The term “philanthropy” is not generally understood nor is it preferred in Africa, largely because it is not inclusive in its scope and reach. It is also viewed as too abstract and elite for most parts of the continent. The classical definition, and indeed the historical trajectory of philanthropy from the American and European contexts, does not fully encompass the nature and character of what in Africa can be likened to “philanthropy.” For this reason, the term is used cautiously in this chapter to capture practices in Africa that are widely recognized as forms of giving for the public good. Some scholars refer to this phenomenon as African philanthropy, while others describe it as philanthropy in Africa and/or philanthropy with African features.