Written By Afua Gyapomaa,

Accra, 28 August 2024: I had the privilege of attending the 5th African Philanthropy Conference (APC), held from July 29 to August 2, 2024, at the Elephant Hills Resort in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The conference, themed ‘The Next Frontiers of African Philanthropy’, was a transformative experience that offered profound insights into the evolving landscape of African philanthropy.

The theme captured APC’s essence, focusing on innovative strategies and emerging trends reshaping traditional philanthropic models. This year’s APC was not just a gathering of professionals; it was a movement—a convergence of like-minded individuals and organisations committed to redefining the boundaries of philanthropy in Africa.

The week-long conference featured diverse discussions on topics ranging from the role of digital technologies to the importance of climate science and innovative financing models. An impactful discussion centred around how philanthropy can address colonial injustices and promote cultural preservation through restitution and reparations. These conversations emphasised the need to understand historical contexts to create meaningful and lasting impact. This is particularly relevant as African philanthropy increasingly grapples with colonialism’s legacy and its continuing effects on the continent. The conference highlighted the critical integration of technologies like AI and robotics in philanthropy, stressing the need for responsible use to benefit the greater good. It also underscored the vital role of young leaders in shaping inclusive strategies and enhancing the sector, particularly in fostering practices that empower marginalised communities.

Personal reflections: a time of growth

Participating in the APC was an enriching experience, professionally and personally. The exchange of ideas and the collective wisdom of the participants broadened my perspective on the power of philanthropy to drive social change. The conference reaffirmed my belief that African philanthropy is at a pivotal point, where tradition meets innovation and where collective efforts can truly make a difference. The sessions on feminist philanthropy and governance were particularly impactful. These discussions highlighted the importance of centring the perspectives of historically marginalised groups and ensuring transparency and accountability in all philanthropic endeavours. The feminist lens, in particular, challenged participants to think critically about how philanthropy can be more inclusive and equitable. It aligns closely with the values emphasised in my work, where the focus is on creating fair and just systems for all.

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Afua Gyapomaa is the Partnerships and Philantrophy Officer at AWDF. This article was originally published in  the Alliance Magazine, official media partner for the 5th African Philantrophy Conference 2024.