The 5th African Philanthropy Conference Convenes a Powerhouse Lineup of Keynote Speakers
July 8, 2024

Monday, 8 July 2024 – The countdown to the 5th African Philanthropy Conference is underway! Taking place in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe from Monday 29 July to Friday 2 August 2024, the annual conference is a highlight on the continent’s philanthropy events calendar, offering a space for collaboration, networking as well as knowledge and experience sharing.

The convening partners are delighted to unveil its impressive roster of keynote speakers for this year. This selection fulfils their commitment to creating an environment where delegates can engage on challenges and solutions for the sector, stimulated by the insights and reflections the keynote speakers will present.

“We are honoured to have such a distinguished roster of keynote speakers joining us for the 5th African Philanthropy Conference.” said Ebrima Sall, Executive Director of TrustAfrica and Conference co-convenor. “Their expertise and proven track records in enabling progressive change will undoubtedly contribute to a rich and productive dialogue that will shape the future of giving in Africa.”

The convening promises to be a landmark event for African philanthropy and social investment, hosted under the theme of “The New Frontiers for African Philanthropy”. Delegates will delve into how emerging trends like artificial intelligence and climate change are impacting strategic and operational practices while, exploring innovative approaches to tackle Africa’s most pressing challenges, from education and healthcare to environmental sustainability and economic development. The presentations of the keynote speakers will greatly contribute to the dialogues and outcomes of the convening programme.

Meet the keynote speakers

  • Maurice Radebe is a respected leader in the field of African energy and higher education. He is a published author and business leader whose address promises to ignite thought-provoking discussions. He is the Head and Director of Wits Business School.
  • Makoma Lekalaka is an advocate for energy, ecological and climate justice. She is a social movements activist whose background is rooted in the liberation movement and campaigning for a just and fair society. She is the Director of Earthlife Africa.
  • Tade Aina is a thought leader, researcher and writer whose unique perspectives will illuminate how strategic philanthropy can address critical challenges and empower African communities to thrive. He is the Chief Impact and Researcher at Mastercard Foundation.
  • Abeba Birhane is a respected cognitive scientist whose presentation will explore how social investment and philanthropy can tap into the opportunities that technology and Artificial intelligence increasingly offer. She is a Senior Fellow at the Mozilla Foundation.
  • Brian Kagoro is a seasoned development leader and thought provoker, whose address will be invaluable as we explore innovative strategies and partnerships that can reshape the future of African giving. He is the Managing Director of Programs at the Open Society Foundations.
  • Naila Farouky is a powerful champion for social justice and equity. Her address will stir critical conversations on how philanthropy can create a more inclusive and just Africa. She is the CEO and Executive Director of Arab Foundations Forum.
  • Godwin Murunga is a scholar and political analyst who offers a wealth of research, teaching and management experience. His address will be of immense value to emerging and established academics. He is the Executive Secretary of CODESRIA.

Tickets for the 5th African Philanthropy Conference can be purchased on the official website, www.africanphilanthropyconference.com

About the African Philanthropy Conference

Launched in 2019, the African Philanthropy Conference is a pivotal platform for discourse and the development of the philanthropy ecosystem on the continent. The conference attracts institutions and stakeholders to progressive conversations where participants share experiences, reflect as a collective and map the future of development through the lens of African philanthropy and social investment. The convening curates critical discussion throughout its programme while fostering an environment for new partnerships to be established while strengthening existing collaborations. For more information, visit africanphilanthropyconference.com.

Click below to access more information:

Concept note and background of the conference: https://bit.ly/4bzEUkr  

Reports from previous editions: https://bit.ly/4dthq26

The convening partners of the conference are

  • The African Philanthropy Forum (APF)
  • The Africa Philanthropy Network (APN)
  • The Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI)
  • The East Africa Philanthropy Network (EAPN)
  • The Southern Africa Trust
  • TrustAfrica
  • The Zambian Governance Foundation (ZGF)