Africa's presidential rap idol?

A bold attempt to connect with an increasingly youthful electorate? A cynical manoeuvre? Or just a cringe-worthy - dad-on-the-dance-floor - embarrassment? What to make of the outbreak of rapping that seems to be infecting state houses across the continent?

First up, Gabon's President Ali Bongo, set the pace with this little number. Extra credit for actually getting up on stage and apparently remembering his lines.

Now, hot from Uganda, a rather more sedate performance from President Yoweri Museveni, a former soldier who seems to be blushing his way through this ditty.

And here in South Africa, while no politician can rival President Zuma for sheer stage presence, foot-in-mouth-firebrand ANC Youth leader Julius Malema has apparently produced a gospel-style song celebrating the benefits of nationalization.

I smell a reality tv show... Presidential Pop Idol anyone? Although what I think the continent really needs is a more ambitious version of the "job swap" format, with countries voting to exchange their governments.

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