Why It’s Important
The Global Sustainable Development Report (GSDR) identifies capacity-building as a key enabler of transformation, alongside governance, economy and finance, science and technology, and individual and collective action. It highlights the need for knowledge, skills, and tools to address complex challenges, manage transitions, and build resilient, adaptive systems.
Key capacities needed for transformation include: Strategic direction and foresight; innovation and the generation of new alternatives; orchestration, engagement, and negotiation; identifying and overcoming impediments and system lock-ins; and learning and resilience.
Many capacity-building efforts in Africa have failed to deliver lasting impact for several reasons:
Overemphasis on Technical Skills: Many training programs focus on technical skills without addressing the structural barriers that limit effectiveness.
Imported Models and Knowledge Systems: capacity building often relies on imported frameworks that fail to reflect local contexts, indigenous knowledge systems, and African values. Moreover, many programs are top-down and externally driven, excluding the very people they aim to empower.
Lack of Systems Thinking: Traditional capacity-building approaches often ignore the interconnected nature of economic, social, and political challenges, resulting in fragmented and unsustainable outcomes.
Weak Institutional Memory and Continuity: Without strong institutional foundations, the benefits of capacity building are often lost when individuals leave or when funding ends.
Why Work With Us
Prioritize Local Knowledge and Context
We draw on African histories, cultures, and values to create context-specific training programs that reflect the realities and aspirations of African societies.
Embrace Systems Thinking
We recognize that effective capacity development requires a holistic approach that considers the interconnected nature of economic, social, and political systems.
Apply Customized Learning Approaches
We offer highly customized training options (both online and face-to-face), drawing from the most recent adult education theories and research.
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Our Offerings
- We build the skills needed to transform economic structures and strengthen self-reliance. This includes training in trade policy analysis, industrial strategy, economic governance, value chain development and South-South and Triangular Cooperation.
- We support capacity building of institutions and communities to navigate the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. This includes training in environmental governance, climate adaptation, climate justice, ecosystem restoration, and green energy transitions.
- We provide capacity building for effective, inclusive, and responsive institutions. This includes training in strategic planning, futures thinking and systems thinking.
- We build the capacity of communities to influence public policy, and hold leaders accountable. This includes training in human rights advocacy, and community organizing. We also provide government authorities with skills to facilitate fulfillment of their human rights obligations, such as training on rights-based policies, human rights impact assessments and meaningful public participation.
- We build the capacity for critical thinking, cultural renewal, and knowledge sovereignty. This includes training in decolonizing education, indigenous knowledge systems, narrative change, and critical pedagogy.
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