Contrary to popular belief, Africa's civil wars are not due to its ethnic and
religious diversity. Using recently developed models of the overall prevalence of
civil wars in 161 countries between 1960-1999, we draw lessons with special
reference to Africa, showing that the relatively higher prevalence of war in Africa
is not due to the ethno-linguistic fragmentation of its countries, but rather to high
levels of poverty, failed political institutions, and economic dependence on natural
resources. We argue that the best and fastest strategy to reduce the prevalence of
civil war in Africa and prevent future civil wars is to institute democratic reforms
that effectively manage the challenges facing Africa's diverse societies.
