As the 21st Century approached, there were various multi-faceted efforts geared towards a critical review of development in Africa. In the spirit of Africa taking ownership and responsibility for her development, there was ambition and optimism expressed in the common question “can Africa claim the 21st Century?”

Factors that determine full and active participation in constitution making in many African countries include the traditional set-up, customary laws and practices, modernity and religious factors. In some instances, customary law and religious beliefs override the Constitution.