Our workblog

When the Systems Crumble: Reimagining Development through Collective Action

With urgent reflections like “the house is on fire,” the conversation cut through speculation to focus on action, how to rebuild with intention, equity, and local leadership at the center. From calls for radical solidarity to the importance of language and partnership, the dialogue emphasized one thing: the future of development lies in community-driven, collaborative, and context-aware systems.

Among the leading voices was Jacqueline Asiimwe, CEO of CivSource Africa, who passionately called for a shift from individualism to collective strength. Rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, "I am because we are", Jacqueline emphasized the power of local giving, community-led philanthropy, and re-centering African agency in development. Her insights reminded us that long before external aid, African communities had systems of resilience, generosity, and growth that sustained them, and those systems remain vital today.

Read more about the highlights HERE:

Watch full conversation HERE:

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Ednah Rebeccah
Who Moved My Donor? Navigating the New Philanthropy Landscape

Last week, CivFund joined colleagues from the East Africa Financial Resilience Resource Hub ; Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) and Foundation for Civil Society (FCS) to reflect on the evolving funding landscape for civil society. With shrinking civic space and shifting donor priorities, we explored ways to strengthen financial resilience, foster collaboration, and build sustainable funding models. At the heart of our discussions was one key question: How do we ensure civil society remains strong, independent, and impactful? The journey continues, guided by Ubuntu, "I am because you are."

Read reflections from our CEO, Jacqueline Asiimwe, on the three-day retreat HERE:

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Ednah Rebeccah
Reimagining HR in East Africa | Insights from the 6th East Africa HR Symposium

The 6th East Africa HR Symposium brought together HR leaders to explore the theme, “HR Reimagined: Building a Future-Proof Workforce with Technology & Human-Centric Practices.” CivSource Africa’s Mathias Nyombi proudly represented us at this transformative event, contributing to conversations on AI integration, inclusive workplaces, and employee wellbeing. Key takeaways included leveraging technology for efficiency, fostering diversity, and prioritizing mental health in the workplace.

Read More about how this event is reshaping HR practices in the region!

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Ednah Rebeccah
Seeing the Unseen, Telling the Untold

In a powerful keynote address at Thrive Africa’s inaugural Afrotellers conference, our CEO Jacqueline Asiimwe highlighted CivSource Africa’s journey in reshaping the conversation around African philanthropy through storytelling. Under the theme "Seeing the Unseen, Telling the Untold," she shared how our research, giving reports, gatherings of givers, a book of African proverbs on generosity, the comm-UNITY! podcast, and our photo exhibition all celebrate African generosity. Emphasizing that sharing these stories is a rights issue, she affirmed our commitment to making African philanthropy visible and embracing an Afrocentric perspective rooted in belief in Africa.

Catch Highlights HERE

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Ednah Rebeccah
Listening and Leading: The Art and Science of Peace, Resilience, and Transformational Justice

Our CEO Jacqueline Asiimwe participated in a prestigious international conference organized by Aegis Trust in Kigali, Rwanda. Titled “Listening and Leading: The Art and Science of Peace, Resilience, and Transformational Justice,” the event marked 30 years since Rwanda endured the genocide against the Tutsis, offering powerful insights into the country’s journey of reconciliation, resilience, and healing.

Through discussions on peace education, trauma recovery, the role of art, and both local and international justice, we at CivSource Africa contributed by emphasizing the power of culturally sensitive and dignified philanthropy, grounded in genuine love for humanity and the importance of active listening in advancing social justice.

Catch Highlights HERE and HERE

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Ednah Rebeccah
Local Philanthropists Share Inspiring Stories Of Giving!

Local philanthropists gathered at Ndere Centre to share inspiring stories of giving at the 5th annual Gathering of Givers event. Speakers like Esther Kalenzi of 40 Days Over 40 Smiles and Eligu Ronald of Touch the Slum Foundation shared personal journeys that sparked their philanthropic efforts. The event emphasized that giving isn't limited to wealth—it's about making a difference through sacrifice and compassion. Organized by CivSource Africa and Uganda National NGO Forum, the gathering encouraged young givers to continue impacting their communities.

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Ednah Rebeccah
NGOs Appeal For Tax Exemptions to Stimulate Local Philanthropy

At a recent symposium, NGOs in Uganda urged the government to provide tax exemptions for charitable organizations to stimulate local generosity. Organized by the Uganda National NGO Forum and CivSource Africa, the event highlighted the challenges NGOs face, including bureaucratic hurdles and high operational costs. CivSource Africa CEO, Jacqueline Asiimwe, emphasized the importance of documenting local philanthropic efforts to change the narrative that Uganda relies solely on foreign aid.

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Ednah Rebeccah
Celebrating Our Generous Spirit

The Gathering of Givers began as a vision inspired by community and generosity, evolving into Uganda’s most exciting giving festival. This year’s theme, Our Generous Spirit, highlights the power of young givers. Join us on September 28th at Ndere Center for a day of joy, reflection, and celebration of generosity in action.

We can’t wait to host you!

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Ednah Rebeccah
Journalists Urged to Amplify Stories of Community Giving

Journalists across Uganda are being encouraged to spotlight untold stories of generosity and community resilience. During the recent Face of Generosity event, media practitioners were urged to amplify narratives that celebrate philanthropy and inspire social change. The platform emphasized the pivotal role of storytelling in shaping perceptions around giving, with a call for journalists to explore deeper, often overlooked, local stories that showcase the power of community-driven generosity.

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Ednah Rebeccah
CSSI 2024: Power and Inclusion in Cross-Sector Social Interactions Symposium University of Cape Town, South Africa

CSSI 2024: This year’s symposium, hosted by the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business in partnership with The Partnering Initiative, PRME Chapter Africa, and the Embedding Project, focused on addressing racial, social, and economic inequalities through cross-sector collaboration. The event will featured thematic discussions, breakout rooms, and panel discussions, providing a platform for diverse scholars and practitioners to exchange knowledge and experience.

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Ednah Rebeccah
Thinking Legacy, Connecting Generations

At a deeply meaningful high tea event hosted by Hon Miria Matembe, we honored the legacies of the late Hon Joyce Mpanga and other revered leaders of the women's movement. Organized by CivSource Africa and Femme Forte, the event celebrated the contributions of women from different generations, from 81-year-old Hon Rtd Justice Mary Maitum to an inspiring 19-year-old activist, each sharing their visions for women's rights.

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Ednah Rebeccah