In collaboration with the African Union Commission, we organized workshops from July 1 to Aug. 8, 2025, in Lesotho, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, with funding from Global Affairs Canada and technical support from the Global Green Growth Institute and the AliDouglas Development Consultancy.
These workshops form part of ACBF’s Climate Change and Energy for Productive Use program, which helps African countries design and launch bankable projects that drive climate adaptation and promote green growth.
The initiative advances the goals of Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous, resilient and sustainable Africa. It builds the capacity of institutions and communities to access and manage climate finance, tackling the urgent climate challenges that heavily affect developing nations and vulnerable populations.
It also supports Aspiration 1 of Agenda 2063, focused on inclusive growth, natural resource management and environmental sustainability. At the same time, it aligns with Aspiration 7, which seeks to position Africa as a resilient and influential global player.
The sessions brought together government institutions, civil society, academia, and private sector actors.
They equipped participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools to mobilise and deliver climate finance in an inclusive and gender-responsive manner.
In each of the five countries, the workshops adapted AU-GRAP’s five thematic pillars to national policies, investment priorities, and institutional frameworks.
Training modules were tailored using each country’s Climate Needs Assessment and combined in-person facilitation with expert-led virtual sessions.
More than 300 participants attended, including senior officials, municipal authorities, women’s networks, universities, youth representatives, and think tanks.
Pre- and post-training evaluations showed average knowledge improvements of between 23 and 32 percent, with the highest gains in green urban infrastructure and water systems, climate finance architecture and instruments, and climate-smart agriculture.
These sessions created momentum for national ownership of climate solutions grounded in equity, evidence, and innovation,
Dr. Nqobizitha Dube
AU-GRAP Capacity Training Lead
Participants left with stronger capacity to develop bankable projects, apply nature-based solutions, and integrate gender considerations into financing strategies.
Participant Voices
In Rwanda, the training struck a chord with those working directly in water resource management.
It was a response to our demands during the country diagnostic, and we are very pleased to discuss climate finance, which is a big question at this time,
We reviewed some of our obvious mistakes and misunderstandings, and it was very clear how to improve. In the future, we would like even more on-the-job exercises to mature project ideas to the point where they can bring real momentum, rather than being abandoned for lack of clarity,” he added.
Musana Segatagara Bernard
Head of the Knowledge and Forecasting Hub Department at the Rwanda Water Resources Board
For others, the workshops offered a rare blend of theory and action. “It was really interesting, insightful, and very practical,
They broke down the climate finance architecture, proposal development, donor expectations, and how to actually get into it. My recommendation is a continuation of such trainings, maybe through a community of practice where we exchange findings and support each other,” she said.
Nathalie Neema
Technical Advisor for Project Management and Stakeholder Engagement at GIZ Rwanda
Country Spotlight
In Lesotho, participants in Maseru engaged in highly participatory sessions that covered the full range of AU-GRAP themes. The training concluded with the co-creation of a roadmap to integrate climate finance into the country’s national recovery strategy, ensuring alignment with long-term development goals.
Namibia’s workshop in Windhoek reflected the country’s green hydrogen ambitions and built on the work of the Environmental Investment Fund. Sessions demonstrated how national institutions can successfully access resources from the Green Climate Fund and the Adaptation Fund, while strengthening local capacity for climate finance planning.
In Rwanda, the sessions in Kigali leveraged the country’s pioneering experience with FONERWA and its advances in urban resilience. Participants examined energy transitions, the integration of indigenous knowledge, and climate-smart zoning tools to strengthen both urban and rural systems.
Senegal’s training in Dakar brought together civil society organisations, academia, and local authorities. Discussions centred on inclusive governance for nature-based solutions and institutional audits for reform, key priorities for the country’s Green Cities programme and its urban, rural development corridors.
The final workshop in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, showcased strong government ownership of the AU-GRAP process. Stakeholders analysed the national climate finance landscape, from institutions such as FONSTI and CNCE to the integration of green priorities into the Plan National de Développement 2021–2025.
Corporate Voices Show Interest
Richard Ndungutse, CEO of Nano Ion Company Limited in Rwanda, attended at the invitation of the Ministry of Environment. Ndungutse commended the initiative and suggested that it should be expanded to different countries to give capacity to more institutions.
I have benefited a lot from this training because they gave us the perspective on how to seek funds for environmental protection and design projects that attract funders.
We hope to partner with these organisations because they have so much experience to share.
Richard Ndungutse,
CEO of Nano Ion Company Limited in Rwanda
According to Seyram Agemenya, ACBF Programme Coordinator, the workshops are part of a broader vision to transform Africa’s climate finance landscape. Each country emerged from the training with a national roadmap, forward-looking plans that align AU-GRAP’s thematic pillars with national development priorities. These roadmaps are expected to inform engagement with the Green Climate Fund, Adaptation Fund, and bilateral donors.
Participants joined a growing AU-GRAP alumni network, coordinated by ACBF, to foster cross-country exchange and mentorship. AU-GRAP partners plan to deepen this work through thematic webinars on proposal writing, monitoring and evaluation systems, and gender-responsive policy reform, as well as South–South learning exchanges and the publication of a practitioner-focused knowledge series.
This is just the beginning of engagement with country-level stakeholders around climate finance and the development of multiple programmes. Climate expert teams have been set up in all five countries to lead the implementation of the roadmaps developed during the training,
While we have started with five countries, there is an opportunity to expand these trainings to more countries so that African nations are well equipped and working towards climate action on the continent, Agemenya added.
Seyram Agemenya
ACBF Programme Coordinator
The AU-GRAP, which runs from 2021 to 2027, is a continent-wide framework designed to support Africa’s COVID-19 recovery while advancing climate resilience, green growth, and sustainable development.
We are building capacity and shaping institutions that can lead Africa’s green recovery on their own terms
Mr. Prabhakar Vanam
Lead facilitator for institutional frameworks
Participant Voices
In these testimonial videos, participants shared insights on the value of the workshop and lessons drawn from the training:
Thirteen African think tanks came together in Johannesburg, South Africa, from July 16 to 18, 2025, for the Capacity Development for Structural Transformation (CADAST) Design Thinking Workshop, which provided support for policy research and trade analysis.
Convened and organized by the African Capacity Building Foundation with support from the African Development Bank, the workshop focused on discussing and validating the results of organizational capacity assessments of selected think tanks.
The aim was to strengthen their research and policy capacities so they can play a stronger role in advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The workshop introduced a design thinking approach that enabled participants to identify institutional gaps, generate practical solutions and explore new ways of collaborating.
With its emphasis on capacity development and peer learning, CADAST project is equipping African institutions to deliver the evidence and innovation needed to guide the continent’s policy agenda.
Think Tanks Highlight Workshop Value
As you understand, the African Continental Free Trade Area has opened a big market for African countries to benefit. And I think for them to benefit, there is also need for research to inform policies on how countries in Africa can opt to participate
Dr. Gibson Chigumira
Dr. Gibson Chigumira, Executive Director of the Zimbabwe Economic Policy Analysis and Research Institute (ZEPARI) highlighted the policy relevance.
He said the workshop “opened up a number of areas that we can enhance our research and also collaborate among ourselves as think tanks to be able to inform the policy processes within AfCFTA.”
ZEPARI is an autonomous think tank established in 2003 that produces applied economic policy analysis and builds capacity to promote evidence-based policymaking in Zimbabwe.
The institute engages with government, civil society, and the private sector to ensure policies respond to national development priorities.
Dr. George Lutomia, Research Mentor, representing the Executive Director of the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) emphasized the knowledge exchange. KIPPRA is a public institute established in 1997 that provides research, advisory services, and capacity building to improve public policy in Kenya. It works with national and county governments, state corporations and other stakeholders, and is widely known for producing the Kenya Economic Report.
We have learned a lot about what we can do as think tanks in Africa and in our respective regions, so that eventually the outcomes and outputs can advance development for our countries and our continent.
We shall be able to disseminate not only to our countries but also through our networks so that those who may not have attended will benefit and make a difference in their countries as well.
Dr. George Lutomia
Prof. Fortunata Sangora Makene, Executive Director of the Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF) in Tanzania, highlighted the workshop’s networking value. ESRF is an independent policy research Think Tank established in Tanzania for the purposes of undertaking research and providing evidence to support economic management process in Tanzania. Founded in 1992, it works closely with government, the private sector, civil society and development partners to improve decision-making and national development outcomes
They undertook this analysis of think tanks to identify the areas where our capacities can be strengthened, and where targeted interventions can help ensure, these institutions truly thrive.
Beyond that, there will also be dedicated research in a domain that is vital to many of our countries—supporting the AfCFTA in delivering on its mandate.
Prof. Fortunata Sangora Makene
Building Momentum for Collective Impact
The CADAST project is helping these institutions turn assessment results into concrete capacity-strengthening plans, ranging from improved dissemination of research findings to stronger policy engagement and expanded regional collaboration.
The project also builds on the ACBF’s broader support to African think tanks through initiatives such as the annual Africa Think Tank Summit.
Upcoming initiatives, including the 2025 Africa Think Tank Summit planned for 8-10 October in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, will sustain this momentum by focusing on critical issues such as taxation, domestic resource mobilization and policy coherence, further strengthening the role of African think tanks in shaping effective policy solutions for sustainable development.
Dr. Lutomia encouraged wide participation, noting that the summit will be an opportunity “for all think tanks and partners who are keen on seeing how Africa can grow to come together and move as one team.”
Dr. Chigumira also underlined the relevance of the theme on taxation and resource mobilization, calling it essential for addressing Africa’s fiscal constraints.
Through CADAST and the partnerships driving it, African think tanks are building the knowledge, networks and policy influence needed to ensure the African Continental Free Trade Area delivers tangible benefits for the continent’s citizens.
The CADAST project addresses critical systemic challenges in macroeconomic governance, regional integration, and climate-resilient policy frameworks.
It aims to accelerate Africa’s progress toward the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals by strengthening national and regional institutions through analytical tools, technical expertise, and collaborative platforms.
Watch Participant Reflections
In testimonial videos, participants share insights on the value of the dialogue and lessons drawn from peer collaboration:
The Leadership Excellence in Africa’s Public Sector program, known as LEAPS, is shaping a new generation of African public officials who lead with integrity, collaboration, and strategic insight.
Designed and delivered by the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) through its Ubora Academy, this six-month capacity development initiative is redefining public service leadership across six African countries, including Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Ivory Coast.
LEAPS provides practical leadership training designed to strengthen the foundations of governance through ethical, accountable and visionary leadership.
With over 79 senior public officials already participating, the program marks a significant step toward equipping public institutions with the capacity to manage reforms, deliver services and respond to complex economic, digital and social challenges.
Each participant joins a six-month journey centered around five core areas: understanding African leadership challenges, building self-awareness, managing teams, driving strategic change and leading across institutional ecosystems.
The program is going to enhance our delivery and leadership capabilities,
Jacob Muimi
ICT Specialist at the Public Financial Management Secretariat in Kenya’s National Treasury.
He emphasized that a better understanding of self comes before effective leadership of others. Muimi views the training as vital for driving digital transformation and sees it supporting reforms by strengthening transparency and accountability.
A Learning Journey Rooted in Practice and Real-World Application
Participants engage in coaching, expert-led seminars and collaborative case studies that allow them to test ideas and apply lessons within their country contexts.
The hybrid format combines in-person and online sessions, while a five-day in-person track is tailored for senior executives with limited availability.
This training will help me become a more purposeful and transformative leader.
Michael Kahiti
Director of Planning and Head of the Africa Division at Kenya’s National Treasury
He sees the experience as key to preparing public institutions for a fast-changing economic environment, enabling teams to act more effectively in public financial management.
It opened up our minds to leadership trends and how to impact public financial management.
Dr. Birago Antwi-Agyei
Assistant Commissioner at the Ghana Revenue Authority
She found the training useful for creating a leadership plan shaped by both insight and foresight. With a better understanding of her strengths and areas for development, she now feels more prepared to lead within and beyond her current role.
The program’s learning design encourages reflection and exchange among participants from different countries and institutions. This cross-border engagement creates a collaborative environment where leaders share strategies and experiences.
Leadership starts with you, and that message has challenged me deeply.
Angela Nyangani
Deputy Director of Audit at Zimbabwe’s Office of the Auditor General
She views her participation as both an honor and a responsibility, with the training offering essential tools for leading herself, her organization and the wider public finance system.
This program is opening up the public sector to collaborate, share information and work together,
Lloyd Karanga
Head of Financial Accounting at the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority
He explained that many departments had operated in silos, but LEAPS has encouraged the creation of synergies across agencies, ultimately improving how public finance systems function.
Strong Partnerships
The initiative’s reach is also expanding through strong partnerships with development organizations.
We are proud to support the LEAPS program, which is offering a unique model of leadership development in Africa.
Adil Ababou
Senior Program Officer at the Gates Foundation
He emphasized that long-term reform success requires leadership support alongside technical assistance. With plans to mentor over 200 public officials in the next three years, the foundation is backing LEAPS as a way to build sustainable leadership pipelines.
In Senegal, the experience has been equally impactful.
This is something we needed, especially in the public administration.
Sokhna Mai Diop
Principal Treasury Inspector of Exceptional Grade and Director-General of Administration and Personnel at the Public Accounting and Treasury
She explained that while formal training prepared officials for their roles, the coaching and leadership development she received through LEAPS filled a crucial gap, bringing clarity to both her current and future responsibilities.
It is extremely important that we have instruments that allow us to perform.
Cheikh Ndiaye
Treasury Inspector and Coordinator at the Directorate-General of Public Accounting and Treasury in Senegal
He believes that exposure to both national and international leadership experiences helps public officials improve their practices, manage teams more effectively and strengthen service to the state.
The program structure aligns with national calendars, making it easier to integrate into ongoing reforms and leadership cycles.
Countries can host one or two national cohorts annually, with intakes opening in September and sessions beginning in February.
This structured approach allows for consistent growth and institutional memory across cohorts.
LEAPS Integrates Learning With Action
Participants work on real-world challenges, receive continuous coaching and build networks that extend beyond the classroom.
The alumni community remains active, enabling the continued exchange of knowledge across ministries and national borders.
Dr. Birago Antwi-Agyei emphasized that the journey does not end with the workshop. She and others are applying lessons directly in their institutions, shaping policies, guiding teams and redefining internal culture to prioritize ethical leadership and innovation.
The LEAPS program is creating a group of senior officials who bring strategic vision, emotional intelligence, top leadership qualities and operational discipline to public service.
Public servants who once worked in isolation are forming continental networks, aligning reform goals and applying shared learning.
Whether building digital systems, improving transparency or managing cross-sector collaboration, these leaders are shaping a more resilient and capable public sector for the continent’s future. Meet the remarkable leaders from the program’s inaugural PFM cohort representing Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Sénégal, and Zimbabwe. Their stories illustrate how leadership excellence, innovation, and resilience are critical drivers of positive change on the continent.
Watch Participant Reflections
In testimonial videos, participants share insights on the value of the dialogue and lessons drawn from peer collaboration:
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