Research and knowledge management (RKM) are arguably the fundamental basis upon which their success or survival rests in many organisations. Yet, these critical tools for supporting and measuring an organisation's performance in an information age, are often found wanting in African election management bodies (EMBs). The resultant gaps threaten smooth governance in these institutions; and a lack of empirical research and relevant infrastructure in turn affect the governance of elections in these countries. Finally, this situation normally affects governance processes countrywide as it affects political parties and other stakeholders. This paper examines the challenges and gaps facing selected African EMBs in terms of research and knowledge management, focusing on the effects of such gaps on governance processes in the EMBs and in their countries. It is argued that EMBs are globally important vehicles through which democratic gove