Are you into consulting and you want to learn more about Business Development? Attend this program: The Agricultural Agenda Nigeria Initiative (AANI) has announced the commencement of Cohort 4 of its Business Development Service Providers (BDSP) Training and Certification Programme, scheduled to hold from 11th to 15th May, 2026. This cohort will primarily target AANI-registered smallholder farmers in the North-Central and South-West regions, with selected participants from other parts of Nigeria. The programme forms part of AANI’s strategic goal to empower 1,000 smallholder farmers nationwide by strengthening their business and entrepreneurial capacities. Following the success of the first three cohorts across other geopolitical zones - benefiting over 800 farmers, Cohort 4 aims to expand the initiative’s reach and impact, particularly in underserved areas. The five-day intensive training will cover agribusiness diagnostics, access to finance, market linkages, and enterprise support. Participants who complete the programme will receive BDSP certification, positioning them for improved agribusiness performance and access to intervention and development opportunities, in line with AANI’s mission to Outgrow Hunger and Poverty in Nigeria. #OutgrowHungerProject #AANIBDSP-Certifications #NoPoverty #ZeroHunger #DevelopmentFinancing #CapacityBuilding #Cohort4

Funding is changing, but is it changing fast enough for the realities on the ground? On day two at the #WomenDeliver Conference, @Oayouthkenya, joined an important session with global funders, including @dfat, @equality_fund, and Mineroo Foundation where the conversation went beyond commitments and into the shifting realities of #developmentfinancing. The funding landscape right now 🔹Resources are shrinking amid global economic and political shifts 🔹Inequality is deepening, increasing pressure on already stretched systems 🔹Demand for impact is rising, but funding models are struggling to keep up The shift that needs to happen It’s not just about how much funding is available. It’s about how that funding is structured and delivered Current models often limit flexibility, ownership, and long-term impact What funders are being challenged to rethink ☑️Move towards flexible funding that adapts to real-world needs ☑️Build trust-based partnerships with those doing the work ☑️Ensure funding is equitable and accessible, especially for grassroots and youth-led initiatives The takeaway Sustainable impact will not come from rigid systems. It will come from funding that is: 🔹Responsive 🔹Trust-driven 🔹Designed for long-term change, not short-term. #WD2026 #ClimateFinancing

🎥 New Video | Advancing the Localisation Agenda in Zimbabwe What does localisation in action really look like beyond policy statements and global commitments? Watch this insightful presentation by Mr. Gideon Mukwishu, Coordinator of the Zimbabwe Alliance for Humanitarian Action (ZAHA), delivered during Session 7 of the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat held in Masvingo. 📌 Topic: Progress Status in Advancing the Localisation Agenda in Zimbabwe The presentation critically examines how far Zimbabwe’s civil society and development ecosystem has progressed in translating localisation rhetoric into real shifts in power, funding, leadership, and accountability towards local actors. 👉 Watch the full presentation here: 🔗 youtu.be/yauv3srTJtQ This session was part of “Localisation in Action: Making a Shift from Rhetoric to Reality” and was proudly sponsored by the Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association (BVTA). 💬 Join the conversation: What practical steps are needed to strengthen local ownership and sustainability in development cooperation? #LocalisationAgenda #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters

The Grant Makers Roundtable Discussion during the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat provides essential insights into the evolving landscape of development financing and strategic partnerships for civil society organisations in Zimbabwe. This session brought together development partners and donors to discuss current funding priorities, emerging funding mechanisms, and the capacities they seek in prospective CSO partners. The discussion also explored how global and national developments are shaping donor strategies, with a growing emphasis on localisation, sustainability, and collaborative impact. Representatives from Oak Foundation Zimbabwe, @CAID_Zimbabwe , the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the @euinzim , COSPE, and @UNDPZimbabwe shared perspectives that can support CSOs in aligning strategies and enhancing access to funding. We encourage CSO leaders, development practitioners, policymakers, and sector stakeholders to watch the discussion and draw practical insights for strengthening partnerships and advancing sustainable development in Zimbabwe. Watch the full session here: youtu.be/eRBubM_W3TQ #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters

🎥 Now Streaming | Knowledge Bridging on the FATF Mutual Evaluation Exercise NANGO invites you to watch an insightful presentation by Mr. Tichafa Chigaba, Deputy Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit of Zimbabwe, delivered during the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat held in Masvingo. The session unpacks Zimbabwe’s progress on FATF technical compliance, the current status of the NPO sector, and the critical role of civil society in the Mutual Evaluation process. Watch the full video to better understand how the FATF Mutual Evaluation impacts NPOs Link: youtu.be/Q9tW9hqw-XE #FATF #CivicSpaceMatters #DevelopmentFinancing

🎥 Now Live! Catch the Official Conference Opening and Officiation delivered by Honourable Advocate Mercy Dinha, Deputy Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, at the 15th NANGO Annual NGO Directors Summer Retreat. Held under the theme “Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition”, this powerful opening set the tone for a transformative gathering of over 170 CSO leaders, development partners, government officials, and private sector representatives. Don’t miss this insightful address that highlights the importance of collaboration and strengthened civic space in Zimbabwe’s development journey. Watch the full video here: youtu.be/LLvi3vPSi04 #directorssummerretreat #civicspacematters #DevelopmentFinancing

New Video Alert | Update on the Troutbeck Resolutions and Action Agenda Watch NANGO Executive Director, Ernest Nyimai, as he shares a comprehensive update on the implementation of the Troutbeck Resolutions and Action Agenda during the 15th NANGO Annual NGO Directors Summer Retreat held on 27–28 November 2026 in Masvingo. In this update, he discusses key sector developments including progress on self-regulation under the draft SOPs of the PVO Act, the growing impact of the QuAAM process in strengthening CSO accountability, the expansion of the Talk to Your Regulator (T2R) initiative, efforts to build leadership and resource mobilisation capacity through targeted Masterclasses, and advancements in localisation through collaboration with ZAHA and INGOs. Watch the full video here: youtu.be/vk2WTetwWdQ #DirectorsSummerRetreat #CivicSpaceMatters #DevelopmentFinancing

In this video, we feature insightful remarks delivered by Maria Horno Comet, Head of Governance and Social Sectors at the EU Delegation to Zimbabwe, during the opening session of the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat held on 27 November 2025 at the Urban Lifestyle Hotels in Masvingo. Speaking on the sub-topic “Development Partners’ Perspective around the conference theme,” Maria provided a candid and strategic outlook on the evolving development landscape. She emphasized the urgent need for local actors to diversify funding sources in light of shrinking foreign aid budgets and shifting global priorities. Maria also highlighted that international partners are closely monitoring how the implementation of the PVO Amendment Act of 2025 will affect civic space, accountability, and the operating environment for civil society organisations in Zimbabwe. The 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat ran under the theme: “Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition.” ➡️ Listen to the full remarks here: youtu.be/jSDFqGN3C9A Stay tuned for more conversations, insights, and engagements from the Retreat. #directorssummerretreat #DevelopmentFinancing #civicspacematters

🎙️ UN Perspective on Development Financing & Civic Space! 🌍 We invite you to listen to the key remarks on the United Nations’ perspective around the theme of the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat, delivered by Tafadzwa Muvingi on behalf of Mr. Edward Kallon, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator. These powerful insights were shared during the opening session of the 15th Edition of the NANGO Annual NGO Directors Summer Retreat, held on 27–28 November 2025 at the Urban Lifestyle Hotels in Masvingo. ✨ The retreat ran under the theme: “Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition.” Tap the link below to watch the full remarks and gain a deeper understanding of the UN’s perspective on the evolving development landscape: 👉 youtu.be/y-9ewZoi2r4 #DirectorsSummerRetreat #CivicSpaceMatters #DevelopmentFinancing

Watch Now: Opening Address | 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat The 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat brought together Zimbabwe’s civil society leaders for two days of reflection, dialogue, and strategy under the theme: “Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition.” 📣 Hear the opening address delivered by NANGO Board Chairperson, Mrs. Pester Siraha, as she sets the tone for discussions on: 1. Civic space and regulatory changes 2. ⁠Development financing trends 3. ⁠Strengthening CSO collaboration and resilience 💡 Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights on the challenges, opportunities, and strategies shaping Zimbabwe’s civil society sector. 🎥 Watch the full video here:youtu.be/QsIeeKC-N6M #DirectorsSummerRetreat #CivicSpaceMatters #DevelopmentFinancing

Thank You to Our Partners & Sponsors! The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) extends its deepest appreciation to all our partners and sponsors for their incredible support toward the successful hosting of the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat, held from 27–28 November 2025 at Urban Lifestyle Hotels in Masvingo. Under the theme “Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition,” your contributions helped create a powerful platform for dialogue, reflection, and collaboration among CSO leaders, development partners, government, and private sector representatives from across Zimbabwe and beyond. 🙏 Thank you for walking with us, investing in our shared vision, and strengthening the collective voice of civil society. Your commitment continues to inspire transformative action and sustainable progress. Together, we are building a resilient, empowered, and future-ready civil society sector! #DirectorsSummerRetreat #CivicSpaceMatters #DevelopmentFinancing

Official Opening Ceremony | 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat We are privileged to welcome the Deputy Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Adv. Hon. Mercy Dinha, at the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat @nangozimbabwe taking place at the Urban Lifestyle Hotel in Masvingo. This year’s theme, "Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition," sets the tone for our discussions. In her opening remarks, Adv. Dinha highlighted two vital pillars essential for strengthening Zimbabwe’s civic space: 1️⃣ Effective Collaboration: This involves partnering between government and civil society through co-creation, co-funding, and co-evaluation, ensuring that we work towards shared solutions and sustainable, inclusive development. 2️⃣ A Culture of Compliance: Emphasizing the need for discipline and transparency, she pointed out that this culture is crucial for protecting and expanding civic space. Adv. Dinha urged delegates to remember: “Collaborations have outcomes and not just intentions.” This powerful message guides our commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and accountable development ecosystem. #SAYoF #SADCYouth #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters

Day 1 Highlights | 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat A powerful start to the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat as delegates gathered for the Opening Session group photo at the Urban Lifestyle Hotel in Masvingo. Featured in the moment were: -Pester Siraha, NANGO Board Chairperson -Tafadzwa Muvingi, representing the UN Resident Coordinator -Maria Horno Comet, representing the EU in Zimbabwe -Victor Charumbira, representing the CEO of Masvingo Rural District Council -Ernest Nyimai, NANGO Executive Director -Isaac Maposa, Zimbabwe Institute Executive Director We are grateful to our partners and sponsors for enabling us to convene this important gathering! #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters

Official Opening Ceremony | 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat We are honoured to be graced by the Deputy Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Adv. Hon. Mercy Dinha, at the ongoing 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat at the Urban Lifestyle Hotel in Masvingo running under the theme, "Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition". She officiated the Opening Ceremony and delivered powerful remarks centred on two key pillars for strengthening Zimbabwe’s civic space: 1️⃣ Effective collaboration between government and civil society — rooted in co-creation, co-funding, and co-evaluation to ensure shared solutions, inclusive and sustainable development. 2️⃣ A disciplined culture of compliance, which enhances transparency and contributes to the protection and expansion of civic space. She reminded delegates that: “Collaborations have outcomes and not just intentions.” A strong message as we continue shaping a resilient, inclusive, and accountable development ecosystem. #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters

🔥At the 15th NANGO Annual NGO Directors Summer Retreat, @nangozimbabwe in Zimbabwe, Tafadzwa Muvingi, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, delivered inspiring remarks on the sub-theme, “The United Nations’ Perspective on the Conference Theme.” In her address, she emphasized three key priorities essential for enhancing the role and effectiveness of civil society in Zimbabwe: ⚡️Empowering local organizations to spearhead sustainable development initiatives from the grassroots level. ⚡️Fostering an enabling environment that ensures the safety, independence, and operational efficacy of civil society organizations (CSOs). ⚡️Aligning financing and partnerships to maximize impact, ensuring that local actors are not sidelined. ⚡️These insights reflect a collective commitment to fostering a vibrant, empowered, and well-supported civic space. #SAYoF #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing ⚡️

Day 1 Opening Session | Key Highlights Official Welcome Address from Mr. Martin Mubviro, CEO of Masvingo Rural District Council, represented by Victor Charumbira. In his remarks, he underscored the critical importance of strong partnerships between civil society and local authorities in driving inclusive and sustainable development across communities. He further encouraged CSOs to continue playing their vital watchdog role by monitoring local authority operations and performance to strengthen transparency, accountability, and service delivery. Collaboration remains at the heart of building resilient communities — and today’s dialogue set the tone for exactly that. #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters

During the opening session of the 15th NGO Directors Summer Retreat, @nangozimbabwe themed “Navigating New Frontiers: Development Financing and Civic Space in Transition,” Ms. Maria Horno Comet, Head of Governance and Social Sectors, shared valuable insights on behalf of the @euinzim Delegation to Zimbabwe. Her presentation, focused on “Development Partners’ Perspectives ,” addressed critical issues that are shaping the future of civil society in Zimbabwe. She emphasized the increasing pressures from diminishing funding sources, both from national governments and international partners. Ms. Horno Comet highlighted the urgent need for: 🗣Enhanced effectiveness and sustainability within the sector, Strengthened collaborations and partnerships, and 🗣A more supportive operating environment for civil society organizations (CSOs) to flourish and create meaningful impact. 🗣Her insights fostered a constructive dialogue among sector leaders as they seek innovative strategies for resilience, collective action, and sustainable development. #SAYoF #SADCYouth #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters

Thank you, Civic Advisory Hub, for your meaningful participation in the 15th Annual NGO Directors Summer Summit. We value your ongoing commitment to strengthening Zimbabwe’s civic space and championing collaborative solutions that advance the sector. Together, we continue to build a resilient, innovative, and people-centred civil society ecosystem. #DirectorsSummerRetreat #CivicSpaceMatters #DevelopmentFinancing

During the ongoing 15th NANGO Annual NGO Directors Summer Retreat, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, represented by Tafadzwa Muvingi, delivered powerful remarks under the sub-theme: “The United Nations’ Perspective Around the Conference Theme.” Her address underscored three critical priorities for strengthening the role and impact of civil society in Zimbabwe: 1️⃣ Building the capacity of local organisations to drive sustainable development from the ground up. 2️⃣ Promoting an enabling environment that guarantees the safety, independence, and effective operations of CSOs. 3️⃣ Ensuring that financing and partnerships amplify impact—not marginalize local actors. These reflections reinforce the shared commitment to a vibrant, empowered, and well-resourced civic space. #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters

Our Board Chairperson, Mrs. Pester Siraha, set the pulse for the conference. Here are the key highlights from her remarks: 1. Civil Society Must Adapt to a New Regulatory and Financing Reality: The PVO Amendment Act and shifting donor landscapes—marked by the exit of major funders like USAID—have created a new operating environment that demands stronger compliance, resilience, and strategic adaptation. CSOs must proactively engage regulators, strengthen governance, and diversify funding to remain effective. 2. Civic Space Is Under Pressure, but Civil Society Remains Essential: Amid global and local trends of democratic backsliding, restrictive laws, and shrinking civic space, Zimbabwean CSOs face heightened scrutiny and rising operational challenges. Yet the sector remains a critical development partner and defender of accountability, rights, and community voice. 3. A United, Innovative, and Locally Driven Sector Is the Future: Emerging frontiers—digital governance, FATF processes, localisation, and community-driven development—call for a more agile, collaborative, and technologically aware civil society. The sector’s strength lies in solidarity, innovation, and placing communities at the centre of solutions. #DirectorsSummerRetreat #DevelopmentFinancing #CivicSpaceMatters