Contributions of the Nonprofit Sector to African Economies: Research Findings Validation Workshop
The Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at Wits Business School, University of the Witwatersrand, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is convening a Validation Workshop in Dakar to consider findings from a continental initiative that seeks to advance the understanding of the contribution of the non-profit sector towards creating access to dignified and fulfilling work for young Africans. The workshop comes at a critical time as African countries continue to grapple with persistent youth unemployment, inequality and limited access to sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Drawing on insights from a five-year multi-country research project spanning 17 African countries, namely Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe, the study provides one of the most comprehensive examinations of the non-profit sector’s role in youth employment on the continent. By focusing on the lived realities of young people, particularly those experiencing marginality, the project seeks to generate evidence that reflects diverse contexts and informs inclusive development pathways.
The Dakar validation workshop focuses on the quantitative phase of the research project and provides a platform for presentation and validation of preliminary findings from a large-scale survey conducted across the participating countries. By bringing together government representatives, youth organisations, non-profit actors, researchers, private sector stakeholders and development partners, the workshop aims to assess the accuracy, relevance and contextual interpretation of the findings. This participatory validation process strengthens the credibility of the research while ensuring alignment with policy and practice priorities across Africa.
Beyond validation, the workshop serves as a space for dialogue, collaboration and co-creation. It builds on earlier engagements held in Kigali, Accra and Mombasa, where youth and stakeholders contributed to shaping the research framework and identifying key challenges and opportunities within regional contexts. Through this process, the project has developed a strong foundation for understanding youth employment dynamics and the role of the non-profit sector in addressing them.
The project goes beyond analysis; it is a call to action aimed at elevating the visibility and recognition of the non-profit sector as a critical contributor to African economies. By generating robust, evidence-based insights, the project seeks to influence policy, strengthen sector engagement and support the development of more inclusive and sustainable employment pathways for young people. With a focus on dignity, fulfilment and long-term impact, the project contributes to a broader vision of an Africa where young people are empowered to thrive.
This initiative marks an important step in reshaping how youth employment is understood and addressed across the continent. By strengthening evidence, fostering collaboration and amplifying diverse voices, the project contributes towards building a more inclusive, resilient and opportunity-driven future for African youth.
