DD's Quarterly Newsletter

Greetings, Dynamic Development Practitioner,

Welcome to The Nile! This quarterly newsletter from Development Dynamics highlights reflections, updates, and the interconnectedness of social impact issues while showcasing the efforts of leaders and practitioners who are driving positive change, particularly in Africa.

Through The Nile, we co-create better futures by leveraging field lessons, working on collaborative projects with stakeholders and clients, and reflecting on insights from our expert contributors.

We hope you find these updates valuable.?

Elizabeth Wanda (Liz) | Development Dynamics

The Nile! Editor,

A letter to Africa?

Are Women’s Rights A Suggestion? A Global Examination.

In the realm of conflict and instability, women across the world continue to face the ever so fervent and brutal assault on their rights, freedoms and dignity. From the conflict ridden region of Tigray, the embattled streets of Haiti, the unlawfully occupied territory of Palestine, the imperialist backed war for resources in Congo, the politically charged conflict in Sudan, the femicide ridden streets of Nairobi and different areas in Kenya, South Africa and Nigeria, women have continued to bear the unnecessary and unmitigated brunt of conflict, violence and systemic oppression.?

As these nations and cities grapple with issues of imperialism, political instability, social unrest and all-round hardship, women find themselves at uniquely vulnerable positions with their voices silenced, their bodies violated and their spirits irreparably broken. It is at times like these that we must, almost as an inevitable responsibility, shed light on these matters; putting into question the world’s continued and historical complicity in the disregard of women’s rights. Beyond this, we must demand immediate justice for the women whose lives and rights have been painfully trampled upon. However, before we commit to these actions, we must understand what the global context looks like.

In this Al Jazeera article , it is reported that in Tigray, at least 120,000 women and girls were raped in what is termed as a “systematic campaign of sexual violence used as a weapon of war”.? In October 2024, over 130 women in Sudan died in mass by suicide to avoid getting raped by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. In Eastern Congo, girls as young as 12 years old have resorted to sex work to fend for themselves and others amongst them ?23 months old babies to 84 year old women continue to experience sexual violence that includes rape, kidnapping, sexual slavery and forced marriages. In Haiti, the feminization of HIV has become a normalized phenomenon that is explained by the violence women and girls experience from gangs. In Kenya,? the rates of femicide are at an all time high with 99 women brutally killed in the last 90 days, amongst them, a 12 year old girl.

These dehumanizing and unacceptable forms of violence date far beyond pre-colonial Africa? and continue to have devastating effects on women’s physical, mental and emotional health. It is unbelievable that we can draw parallels between what is happening in Tigray and the situations in Palestine, Congo, Sudan and Haiti. The similarities drawn from the stories of women from these regions uncover an ugly and historical behavioural trend; that whenever war or conflict? happens, women must brace themselves for unimaginable violence from men.?

We can wax lyrical about how women and girls are prioritized in times of conflict, but the realities on the ground present us with much harsher contraries. The invoking of patriarchal gender distinctions does not practically translate and it is a rhetoric that holds no water in the face of imperialist and patriarchal backed war, conflict and systems. If we truly value women’s rights as much as we say,? then we should be able to concretely talk about and distinguish between what has been normalized and what is right.? It should not be normal that authorities, when questioned about rising cases of femicide, resort to victim blaming and shifting the responsibility to women, actively abdicating their role and the role of men in perpetuating violence against women. It should not be normal that Tigrayan women have to seek reprieve through approaches used by women survivors of the Rwandan genocide in pursuit of healing and normalcy. Even after experiencing insurmountable violence on their bodies, women must continue to piece themselves together with practically no support. It goes without saying that with little to no access to psychological support in times of crisis, the dignity of women continues to suffer painstaking blows and unimaginable lows. These harsh realities beg the question, what do we do now that we know all these things?

Do we continue to be appalled, shocked and constantly calling out war and violence mongering entities in perpetuity, when we have the privilege and power to do more? Do we resort to polite and Westernized forms of feminism that do not call out the injustices in totality and seek to be performative and hollow in nature? Do we lay in wait for a morally and politically correct body to save us from this abyss of inevitable violence that is deeply entrenched in patriarchy, neocolonialism and imperialism? We certainly have the power to make change from within and it starts by acknowledging a simple fact; that violence against women is normalized and it is a global pandemic worth warranting immediate attention and action.?

At Development Dynamics, we value the love and liberation of all peoples in all territories? and it is our imperative to bring such matters to light not just for our consumption but more so for our actions. While war, conflict and violence against women seem like issues that are too complex, they are a lived reality for a lot of women and girls world over. Any action, whether it is calling out, educating oneself or sending aid to the people in war torn areas is not small and ultimately adds to the progress and emancipation of women from violence. What actions will you commit to today to turn women’s rights from a mere suggestion into a lived reality where they are upheld and respected?

Written By Phelsia Kojwang | Development Dynamics

Product & Service Designer | Intersectional Feminist Researcher?

Hot Off the Press: Recent Dynamic Initiatives

1. Development Dynamics Booklet launch —The Lives, Times, & Chapters of Luminaries Making Good Happen in Africa (Volume 1)

On September 26, 2024, Development Dynamics launched Volume 1 of the Luminaries Booklet: "The Lives, Times, & Chapters of Luminaries Making Good Happen in Africa," capturing reflections from leaders and practitioners across the development and social impact sectors. This four-part booklet, inspired by #DDwithMaqC podcast episodes hosted by MaqC Eric Gitau, PhD, offers a powerful platform for luminaries to share their journeys, challenges, triumphs, and commitment to building a better Africa. Each story reinforces Africa’s bright and promising future, organized under four themes: Challenge Assumptions, Expand Horizons, and Inspire Action.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the Lead Insights team for their expertise and dedication in making this booklet a reality: Maria Angela W Maina , a skilled Policy Advocacy and Strategic Engagement Consultant with extensive experience in policy research, advocacy, and strategic communications; and Gloria Omuya , whose passion lies in building impactful programs, crafting strategic plans, and sharing stories that drive change. Their expertise is why anyone looking to amplify their story should connect with us. The four themes featured include:

1?? The Building Blocks for a Sustainable Continent — Dr Amakove Wala , Lucy Muigai , Dr. Katindi Sivi , Al Kags , and Deborah Kimathi discuss the importance of sustainable business practices, centering community voices, and investing in Africa's future.

2?? A Healthy Continent is a Wealthy Continent — Dr. Githinji Gitahi , Dr. Lilian Otiso , Humphrey Nabimanya , Catherine Kyobutungi , Dr. Were Onyino , and Janet Mbugua highlight preventive healthcare, community health, advocacy, and the role of research in healthcare improvements.

3?? Youth Agency: The Currency and Catalyst for Africa's Future — Joy Zawadi , Jking Ngare , Martha Nerima Selina Wako , Mike Mutungi , Pauline Wanja- , Michael Ngigi , Caren Wakoli , and Steve Kariithi emphasize progressive youth development, meaningful engagement, and leadership.

4?? Africa’s Rebirth: Intersectional Justice and Equity — Sheila Masinde , Bina Maseno , Waithira Kibinda , Andrew Ranja , and Irungu Nyakera discuss the intersections of politics, leadership, and governance for a more transparent and accountable society.

The launch included two insightful panel sessions. The first, Storytelling as a Catalyst for Equity and Change, moderated by Gloria Omuya , featured Jking Ngare and Wanjiku Njenga Lucy . The second panel, Why We Need More Stories From Women in Africa, moderated by Maria Angela W Maina , brought together Joy Zawadi , Pauline Wanja- , and Bina Maseno M.

The event also showcased live booklet readings and Q&A sessions:

• Part One: Dr. Katindi Sivi Sivi read The Building Blocks for a Sustainable Continent.
• Part Two: Dr. Lilian Otiso and Dr. Were Onyino read A Healthy Continent is a Wealthy Continent.
• Part Three: Michael Ngigi read Youth Agency: The Current and Catalyst for Africa’s Future,
• Part Four: Sheila Masinde read Africa’s Rebirth: Intersectional Justice and Equity.

This Volume is a must-have for anyone engaged in development, philanthropy, and the purpose-driven economy, offering deep insights into key issues and innovative solutions.

To Watch the full stories of these amazing luminaries click here! and more from the day of the launch! https://bit.ly/3zPUifi

Write to Experience Lynchpins | Development Dynamics | Development Dynamics to get your e-copy for only $7.27 or a hardcover copy for $27.27, delivered to you regardless of your location. Part of the proceeds will support the next cohort of #HackingTheHyphen , an innovation lab finding solutions at the nexus of #climate, #gender, and #reproductive justice.

#LifeatDD: Laughing, Learning, Crying, & Growing Together

• With the growth of our projects and offerings, our team has evolved to reflect fresh perspectives and expertise. This quarter, we were fortunate to bring on board an exceptionally skilled Videographer. Nicholas Khamala joined Development Dynamics as the Creative & Visual Storytelling Junior Associate. With his unique and friendly personality, Khamala brings valuable expertise to the team. He studied film and TV at AFDA School for the Creative Economy in South Africa and attended a technical university where he studied graphic design. His arrival is pivotal in Development Dynamics' journey as we expand our production unit and elevate DDWithMaqC to new heights.

• We’re thrilled to welcome Mutile Mwongo to Development Dynamics as the new? Systems Pathfinder | Health and Climate Researcher Mutile brings her expertise as DD expands its portfolio into the climate sector, along with a strong foundation in systems thinking. A dedicated researcher and practitioner, she works at the intersection of climate change and health, with a background in Microbiology that gives her deep insights into lifeforms, their interconnected processes, and their impact on health and natural systems. Mutile’s calm presence and collaborative spirit are already enriching our team, and we’re excited to see her impact in her new role!

Join us for the November edition of #LastThursdays, hosted by Mutile, on "Systems Practice for Social Impact." In partnership with Food for the Hungry Kenya, Development Dynamics will explore systems thinking as a tool for sustainable, user-centered development. Register now to secure your seat!?Register here ! ?

• Nicholas Mwakuwona has joined Development Dynamics as our new Senior Associate, Program and Business Development! Known for his expertise in MERL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning) and Knowledge Management, Nicholas brings a unique blend of skills in data analytics, adaptive management, and learning systems. He’s set to play a key role in bridging gaps within our program strategy and business development, fostering a culture of continuous learning and transforming insights into actionable, impact-driven strategies. When he’s not making each team member smile, Nicholas drives sustainable growth and ensures that our initiatives are built for long-term success.

Write to [email protected] | Development Dynamics | to book an appointment with us and let us make Impact together.