediate relevance to the nature of policy goals pursued, to the manner this is being conducted and to the choices and disputes it gives rise to. Contextual dimensions are of paramount significance in the way in which any policy cycle is given shape, what role successive actors can play in it, and what limits to meaningful assessments and actions it poses. Some fuller exploration of these contextual dimensions will thus be important. One way of taking this up is through a closer look at how African regimes have tended to seek support and acclaim for their political objectives, or how their actions have translated themselves into winning or waning legitimacy. As will be seen, the research and policy dimensions and orientations involved have been part and parcel of these shifting contextual realities.