Philanthropy has shaped cultures across borders and generations.
From the ancient days when the Romans offered food to slaves to the modern global organizations, generosity has always been a driver of constructive change.
This shift is giving hope to communities and fortitude for future generations across the world. Africa too, with all its diversity, culture, and untapped potential is no exception.
Philanthropy in Africa dates back to the era of indigenous societies that valued community support and giving.
However, western prejudices and biases have overshadowed African philanthropy.
In Africa, philanthropy is more than charity or assistance but an avenue for decolonization.
Africa had strong mutual aid and community support systems way before the dawn of colonial rule. Their communities were deeply integrated and cultured to embrace sharing of resources and aid.
Families, clans, and individuals felt obligated to help the needy regardless of socioeconomic status. While colonization has weakened these customs, some African societies still value giving.
Challenges and Assumptions in African Philanthropy
Despite its longevity, African philanthropy still confronts several obstacles that need solutions. For instance, the idea that Africa is monolithic must be disproven.
Each nation on the continent faces unique difficulties and opportunities. But we must recognise and respect this diversity.
The idea that African philanthropy is focused on just charity is also widespread. While humanitarian aid is vital, charity is much broader.
African philanthropy also encompasses systemic change, education, women empowerment, climate change, and equitable economic development.
Today, African donors and organizations are also leading the fight against poverty and environmental degradation and gradually changing the way the continent tackles Poverty.
The Kibera School for Girls in the heart of Africa’s largest slum of Kibera, for example, is a beacon of hope shining brightly as an inspiring example of African philanthropy in action.
Founded by Kennedy Odede and Jessica Posner, the school not only provides quality education to girls but also addresses the deep-rooted challenges faced by the community.
This initiative challenges the assumption that African philanthropy is solely about charity by encompassing a broader spectrum, including education, empowerment, and community development.
Opportunities and Solutions
To promote Pan-African philanthropy, we must recognize its specific needs and strengths. African philanthropy needs a supportive environment.
This calls for integration of local knowledge and opinions in cooperation.
Moreover, philanthropy must address climate change. For years, Africa has been on the receiving end of droughts and extreme changes in weather patterns due to climate change.
As such, philanthropic organizations should align their agenda to fund research, promote innovation, and promote environmental legislation and, consequently, help to mitigate climate change.
Public-Private Philanthropy Partnerships (PPPPs) are another possibility. Addressing complicated issues like poverty and global health requires government, business, and charitable collaboration.
These alliances can give resources, experience, and innovation for meaningful change.
Wealth creation and distribution are changing due to rising globalization. Focus is shifting to social impact and inclusive economic growth.
By investing in underprivileged communities and encouraging equitable economic development, philanthropic organisations can help achieve these goals.
The African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) is a dynamic example focused on empowering women and driving systemic change.
By funding initiatives that address gender-based violence, economic empowerment, and women’s leadership, the AWDF challenges the assumptions of philanthropy by investing in the transformation of societies and fostering inclusive development.
Decolonizing African Philanthropy Language and Barriers
Decolonizing ecological constraints and language is a major difficulty for African charity. Colonialism shaped power, resources, and decision-making in industry. Philanthropic organisations must acknowledge and address these past injustices.
Redefining terms of interaction is part of decolonization. African philanthropy should be considered as an equal partner in a worldwide giving network, not a subsidiary of Western philanthropy.
This power transfer must be reflected in sector jargon. “Philanthropy” is not so conversant a noun to Africans, but now talk about ‘Harambee’, community, Ubuntu et al, and now we have a meaningful conversation happening.
Open and honest discussions on philanthropy’s issues are essential. Philanthropies must address racism, injustice, and power. Economic disparity typically accompanies political repression and ethnic discord in a divided globe.
The African Philanthropy Forum (APF); a platform that actively works to decolonize the language and barriers in African philanthropy is a great example.
Benefits of redefined philanthropy
By fostering dialogues, partnerships, and initiatives led by Africans, the APF empowers the continent to shape its philanthropic narrative by challenging the assumption that external actors should define the terms of engagement and instead promotes African agency in philanthropy.
Finally, Africa has great untapped potential, and philanthropy may help unleash it. African philanthropy’s assumptions, issues, solutions, and opportunities are interconnected, requiring a comprehensive and collaborative approach.
Philanthropy in Kenya and Africa has great promise, as I saw at the #WINGSForum2023 in Nairobi. It shows what we can achieve when we work together, share knowledge, and make meaningful change.
GlobalGiving, an organization that connects donors with grassroots projects around the world, exemplifies the power of unleashing African philanthropy.
This collaboration transcends borders and empowers local solutions for local problems.
Africa needs to embrace its true altruism and reinvent its story of growth. With respect for diversity, decolonization, and collaboration, African philanthropy may drive meaningful, enduring social change.
The writer, Waihiga K.Muturi is the Founder & CEO, Let’s Create Africa and Africa-HUB Programs Advisor, GlobalGiving! Email: [email protected]