Events
From Aid to Agency: Can African Philanthropy Finance Social Development?
From
By invitation
As part of the 2025 Ibrahim Governance Weekend, the African Philanthropy Forum (APF), in partnership with the Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), will host a regional dialogue on June 3, 2025, from 09:00 to 11:00 AM in Marrakesh, Morocco, under the theme: “From Aid to Agency: Can African Philanthropy Finance Social Development?”
This side-event will bring together philanthropists, funders, development professionals, and civil society actors to discuss evolving approaches to development financing in Africa in the context of reduced foreign assistance.
External aid has historically supported social development efforts across the continent. In recent years, however, changes in global economic conditions and shifting donor priorities have contributed to a decline in funding from several key partners. These developments coincide with a period of demographic change and evolving social needs, including in areas such as youth employment, gender equity, climate resilience, and digital inclusion.
The session will examine how these changes may influence Africa’s development strategies and explore the role of African philanthropy and other domestic funding sources in supporting long-term social outcomes. It will also consider approaches to mobilizing and scaling both local and international philanthropic capital. The discussion aims to contribute to ongoing reflections on how development efforts can adapt in response to a changing funding landscape.
| 09h05 – 09h10 | Welcoming Remarks
Mosun Layode, Executive Director, African Philanthropy Forum |
| 09h10 – 09h30 | Opening Remarks
Speakers: Gbenga Oyebode, Board Chair, African Philanthropy Forum Karim El Aynaoui, Executive President, Policy Center for the New South |
| 09h30 – 09h45 | Presentation
Bathylle Missika, Head of Networks, Partnerships and Gender Division, OECD Development Centre |
| 09h45 – 10h35 | Panel Session – From Aid to Agency: Can African Philanthropy Finance Social Development?
Moderator: Mosun Layode, Executive Director, African Philanthropy Forum
Speakers: Hassina Moukhariq, Director of the International Portfolio at the OCP Foundation Vanina Laurent-Ledru, Director General, The Sanofi Collective Holy Ranaivozanany, Deputy Executive Director, Africa Europe Foundation Ndidi Okonkwo-Nwuneli, President & CEO, ONE Campaign |
| 10h35 – 10h50 | Q&A and Closing Reflections from the audience |
| 10h50 – 10h55 | Closing Remarks
Nouzha Chekrouni, Senior Fellow, Policy Center for the New South Mosun Layode, Executive Director, African Philanthropy Forum |
