Building and strengthening ecosystems of community-based philanthropic organisations

Originally posted on The Alliance Magazine blog: https://www.alliancemagazine.org/blog/building-and-strengthening-ecosystems-of-community-based-philanthropic-organisations/

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In response to growing regulatory pressures and global aid cuts, we have been involved in a philanthropy ecosystems approach to build resilience across Africa. In partnership with community philanthropy organisations (CPOs) in Malawi and Zimbabwe, we have supported the formation of national networks of CPOs, laying the groundwork for locally led, sustainable development.

These networks—established with support from WINGs’ LiftUpPhilanthropy Fund—are catalyzing collaboration, resource mobilisation, and advocacy. By integrating CPOs into platforms like AfricaGiving, offering fundraising and sustainability training, and tracking regulatory shifts through the Ease of Doing Philanthropy Index, we aim to help communities navigate challenges and unlock indigenous solutions.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to shift from donor dependency to locally owned development infrastructure—strengthening the ecosystem for community philanthropy across Southern Africa and beyond.