The 2026 APN Assembly will provide a safe space and a platform for delegates from Africa and around the world to meet, share experiences, new knowledge and collectively engage with issues of agency faced by African communities.
Communities experience complex and intersectional problems that pose not only direct challenges to an African philanthropy arena that uses a fragmented approach to enduring said challenges. The Assembly seeks to explore the responsiveness of African philanthropy practices, and policies. The Assembly is designed to understand key questions of our time around which we could have impact.
Participants will have the opportunity to celebrate what is working, share new ideas and practical solutions, and set an agenda for tackling our continent’s most pressing challenges using philanthropy as a durable strategy for transformation.
In an era defined by rapid technological evolution, shifting societal expectations, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions, philanthropy support organizations and communities are increasingly called upon to adapt and innovate. The theme for this year’s Assembly, “African Philanthropy in Action: Adopt, Advance, Amplify,” captures the dynamic process of embracing change, driving progress, and expanding impact across sectors and disciplines.
The “Adopt, Advance, Amplify” Assembly sub-themes are a call to action for leaders, practitioners, and changemakers to move beyond passive acceptance and actively drive transformation. Through shared learning and collaboration, the Assembly aims to equip participants with the tools and inspiration to adopt innovation, advance their work, and amplify their positive influence in the world.
a. Adopt: Emphasizes openness to new ideas, technologies, and approaches. It focuses on recognizing opportunities, overcoming resistance, and integrating innovations into existing systems. “Adopt” challenges participants to reflect on what needs to change in their organizations or fields and how to embrace those changes effectively.
b. Advance: Moving beyond adoption, “Advance” focuses on deepening and scaling innovations. This stage emphasizes capacity building, continuous improvement, and the pursuit of excellence. It underscores the need for ongoing learning, strategic investment, and fostering environments that support progress.
c. Amplify: Focuses on broadening the reach and impact of successful initiatives. This includes sharing best practices, leveraging partnerships, and using platforms and networks to inspire broader change. “Amplify” invites participants to consider how their advances can benefit broader communities and contribute to systemic transformation.
Read more: