Strengthening knowledge systems for policy impact and institutional performance
Knowledge shapes how institutions design policy, implement programs, and deliver results.
Across Africa, research institutions, think tanks, and public organizations generate valuable insights. The effectiveness of these efforts depends on the ability to retain, share, and apply knowledge in decision-making processes.
Institutional performance depends on strong knowledge systems that connect evidence to action.
At ACBF, we strengthen Africa’s capacity to generate, manage, and apply knowledge in support of policy design and institutional effectiveness.
Our work contributes directly to Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals by advancing knowledge-driven development and strengthening evidence-based policymaking.
Where The Challenge Lies
Knowledge systems across Africa face structural and capacity constraints that limit influence.
Many policy research institutions face challenges in translating research into policy engagement. Weak knowledge systems reduce institutions’ ability to retain and apply lessons learned.
Limited collaboration among institutions slows knowledge exchange and innovation. Evidence generated by African institutions is often underutilized in policymaking processes.
These constraints affect policy outcomes. Limited use of evidence weakens policy design and reduces implementation effectiveness. Fragmented knowledge systems limit institutional learning and reduce the impact of research and analysis.
These challenges require coordinated efforts to strengthen knowledge systems and improve the use of evidence in decision-making.
What We Do Differently
These initiatives strengthen knowledge systems, promote collaboration, and improve the use of evidence across institutions.
ACBF strengthens knowledge systems through targeted capacity development, institutional support, and knowledge platforms.
How We Work: A Systems Active Approach
ACBF delivers knowledge management through integrated platforms and initiatives that strengthen institutional capacity and knowledge ecosystems. Key initiatives include:
Impact in Numbers
Across Africa, the program is delivering measurable results:
Participants convened annually through the Africa Think Tank Summit across more than 30 African countries.
Flagship knowledge products developed and disseminated, including the Africa Export Competitiveness Report and the Strategic Study on Factoring in Africa.
Policy and knowledge briefs produced on key development issues, including AfCFTA, taxation, illicit financial flows, SME finance, and inclusive growth
Practical Tools developed to support SME finance and access to working capital solutions.
Institutions supported to strengthen and institutionalize knowledge management frameworks
Country-level impact includes:
Benin, Ethiopia, Republic of Congo, Kenya, and Rwanda
Beyond institutional support, ACBF is also investing in system-wide enablers.
Beyond knowledge: enabling policy impact
This work is about more than producing research.
It is about enabling institutions to:
- Improve policy design through evidence-based analysis
- Strengthen institutional learning and knowledge retention
- Enhance collaboration across research and policy communities
- Support effective implementation of development priorities
In doing so, ACBF supports a shift from fragmented knowledge systems to integrated, action-oriented policy ecosystems.
