TheCable

The African Philanthropy Forum (APF) hosted the fourth edition of its annual conference on October 30 and 31.

The conference, themed ‘African Philanthropy in a Changing Global Context’, is the first held by the organisation as an independent entity, following its incubation by the Global Philanthropy Forum (GPF).

The event was attended by philanthropists, thought leaders, heads of foundations, philanthropic advisors, among others. They discussed pertinent issues peculiar to philanthropy in Africa especially within the parameters of a changing global context.

The panelists also discussed the role of philanthropists in proffering solutions to mitigate said peculiarities and shape the continent’s future.

The annual event kicked off with a cultural site visit to Nike art gallery and a pre-conference reception at Terra Kulture which featured a private viewing of ‘SARO The Musical’.

Tsitsi Masiyiwa, board chair, APF, enjoined all participants to find in the forum a safe space to dig deep at the social challenges of our time, while beginning the journey as philanthropists to be more committed especially financially to bring about real and sustainable change in Africa.

Queen Sylvia of Buganda and APF board member, in her keynote address, said: “I strongly believe that there is a genuine desire to own and be in control of our own development as Africans and a yearning for assistance that strengthens capacities and nourishes home grown initiatives.

Speakers present at the two-day conference included Mo Abudu, founder, Ebony Life TV, Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, co-founder, African Women’s Development Fund, Kofi Appenteng, president, Africa America Institute, Julie Essiam, CEO, Ecobank Foundation, Tonye Cole, co-founder, Sahara Group, among others.