TY Danjuma Foundation

The TY Danjuma Foundation was honoured to participate in the 10th East Africa Philanthropy Conference (EAPC 2026), held from 16–20 June 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the theme “Anchoring Systems in an Era of Transition.”

As part of a high-level panel discussion on “Localisation, Legitimacy, and the Governance of Voice,” the Foundation joined development leaders and practitioners from across the continent to examine how governance systems, resource allocation, and decision-making processes can better reflect the priorities and aspirations of the communities they serve.

The discussion highlighted the importance of moving beyond local implementation towards approaches that strengthen local leadership, ownership, and accountability. Participants reflected on the persistent gap between global commitments and the realities of financing and decision-making within the development sector, underscoring the need for more inclusive and equitable systems.

Drawing on its experience supporting community-driven development initiatives across Nigeria, the TY Danjuma Foundation shared insights on the value of investing in local institutions, fostering trusted partnerships, and creating opportunities for communities to actively participate in shaping solutions to the challenges they face.

Gima Forje, the Chief Executive Officer of the TY Danjuma Foundation joined distinguished panellists from across Africa to share the Foundation's journey and lessons learned in advancing sustainable, locally led development. The exchange provided a valuable platform for learning, collaboration, and strengthening connections with philanthropic and development actors across the region.

The conversations at EAPC 2026 reaffirmed that sustainable development outcomes are most effective when communities are not only beneficiaries of interventions but active participants in defining priorities, influencing decisions, and driving change.

The TY Danjuma Foundation remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen local capacity, promote community ownership, and contribute to resilient systems that improve lives and livelihoods.