At the opening of the Democracy Union of Africa (DUA) Forum 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, a souvenir award was presented to Lord Michael Ashcroft, KCMG, PC, the Honorary Chairman of the International Democracy Union (IDU). The recognition highlighted his enduring contribution to strengthening global democratic cooperation, advancing good governance, and promoting conservative values.
The DUA Forum, held from 28–29 October 2025, convened political leaders, policymakers, and academics under the theme “Navigating Africa’s Strategic Position in a Multipolar World: Towards Equitable and Mutually Beneficial Partnerships.” The event provided a continental platform for centre-right political parties to deliberate on Africa’s evolving global partnerships, the state of democracy, and economic governance.
Founded in 1997 in Dakar, Senegal and headquartered in Accra, Ghana, the Democracy Union of Africa is a continental alliance of centre-right parties advocating for democracy, accountable governance, individual liberty, and market-driven development. It functions as the African affiliate of the IDU, which connects over 80 centre-right parties worldwide, including the UK Conservative Party, the US Republican Party, and Germany’s CDU.
Lord Ashcroft, a British businessman and political strategist, served as Deputy Chairman of the UK Conservative Party and currently chairs the IDU in an honorary capacity. Beyond his political influence, he is a noted philanthropist, having signed The Giving Pledge and established multiple charitable initiatives focused on education, veterans’ welfare, and crime prevention.
The award presented to Lord Ashcroft during the DUA Forum symbolised recognition of his longstanding commitment to democratic strengthening and international political collaboration. His engagement with African democracies through the IDU underscores a shared objective: fortifying democratic institutions and amplifying Africa’s role within global conservative networks.
By honouring Ashcroft, the DUA reaffirmed its mission to build sustainable alliances that advance Africa’s political stability and participation in a rapidly changing international order. The forum’s proceedings marked a strategic step in aligning African democratic movements with global frameworks that prioritise freedom, accountability, and development.
