By Nnamdi Okose, Author, The African Philanthropist

The recent decision by President Trump to cut down on the philanthropic involvement of one of the world’s most generous aid organizations has raised a lot of debate in Africa about the need for foreign aid. People have also wondered about the role of Africans in philanthropic efforts within the continent. These are interesting times that provide an auspicious opportunity to introduce this project. Philanthropy in Africa has long been a force of resilience, innovation, and community-driven solutions. Across the continent, individuals, foundations, and grassroots initiatives have stepped up to address social challenges, empower communities, and create lasting change. Yet, their stories often remain untold, overshadowed by external narratives of aid and development. It is my hope that the African Philanthropist column will change that. This platform will be dedicated to celebrating, amplifying, and recognizing the remarkable contributions of African-led philanthropies that are reshaping lives and redefining generosity.

The concept of philanthropy has deep historical roots in Africa. Traditional African societies practiced communal giving, mutual aid, and collective responsibility long before formalized Western philanthropy. Concepts such as Ubuntu in Southern Africa, Harambee in East Africa, Susu, and Igba Odibo in West Africa emphasized solidarity, generosity, and shared prosperity. Extended family systems and community-led support structures ensured that resources were redistributed to those in need. Ancient kingdoms and empires, such as Mali under Mansa Musa, were known for charitable giving, supporting education, religious institutions, and trade networks that benefited entire communities. This legacy of African philanthropy continues to shape contemporary efforts to uplift and empower societies.

For too long, the dominant narrative around African development has been one of dependence on external aid. While international support has played a role, African-driven philanthropy has consistently demonstrated sustainable and culturally rooted solutions to the continent’s challenges. From business leaders funding educational programs to community-driven health initiatives and traditional giving practices embedded in African societies, homegrown philanthropy is flourishing. The African Philanthropist will spotlight these transformative efforts, bringing to light the stories of those who give not only out of surplus but out of a commitment to shared progress.

This column will also showcase the inspiring individuals and organizations leading the charge in African philanthropy. Whether it’s a tech entrepreneur funding scholarships for underprivileged youth, a community collective providing emergency relief in times of crisis, or a diaspora-led foundation investing in sustainable development, the African Philanthropist will highlight their journeys, challenges, and triumphs. The column will feature profiles of impactful philanthropists, stories of Africans using their resources, influence, and networks to drive change, and community-driven initiatives making a difference in education, healthcare, human rights, and economic empowerment. This will be an opportunity to explore insights into African giving cultures, examine traditional and modern philanthropic practices unique to African societies, and present interviews and thought leadership discussions with changemakers about the future of giving in Africa. It will also delve into policy and advocacy, highlighting how African philanthropy and Corporate Social Responsibility influence governance and social impact at both national and international levels. I hope this effort will somehow increase the ranks of Africans willing to devote their skills and resources toward the development of Africa.

As the African Philanthropist sets sail, I invite readers, stakeholders, and aspiring philanthropists to engage with us. Do you know of an individual or organization making an impact? Are you working on an initiative that embodies the spirit of African generosity? Please share your stories, perspectives, and insights with us. Together, we can build a robust, inspiring, and informed community around African-led philanthropy. Let us celebrate Africa’s compassion, ingenuity, and commitment to justice and development. Welcome to the African Philanthropist—where we chronicle good in Africa.

Bio: Nnamdi Okose is a Philanthropy Manager, storyteller and playwright. He studied English (Literature) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Universty, Awka in Nigeria, and Governance and Political Transformation at the University of the Free State Bloemfontein in South Africa. He co-founded the Foundation for Cross-Cultural Development. He currently sits on the Boards of the Abuja Literary Society and the Legal Assistance and Citizens Rights Initiative. He can be reached at africanphilantropist@gmail.com