Christopher Douglas

🌍 Just finished watching Sharon Telewa's TED Talk/Webinar, and I'm truly inspired by the depth of insight she brings to the table. Sharon's career in technology for development, particularly in her native Kenya, sheds light on a narrative often overlooked in mainstream discourse. Her transition to Germany unveiled a startling reality: many were oblivious to the technology revolution sweeping across the African continent. Sharon's talk is a powerful call to challenge these stereotypes head-on. Through compelling examples drawn from her own experiences, she vividly illustrates how technology solutions are not just advancing, but profoundly transforming lives across Africa. What struck me most is Sharon's unwavering belief in the potential of young Africans to shape the continent's future. She doesn't just highlight the problems but offers tangible ideas on how we can support and empower these future leaders. This talk is a testament to the boundless ingenuity and resilience found within Africa's innovation ecosystem. It's a reminder that progress knows no bounds and that the narrative of Africa is one of promise and possibility. Let's amplify Sharon's message, challenge outdated perceptions, and rally behind the visionaries driving change on the continent. This isn't just about technology; it's about fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and brighter future for all. Join the conversation and be part of the movement for positive change. #TechForAfrica #Innovation #Empowerment #InspiringTalks 🚀🌍

5

2 Comments

UPDATES: food for thought, despite some exciting innovation trends taking place in #Africa, the continent continues to be in the periphery, whilst others are in the centre. It's worth reading Joseph Stiglitz's (2002) "Globalisation and its discontents" It perfectly articulates the present situation of Africa's development. The impact of neo-liberalism and if one is familiar with the concept of African-Renaissance, it covers the importance of African nations requiring a new development model to achieve innovation and stability. However, the weakness of African-Renaissance is, it continues to advocate for another form of neo-liberalism, based on the principles of modernisation theory of development (which has been discredited since the 1980s). Paul Goncharoff Stefan Demetz Alexandra Tchomte Ibrahim S. #Neoliberalism #development #politicaleconomy #globaleconomy #innovation #afcfta #asia #asean #BRICS #freetrade #globalisation #southamerica #latinamerica #caribbean #afrique

2

We are all seeking refuge and we must all help each other find it. Help by seeding gardens of those facing floods in Nairobi and Turkana - and grow your own gardens through #CommitmentPooling https://lnkd.in/dQqFs8Yw Grassroots Economics

21

3 Comments

Engaging in conversations with organizations in Kenya has been eye-opening, highlighting the need for donors to reconsider how aid is administered. Donors expect accountability and evidence of impact. However, focusing on processes allows for a more nuanced understanding of what works and what doesn’t. It enables continuous learning and adaptation, ensuring that aid programs evolve based on real-world feedback and changing conditions. By emphasizing processes, donors can contribute to building local capacities. Instead of merely providing resources, they can help develop local institutions, governance structures, and skills, leading to more resilient and self-sufficient communities. #DevelopmentAid #SustainableDevelopment #ImpactVsProcess #AidEffectiveness #CapacityBuilding #LongTermImpact #CommunityDevelopment #DevelopmentProcesses #SustainableAid #LocalEmpowerment

27

I was invited by Prof Bheki Moyo who leads the Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment - CAPSI to share some of my thoughts on why (South) African #philanthropy needs to mainstream #climatechange into their impact strategies, and how they can do so while deepening (rather than changing) their priorities. Our biggest climate risks are not just about the weather "out there," but about material challenges like food security, health and education outcomes, economic security and sustainability, mobility and migration, good governance and accountability...you get my point...

19

1 Comment

It's that time once more! We're embarking on a journey to Rwanda and Uganda to connect with as many members of the Village Savings and Loans groups as we can. Our purpose is to directly hear from those we serve about how this program is impacting their annual income. We're also interested in identifying any challenges hindering their progress. By working together in real-time, we can find solutions to overcome any obstacles. Stay tuned for special updates from our travels in the coming weeks! #sustainabledevelopment #socent #sustainableincome #endpoverty #alleviatepoverty #economicempowerment #socialenterprise #socialimpact #cooperative #cooperatives #farmers #microloans #revolvingfunds #vsla #VillageSavingsandLoans #empowerwomen #empoweringwomen #nonprofit #nonprofits #changemaker #changemakers #rwanda #uganda #africa

24

6 Comments

78% of respondents in a recent survey of organizations receiving foundation funding in Africa reported obstacles to scaling. This is a big deal if we want to shift to more locally led development. The top three obstacles reported? 🔹 Technology, systems, and processes 🔹 Skilled Staff 🔹 Access to Infrastructure To pivot to, and sustain, a new development paradigm, funders will need to also invest in the capacity infrastructure and ecosystem around their partners, while also investing in their missions. These development leaders want to scale. They have the technical expertise. They are embedded in their communities. They need more unrestricted funding. And, they are also saying--they need a better enabling environment. #Development #Africa #Scaling #Funding

14

1 Comment

Exactly! #Localsolutions #institutionaldonors #funding #communitybased #philanthropy “Community-based organizations can go where outside organizations can’t, and funding must be shifted to amplify their work to reach the world’s most vulnerable populations. When provided the proper resources and trust, locally-led organizations can deliver more effectively than international actors. This is true from a cost perspective, too. One study estimated that local organizations can deliver programming that is 32% more cost-efficient than international organizations, by stripping out expensive international salaries and overheads. The challenge is creating the right funding channels, building the capacity of local organizations to tap into these channels, and putting the right safeguards in place. These are all solvable problems, worth investing in.”

6

Exciting New Book Release Announcement I am excited to announce my upcoming book, “Àgbám Úmé: The African Child, Resilience and Climate Crisis.” This is not merely a book; Àgbám Úmé transports you into a world where resilience, innovation, and a profound connection to the earth weave a compelling narrative. It is a real-life tale etched with the scars of struggle and the brilliance of triumph. Àgbám Úmé, written by me Uche Isieke, and forewords by Professor U. Joy Ogwu and Mr. Patrick Worms, challenges us to look beyond our immediate surroundings and consider the broader implications of our actions on the environment and society. This story is not just a beacon of hope; it is a roadmap, demonstrating how dedication, wisdom, and a deep love for one’s community can create a sustainable and prosperous future. The book represents a compelling journey into the heart of Africa, where enduring traditions interface with the challenges of the 21st century. Indigenous African women, even more resilient and tenacious, are celebrated for their invaluable contributions to sustainable land management. Amid the global climate challenges that threaten our capacity to respond systematically, Àgbám Úmé serves as a practical guide and inspiration for young people all over the world to initiate alternative approaches to climate action. The book aims to raise a conscious community, both old and young, that does not wait solely on anyone or the government for change but a people better prepared and equipped to drive transformative change by themselves. Àgbám Úmé is a story of resilience, a tribute to ingenuity, and a testament to the power of community-driven change. Pre-order your copy today and join a movement towards a sustainable and prosperous future: https://lnkd.in/dHHtFPxy Global EverGreening Alliance UNDP G20 Global Land Initiative UN Convention to Combat Desertification DOC SOCIETY Global Greengrants Fund Rural Watch Africa Initiative - RUWAI Our African Climate Story African Climate Stories Climate Stories #ComingSoon #BookRelease #MustRead #AgbamUme #UcheIsieke #Resilience

3

2 Comments

Hey there! Just wanted to share some new insights happening in the tobacco industry in Malawi especially now that more people and the global community are becoming health-conscious and policies are being put in place to reduce tobacco consumption, or regulate it more. Because of this and many more factors we can expect some changes in demand. So interesting to see how things evolve, especially for countries like Malawi that have a strong historical root to the production and business of tobacco, right? Although the industry is faced with a number of pressures and challenges it is important to note that the tobacco growing and processing is a legal industry that still contributes to a livelihood of many with an estimated 355,582 workers across 174,923 households being employed in the sector. I myself am a proud son of a tobacco farmer whose benefited from this enterprise, with my father having being able to supplement his income to take care of not only his six children but also support his extended family. So, Yes the livelihood contribution of this crop can not be over exaggerated although from one side the impact of this crop on our lives and the live of my family was good, the other side is it can be debated. Based on a recent 2024 ILO report Survey on Tenant Growers in Malawi’s tobacco industry | ILO, workers -farmers in the tenancy system are identified as being at a heightened risk of forced labor. WHY? have a look at this interesting report What is or was tenancy labour......... Disclaimer: These are my opinions and views alone. Please have a read below

7

Black Female Entrepreneurs needed for Diaspora VC Research Project Research Objectives: 1.Critically analyse system biases and barriers within Venture Capital 2.Conduct primary research to investigate the systemic inequalities against Black Female Entrepreneur’s? 3.Formulate solutions and recommendations Introduction Venture capital is not a level playing field’. (British Business Bank, 2023). VC firms are the critical gatekeeper of technological innovation globally. ‘VC’s decide which new technologies and tech companies are worthy of funding’, (Kleinman,2021). Consequently, excluding marginalised groups in society from the opportunity to build generational wealth and better future for their offspring. Barriers to capital flow for black female entrepreneurs (BFE’s)report (2021) identified three ‘demand side barriers’, within the context of the investment pipeline. a)‘BFE’s access to existing investment instruments is difficult or not possible’. The contributing factors are poor financial literacy and access to financial instruments. The limited ‘access to quality education’ to study business or STEM subjects. Social and economic challenges like lack of generational wealth further compound these issues. b)‘Historical interactions discourage BFE’s from engaging with investors.’ Therefore, a resistance to dilute ownership of their company. c)‘BFE’s have limited ability to ‘bootstrap’ or access early-stage capital’. Contradictorily, bootstrapping is the only option. The Context -       the project is a university module called the live commercial project with Leeds Beckett University. However, I intend to start the fund independently from the university when I complete my studies in September. -       I must conduct primary research to validate the hypothesis; Is there a need for this for fund? And what ‘value creation’ do Black Female Founders desire in a VC Fund? 🔌 Participants needed Are you a Black Female Founder, with experience of VC fund raising? Whether you were successful or not, is no issue. I would love to interview you to substantiate the need for the new fund. Interview slots are available between the 12th – 26th of August 2024. At a flexible time between 8am – 10pm.  The Interviews are under 60mins and conducted remotely. 🔔 Contact me for participant information. And everyone, please share and comment below.  

2

Rwanda! I presented at the ICR Womens Economic Empowerment conference in Rwanda this week and let me show you what happens when you include women in all levels of decision making. Rwanda has gone from a place of sadness and destruction with the 1994 genocide, to 30 years later being a thriving, safe and inclusive society. Let me share some stats, 61% female represention in parliament, 50% representation of women in cabinet, 50% representation in judiciary, 34% majority shareholders of companies are women and the list goes on. If you want to transform economies don't keep beating the same drum. It's time for change and change means women in decision making roles PNG.

577

37 Comments

Coming soon: The May issue of The Marketplace magazine. Read about women's empowerment in Guatemala, Safi makes milk safer in East Africa, farmers talk about climate change, reflections of a serial entrepreneur, & looking back on when MEDA became a non-profit. #businesssolutionstopoverty #entrepreneurship #milk #agriculture #climatechange #MEDA

15

Across Africa, over 850 million people, primarily in rural areas, rely on traditional cooking solutions like open fires or rudimentary stoves. While seemingly simple, this reality has devastating consequences, especially for women and children. Indoor air pollution from these methods is a leading cause of respiratory illnesses, contributing significantly to pneumonia deaths in children under five. Women, who typically do the cooking, are also disproportionately affected. Transitioning to clean cookstoves and fuels can dramatically improve air quality, leading to healthier families and a stronger workforce. Collecting firewood can be a time-consuming and dangerous task, often taking women away from income-generating activities or education. Clean cooking solutions free up time, allowing women to pursue opportunities and contribute more to their communities. In addition, the clean cooking sector presents a wealth of economic possibilities, creating jobs in stove production, fuel distribution, and other clean energy initiatives. Clean cooking solutions promote responsible fuel use and can play a vital role in mitigating climate change. It's time to prioritize access to clean cooking to unlock a healthier, more prosperous future for millions of Africans. Let's work together to ensure everyone has access to this life-changing technology. Read the Op-Ed by Her Excellency, the First Lady of Kenya, Mama Rachel Ruto ahead of the Clean Cooking Summit in Africa. #CleanCookingSummit #SummitonCleanCookinginAfrica #CleanCooking #Africa #Health #ClimateChange #WomenEmpowerment #SustainableDevelopment https://lnkd.in/drJV9aTq

28

1 Comment

The Global Agriculture and Food Security Program Trust Fund (#GAFSP) has been one of Liberia’s strongest partners in the agricultural sector since its start. I have been privileged to feature in the #GAFSP funding rounds, on their discussion panels in the margins of World Bank annual meetings; and to tell the world of the Liberian experience. Further privileged when Liberia’s 2022 request for funding was granted, initially for a maximum of $5M but then expanded to $10M in May of 2023. The African Development Bank (#AfDB) has also scaled up its support to the agriculture sector through the management of the #GAFSP funding. Importantly, the #AfDB provided up to $5.2M for targeted Sector Budget Support, finally signed by the #GoL in June 2023. The greatest impact is felt when we are intentional about the directions of our funding. And when we focus our efforts on taking rice and cassava production to scale, with interventions throughout the value chain from seeds to plate. #GAFSP #AfDB #AfricanFoodSystems #MoALiberia #Green231

41

4 Comments

Rural Kenyans Thriving Economically Recent data reveals that rural Kenyans are experiencing faster economic growth compared to their urban counterparts. While inflation affects everyone, it disproportionately impacts rural communities due to lower incomes and higher spending on essentials like food, energy, and transportation. As a professional with expertise in growth management and operations, I’m passionate about sustainable development and contributing to positive change. Let’s connect! Derek Kigen https://lnkd.in/dYrnDRuT

2

Another reminder from The Associated Press of the importance foreign direct investment is to Africa. As the world continues its march toward sustainability and net-zero, many nations are getting left behind. There is a huge funding gap in Africa that must be solved if the continent and the world are to meet their lofty goals. I implore wealthier nations, intergovernmental organizations, the private sector, and individuals to make greater contributions to those nations struggling to keep up. https://lnkd.in/gzvExAQw #socent #sustainability #Africa

5

1 Comment