With global funding declining, what opportunities do African NGOs have to access local and regional funding sources in 2026?
Question submitted by: Charles Anyama, Purpose Rwanda, Rwanda
The decline in traditional international funding is undoubtedly creating challenges for many African NGOs. However, it is also encouraging organisations to look more seriously at opportunities closer to home.
Across Africa, we are seeing growing interest in local philanthropy, corporate social investment, family foundations, high-net-worth individuals and diaspora giving. Governments are increasingly looking for trusted partners to help deliver public services and development programmes. Regional businesses are investing more in sustainability, community engagement and social impact initiatives.
These trends create new opportunities for NGOs that are prepared to engage beyond the traditional donor landscape.
The most successful organisations in the coming years are likely to be those that diversify both their relationships and their income. Rather than relying solely on international grants, they will build partnerships with local businesses, engage philanthropists, explore earned-income opportunities, collaborate with governments and participate in regional networks. Sustainability is becoming less about finding the next donor and more about building a broad ecosystem of support.
The future for African NGOs is not simply about replacing Global North funding with local funding. It is about creating stronger, more diverse and more resilient pathways to support partnerships and opportunities.
(This answer was provided by Keith Kibirango, a fundraising and philanthropy expert, and Founder & Chief Executive of New Global Markets Consulting)
