Dear Members,
As we step into the second quarter of 2026, April has been a defining month of momentum and intentional progress for the network. It has been a period marked by thoughtful preparation, strategic engagement, and a reaffirmation of the collaborative spirit that continues to shape philanthropy across our region, rooted in community, driven by trust, and sustained through collective action.
Key highlights this month have been the significant strides made toward the 10th East Africa Philanthropy Conference, as preparations move from visioning to execution. With the conference program now finalized, we are excited to present a robust and thoughtfully curated agenda designed to respond to the realities and opportunities shaping philanthropy today. This year’s program reflects the depth and diversity of conversations needed across the sector, bringing together practical insight, strategic reflection, and future-facing dialogue.
April also saw the continued rollout of the conference masterclass series, an important learning component that is already generating strong engagement across the ecosystem. These masterclasses are designed to move beyond theory into actionable institutional practice, equipping participants with practical tools to navigate emerging challenges in fundraising, governance, sustainability, and organizational transformation. The confirmation of an exceptional lineup of speakers and facilitators further strengthens the conference’s promise as a space for meaningful exchange, peer learning, and thought leadership.
Beyond conference preparations, our broader programmatic work has continued to advance capacity strengthening and knowledge exchange across the network. From refining tools that support community philanthropy diagnostics to creating learning spaces that encourage peer-to-peer engagement, we remain intentional about equipping institutions with the frameworks and insights needed to thrive in an increasingly dynamic philanthropic landscape.
As we look ahead to the months leading up to Addis Ababa, our focus remains on deepening collaboration, amplifying diverse voices, and ensuring that the 10th East Africa Philanthropy Conference serves not only as a convening platform but as a launchpad for ideas and partnerships that will shape the future of philanthropy in East Africa.
We invite you to stay engaged, contribute your perspective, and continue building this shared vision with us.
Read more about the conference here.
Join the women in Philanthropy CoP HERE.
Sincerely,
Evans Okinyi
CEO – East Africa
Philanthropy Network.
