EA Philanthropy Awards

East Africa Philanthropy Awards 2024
Celebrating Innovation and Impact in the Modern Era
Edit Content
The East Africa Philanthropy Awards (EAPA), hosted by the East Africa Philanthropy Network (EAPN), celebrates individuals and organizations whose philanthropic efforts have profoundly impacted society. These awards recognize various acts of philanthropy, from saving lives and instilling hope to paving the way for lifelong success, both locally and internationally. Rooted in principles of selflessness and goodwill, the awards aim to inspire others by showcasing the transformative power of giving.
Edit Content
Since the inaugural EAPA in 2012, which honored changemakers at the annual East Africa Grantmakers Conference (now the East Africa Philanthropy Conference), the awards have recognized outstanding contributions across several categories, including youth philanthropy, corporate philanthropy, community philanthropy, and faith-based philanthropy. Esteemed recipients such as Dr. Manu Chandaria, Safaricom Foundation, and Sitawa Wafula have left enduring legacies of positive change.
Edit Content
Recognizing the need to adapt to societal shifts and emerging opportunities, the EAPN is revising the award categories to reflect current trends and future aspirations in philanthropy. This evolution ensures that the awards remain at the forefront of honoring and inspiring philanthropic excellence in East Africa and beyond.
Award Categories
Edit Content

This award recognizes organizations or individuals who have effectively leveraged digital platforms and innovative methods to advance philanthropic initiatives. It celebrates creativity and the use of technology in driving awareness, raising funds and mobilizing communities for social causes.

Criteria:

o   Effective use of social media campaigns to promote causes.

o   Successful crowdfunding initiatives demonstrating significant engagement.

o   Innovative online platforms or apps developed for philanthropic purposes.

o   Creative fundraising strategies, such as gamified campaigns or virtual events.

o   Use of emerging technologies like AI and big data to enhance fundraising efforts.

o   Measurable impact of digital efforts and innovative methods on target communities.

Edit Content

This award honors entities that make investments aimed at generating both financial returns and positive social or environmental impacts. It recognizes efforts dedicated to environmental sustainability and climate action, celebrating initiatives focused on protecting natural resources, promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon footprints.

Criteria:

o   Investments that address social or environmental challenges.

o   Evidence of measurable social or environmental impact.

o   Sustainable and ethical investment practices.

o   Projects in renewable energy, conservation, and sustainable agriculture.

o   Demonstrable impact on environmental preservation and community education.

o   Long-term sustainability and scalability of the project.

Edit Content

This award acknowledges Community Foundations that have adopted innovative approaches such as impact investing to empower local communities through education, health, economic opportunities and capacity-building. It focuses on efforts that enhance the self-sufficiency and resilience of communities.

Criteria:

o   Community involvement and participatory approaches.

o   Programs that provide education, economic opportunities or healthcare.

o   Long-term impact on community development and self-reliance.

o   Evidence of capacity-building and empowerment.

Edit Content

Honoring young leaders under the age of 35, this award celebrates the contributions of youth who are driving significant philanthropic efforts. Young leaders bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to pressing social issues.

Criteria:

o   Leadership and initiative in philanthropic projects.

o   Innovation and creativity in addressing youth-related issues.

o   Impact on the community and engagement with peers.

o   Potential for future leadership and continued contribution to philanthropy.

Edit Content

This award honors businesses with exemplary CSR programs that have made a positive impact on society. It recognizes companies that integrate social responsibility into their core business strategies and practices.

Criteria:

o   Integration of CSR into business operations and strategy.

o   Employee engagement and volunteerism.

o   Tangible benefits to the community and environment.

o   Transparency and accountability in CSR activities.

Edit Content

This award recognizes outstanding reporting and coverage of philanthropic actions in the region. It celebrates champions and promoters of giving practices through the media.

Criteria:

o   Quality of coverage.

o   Impact on public awareness.

o   Promotion of giving practices.

Edit Content

This award honors visionary leaders and philanthropists who have made extraordinary contributions to the community and the development of philanthropy in East Africa.

Criteria:

o   Lifetime achievements in philanthropy.

o   Long-term impact on community development.

o   Inspirational leadership and vision.

Edit Content

This is a special recognition determined by the jury for exceptional philanthropic contributions from all the received nominations.

Criteria:

o   Outstanding contributions not covered by other categories.

o   Exceptional impact on the community.

o   Inspirational and innovative efforts in philanthropy.

  • The Innovative and or unique approaches towards fundraising, implementation and community involvement in the projects 
  • Amounts of time, money or skills put into such projects
  • Project sustainability frameworks
  • The story behind the philanthropic effort
  • The impact of the philanthropic initiatives
  • For established institutions – registration details, audited accounts, governance structures and tax compliance
Geographical Coverage

The award covers the East African countries namely Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia.

Timelines for the 2024 East Africa Philanthropy Awards
Eapn Timeline
GALA DINNER

The East Africa Philanthropy Awards gala dinner will be held on 6th December, 2024 in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Rwanda.

THE AWARD

In addition to the award, which is drawing from and designed to reflect the African spirit of community action and ubuntu, each awardee will get—

(a) A 50% subsidised membership registration fee;
(b) a one-year 50% subsidy to all EAPN national and regional fee-paying activities;
(c) Publicity in our virtual, physical and online platforms; and
(d) Story-telling and branding opportunities within the network and partner activities.