The need for high net-worth individuals (HNIs) and philanthropists in the diaspora to contribute in Africa’s development has become critical as international funding to African civil society organisations (CSOs) dwindles. However, alternative approaches to sustain and propel the continent’s development call for a commitment to building trust and ensuring accountability.
To explore the potential of impactful philanthropy driven by trust and accountability, the Ford Foundation Office of West Africa (OWA) and PaTiTi Consulting engaged high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), philanthropists and development experts in a forum – the African Diaspora Philanthropy Dialogues in Houston, USA. The event focused on how collaboration, trust and accountability can support development work in Nigeria and across Africa.
The dialogues highlighted the significant contributions of the African diaspora to family and individuals back home, with data from the first quarter of 2024 showing that over US$286million was sent to Nigeria, surpassing the combined contributions from international development organisations like the Ford Foundation and MacArthur Foundation to local philanthropy initiatives.
The forum also addressed challenges of harnessing diaspora contributions to create a lasting impact. Dr. ChiChi Aniagolu-Okoye, Regional Director-Ford Foundation OWA and convenor of the dialogues, called on African diasporans to rethink their approach to giving. “The situation in Nigeria is dire,” she stated, “and the traditional support from international partners is dwindling due to global crises.”
Now, more than ever, it is crucial for Africans in the diaspora to strategically support and invest in development initiatives back home. She emphasised that the call for strategic philanthropy is not just about sending money to Africa but also about contributing to a more sustainable continent by addressing systemic issues.
Dr. Ayo Ajim, keynote speaker and co-founder of the Grace Emergency Room, stated that while diasporans are committed to philanthropy in Africa, barriers such as lack of accountability and corruption remain major hurdles. He called for reforms in initiatives that support local development work in Africa.
“The needs back home are enormous and our involvement in philanthropic giving can create tangible change in our communities, leaving a legacy for future generations,” he remarked.
He also encouraged HNIs to contribute to local philanthropy initiatives in Africa through their business foundations to receive the necessary tax exemptions under law in the United States of America. This, he believes, will build their businesses, providing necessary funds to further invest in the African philanthropy landscape.
Daniel Chigbu J. Esq., a lawyer and panellist at the event, stressed the need for due diligence and careful selection of partners. He applauded the Ford Foundation’s offer to match funding for selected projects, highlighting that this crucial step will build confidence among potential donors.
“When people are assured that their contributions will be used effectively, it spurs further giving and attracts other networks to get involved,” he said. The dialogues emphasised the importance of building trust through transparency and collaboration with credible local CSOs, with participants renewing their commitment to support local development by learning from best practices across the world.
