Dr. Kidane Mengisteab

Biography

Kidane Mengisteab is a Professor at the Pennsylvania State University, specializing in African Studies and Political Science. He holds a Ph.D. in International Studies from the University of Denver and an M.A. in International Studies from both the University of Denver and Carleton University. His current research focuses on the relevance of traditional institutions in Africa's governance, as well as the socioeconomic implications of the expansion of extractive industries and commercial farming in Africa. He explores alternative approaches to democratization across the African continent. Mengisteab is the author and editor of several books on Africa, including his recent work 'Horn of Africa: Hot Spots in Global Politics' published by Polity Press in 2015. He is also co-editing a book titled 'Traditional Institutions and Contemporary African Governance' and is actively working on a new book concerning democratization in Africa.

Research Interests