Sebastian Elischer’s latest publication in Democratization

CAS congratulates Sebastian Elischer on his recent publication in Democratization. In the article, “Towards Praetorian-Led Electoral Authoritarianism? Examining the Post-Coup Transitions in Francophone Africa,” Elischer analyzes how military-led regimes in Francophone Africa navigate post-coup transitions, offering critical insights into evolving forms of electoral authoritarianism.

The Global Faculty Feature: Dr. John Muchira

Dr. Muchira recently published two open Access textbooks, Hujambo! A Standards-Based Approach to Introductory Kiswahili, Volume 1 (June 2025) and Hujambo! Volume 2 (July 2025). The textbooks are part of an evidence-based, open-access curriculum that seeks to fill a gap in the literature on Open Educational Resources (OER) for teaching Less Commonly Taught Languages (LCTLs)

Greg Kiker named chair of UF’s Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department

Greg Kiker, a UF alum and faculty member for over 20 years, has carried out research on southern Africa’s savanna ecosystems as well as a range of other environmental and engineering challenges. A long-time CAS Affiliate and member of the CAS Natural Resource Management Working Group, Kiker was recently named chair of the University of Florida’s Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE) Department after serving as interim chair.

Happy 20th Anniversary Dr. Renata Serra

Congratulations to Dr. Renata Serra, instructional professor at the Center for African Studies, as she celebrates 20 years with the University of Florida! Dr. Serra is an economist with more than 25 years of experience in research, teaching, and consultancy on African development, with a focus on the Sahel region. At the Global Food Systems Institute, she leads the Sub-Saharan Africa Working Group and advances high-level collaborations and research projects.