THE DUALITY OF GIVING
Contemporary Perspectives on Formalised African Philanthropy
Summary
AgentsC has undertaken an extensive research project to study relatively ignored questions in the fundraising community: what motivates African philanthropists to give to charitable causes? And what can be learned from the unique motivations driving the culture of ubuntu within Africa?
In collaboration with Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières Southern Africa, we recognised the need to explore giving attitudes and behaviours on the continent, to better understand the dynamics of formalised African philanthropy.
African Philanthropy
African philanthropy corresponds with the practice of sharing your good fortune with your neighbours and your community.
Taken in this light, the Yoruba proverb, “Ile la ti n ko eso re ode,” (performing good deeds outside the home begins by learning good deeds inside the home) provides a new dimension to our understanding of African philanthropy.
This is mainly expressed through the concepts of ubuntu [I am because you are], harambee [pulling together], or ujamaa [equality and self-help] — ever-present forces in cultures across the continent.
Homegrown
The potential of raising resources within the local landscape, tapping into individual givers. From the middle class, but also mobilizing resources from communities themselves. And with that is really to dispel this notion that aid and resources for development work necessarily come from outside. And to build into the African spirit of giving.
Masego Madzwamuse, CEO
Southern Africa Trust
Global
Seeing needy people every day, many of them approach me asking for assistance. I therefore prioritize giving to our community. However, I have a habit of supporting at least one cause in every part of the world I visit or study in.
Ronaldine Taku Ankengfuet, Founder
Visionary Women for Development
Enabling
In South Africa, we have an enabling environment, in that you are free to set up a philanthropic foundation. But there is no tax incentive to do so. So, if you’ve got 500 million rand and you want to set up a foundation, you get nothing for putting that money away.
Shelagh Gastrow
Philanthropy Advisor
Responsive
The COVID-19 pandemic in the world and in Nigeria, in particular, has made it more apparent the urgent need to support the poorer communities in the country. Such help is indispensable for any nation to develop and emerge victorious during this world crisis.
Eyal Mesika, Founder
Mesika Brothers Foundation
