The role of civil society cannot be overemphasized in achieving sustainable development as well as promoting good governance and freedom in the society, which makes development is essence participatory. [1] As a major stakeholder within the civil society space, think tanks play a vital role in fostering informed decision-making through evidence-based research and hence critical recommendations which help in shaping policies.
As such, empowering independent voices of think tanks has proven to be a useful lever of development across the globe, as they engage in advocacy and offer alternative development policies to governments, private sectors, international governmental or specialized institutions among others. [2] With this in mind, the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation’s independent think tank, Nkafu Policy Institute, is spearheading the Central Africa Think Tank Forum in its second edition come August 21, through 22, 2024 on the theme : “Empowering Independent Voices in the Central African Region” at Djeuga Palace Hotel in Yaoundé-Cameroon.
“Africa produces less than 1% of global research output. Meanwhile, African countries face some of the toughest challenges worldwide, most of which can only be tackled through robust and efficient research”. Consequently, majority of policy decisions within Africa and the relevant development partners are made without substantial input from local or regional providers of knowledge and the Nkafu Policy Institute seeks to change this narrative.
Featuring think tank leaders, civil society organizations, funders, development partners, and researchers that matter in the civil society landscape, the overall aim of this forum is to empower independent voices from the Central African region by enhancing the capacity of individual think tanks to increasingly stand out as go-to research centers in their respective fields of expertise. More to this, having a strong, empowered voice is essential for success in any field. It is strongly believed this initiative will help think tanks in the Central African region communicate ideas more effectively, build sustainable relationships, and increase their self-confidence. It will also go a long way in breaking long-held stereotypes, unconscious biases, misconceptions as well as toxic belief systems defined by societal rules and governments about the role of think tanks in this part of the continent. This will not only foster meaningful connections, but also set the stage for more impactful communication while amplifying diversity of thought.
This second edition of the Central Africa Think Tank Forum is tailored to address challenges facing think tanks in Central Africa during specific thematic plenary sessions and panel discussions, with key presentations and policy recommendations by renowned international development experts across the globe. More to this, participants will have the opportunity to share experiential knowledge in narrowed thematic workshops to practically boost their capacities, alongside round table discussions, case studies designed to learn best practices, and pitching sessions.
As we launch the countdown to this important forum, our eyes are cast into the future, with growing expectations to actively contribute to building a dynamic civil society. See you there!
Ayukmba Nkonghonyor, Senior Communications Manager
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