Rethinking Aid, Philanthropy & the Future of African NGOs
Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa)
Leading the conversation for a more democratic, integrated, and sustainable West Africa
If it feels like the world is moving too fast to keep up, you’re not alone. One minute, we’re talking about AI?and the next, we’re dealing with the fallout from USAID’s funding freeze.
This past week, two key events highlighted a major challenge for African NGOs: survival without relying too much on foreign aid. At Dr. Kole Shettima’s 65th birthday symposium, speakers talked about the power of philanthropy in supporting democracy. The message was clear—African civil society needs to build its?financial strength.
At the same time, the USAID funding freeze has forced many NGOs to pause critical programs, showing just how risky it is to depend on foreign donors. With funding becoming more uncertain, it’s time to focus on local solutions—whether through philanthropy, partnerships, or other ways to keep important work going.
In this issue of Democracy Digest, we dive into what’s happening, why it matters, and how NGOs can become more financially independent. Let’s talk about what comes next.
Publications
Non-Governmental Organisations in Africa Can Survive Without Foreign Aid by Titilayo Olaniyan
African NGOs must reduce reliance on foreign aid by diversifying funding and fostering local partnerships for long-term sustainability. Read Here.
Civil Society in the Fight for Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria by Dorothy Fakrogha, aPHRi
Examine the crucial role civil society plays in advocating for funding, accountability, and equitable access to achieve Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria. Read Here.
Spotlight
The Role of Philanthropy in Strengthening Democracy in Africa
Friends and thought leaders gathered to celebrate Dr. Kole Shettima’s 65th birthday and his lasting impact on democracy and community support. The event was a heartfelt tribute to his work and a reminder of how local philanthropy can keep democratic values strong—especially as funding challenges grow.
During his keynote, Prof. E. Akwetey from IDEG Ghana stressed that building homegrown support is more important than ever. A lively panel discussion, led by Comrade Kayode Komolafe of ThisDay Newspaper, brought together voices like Hajiya Saudatu Mahdi, Hillary Ogbonna, Prof. M. J. Kuna, and Comrade Ngozi Iwere, who shared their thoughts on sustaining democracy through local action.
Dr.?John Kayode Fayemi?described Dr. Kole as a natural connector and a true humanitarian who leads with empathy. The event’s most touching moment came when?Dr Amina J. Mohammed (UN Deputy SG)?invited?young Amina Abubakar (Epitome Model Islamic Schools, Mararaba)?to share her dreams of becoming the next Amina Mohammed. She said,?"Dr Kole’s work puts our people at the centre—something we need now more than ever."
At a time when many NGOs are struggling with funding cuts, Dr. Kole’s lifelong commitment to philanthropy reminds us that?local support, strong networks, and future-focused leadership?are key to sustaining democracy in Africa.
Strengthening West Africa’s Fight Against Disinformation
On the 20th of February 2025, CDD-West Africa, in partnership with the ECOWAS Commission, brought together key stakeholders in Lagos to discuss how to combat disinformation and strengthen democracy in West Africa.
One key takeaway? Every country needs to assess its current efforts against disinformation. Knowing what works and what doesn’t will help develop stronger, long-term solutions. While regional collaboration is important, each country’s unique context must be considered—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Education and teamwork are critical. Journalists, policymakers, and community leaders need proper training to spot and stop false information. Rather than harsh regulations that could limit free speech, the goal should be to create a trustworthy information space that protects democratic values.
Cross-border collaboration is essential. Reaching communities in local languages and setting up fact-checking teams in key areas will help tackle misinformation at its source.
This is just the beginning. CDD-West Africa is committed to driving this effort forward and building strong partnerships for lasting change.
Write for the CDD-West Africa Blog!
Are you passionate about democracy, governance, human rights, or digital freedoms??CDD-West Africa is inviting external contributions to our blog!
We’re looking for?well-researched, evidence-based articles?(800–1,500 words) on topics like?democracy, elections, policy, digital rights, climate change, and peace-building.?Submissions should be analytical, engaging, and non-partisan.
How to Submit:
Original work only (AI-assisted content must not exceed 20%) Use clear, structured writing with hyperlinked citations Email submissions to Dengiyefa Angalapu at [email protected] with the subject: “Blog Submission – [Your Article Title]" Include a short bio (50–100 words)
See CDD-West Africa’s blog as a guide
What to Expect:
Review time: 10–14 business days Edits may be requested before publication Accepted articles will be published on our platform
?? We do not accept plagiarism, excessive AI-generated content, hate speech, misinformation, or self-promotional pieces.
Join the conversation and help shape the discourse on governance, policy, and social change!
Forecast
West Africa’s Shifting Landscape
With funding cuts, rising disinformation, and shifting politics, democracy and civil society in West Africa face major tests. NGOs must find new funding sources—local philanthropy, social enterprises, and innovative partnerships—to stay afloat.
Disinformation is a growing threat, especially with upcoming elections. While governments may tighten regulations, the real challenge is balancing security with free speech. Meanwhile, ECOWAS must navigate tensions between democratic and military-led governments, testing its role in regional stability.
Foreign aid models are evolving, with a push for African-led philanthropy to support civil society more sustainably. Technology will be key for advocacy and transparency, but digital freedoms remain under threat.
To survive and thrive, civil society must stay agile, strengthen networks, and rethink old strategies for a changing landscape.
Quiz
Test Your Knowledge!
How well do you understand the challenges shaping democracy, governance, and civil society in West Africa? From foreign aid dilemmas to the fight against disinformation, these issues impact the region’s future. Take our short quiz to see how much you know and gain new insights along the way!