BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation | Catalyzing Africa's Economic Transformation - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation | Catalyzing Africa's Economic Transformation
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation | Catalyzing Africa's Economic Transformation
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:UTC
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:UTC
DTSTART:20220101T000000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251120T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251120T160000
DTSTAMP:20251107T151056Z
CREATED:20250728T101016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T151056Z
UID:10000398-1763650800-1763654400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Driving Democracy\, Accountability and Integrated Governance in Central Africa: Leveraging Strategic Partnerships
DESCRIPTION:Date: November 20th 2025\nTime: 3:00pm – 4:00pm (WAT\nVenue : Zoom Online \nContext\nDemocratic Deficits\nThe Central African sub region faces numerous challenges related to democracy\, accountability and governance. The wave of political instability\, longevity in power\, unconstitutional changes of government\, as well as civil conflicts in countries of the Central African sub region highlights the challenges to the consolidation of democracy. The region is plagued by weak governance structures\, impeding efficient public administration and the establishment of democratic principles. Countries of the sub-region; notably\, Cameroon\, Chad\, the Central African Republic\, Gabon\, The Republic of the Congo\, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)\, and Equatorial Guinea all rank consistently low on key democratic indicators (1). As a result\, many countries in this region struggle with issues like corruption\, human rights violation\, limited civil liberties\, weak rule of law\, lack of free and fair elections\, lack of accountability\, and weak institutional frameworks; which all account for the low level of development in the sub region. International programs identify five major guidelines for strengthening democratic governance\, including; The protection of fundamental rights\, the reduction of economic and social inequalities\, the construction of the rule of law\, the promotion of political pluralism and Social pluralism (2). \nThe Case for Integrated Governance\nEven though the afore-mentioned principles are crucial for bolstering democratic and integrated governance\, their application remains difficult across the region because of deeply ingrained political cultures that are resistant to change. Faced with this challenge\, there is need for a strategic approach that combines various elements of governance across different sectors to improve efficiency\, accountability\, sustainability\, and service delivery for citizens. To achieve this\, effective partnerships among governments\, civil society organizations\, international agencies\, and private sectors is very essential. These collaborations have the potential to significantly contribute to the advancement of integrated governance frameworks\, democratic principles\, and accountability systems which are critical for sustainable development. \nObjectives\nThis webinar is part of the SCATT-BRIDGE Project which aims to strengthen think tank resilience and democratic governance across Central Africa. The main objective of the webinar is to examine innovative partnership approaches that can strengthen the democratic process\, enhance accountability and guarantee effective governance across the central African sub region. More specifically\, the webinar seeks to: \n\nAnalyze the current economic and socio-political landscape in the Central African Region and identify key challenges related to integrated governance\, democracy and accountability.\nExploreinnovative partnership models to close gaps in governance\, democracy and accountability and promote constructive change in Central African government systems.\nFosterdialogue on best practices for collaboration between international organizations\, the corporate sector\, civil society\, and government authorities.\nGenerateinsights to inform future programming and donor strategies in the\n\nExpected Outcomes\nAt the end of the discussion\, it is expected that: \n\nAttendees gain a more profound understanding of the specific governance challenges that theCentral African Region faces.\nIdentification of Best Practices and successful cooperation models between stakeholders thatcan be adapted or duplicated within the region.\nDevelopmentof actionable recommendations to guide stakeholders in establishing effective partnerships with the goal of improving governance\, democracy and accountability.\nImproved effectiveness and strategic alignment of future programming and donor strategies in the region.\n\nExpected Outputs\nImmediate output from this webinar includes; \n\nArecording of the webinar that will be made available online for future\nAcomprehensive report that summarizes the webinar’s main discussion\, key insights and actionable policy recommendations.\n\nTarget audience\nThe webinar is targeted for: \n\nRegionalgovernance experts\nGovernment officials from Central African countries responsiblefor public policy formulation\, implementation\, and evaluation\nAfricanUnion\, RECs and RMs\nDonorrepresentatives\nCivilsociety leaders and advocates\nDevelopmentpractitioners from international organizations\, with a focus on policy reforms\nPrivatesector and media representatives engaged in public-private partnerships and policy advocacy\nPublicPolicy experts\nWomenand youth leaders\n\nEvent Format\nThe webinar will take place online\, via zoom through an interactive panel discussion by experts and will be streamed live across all organizational media outlets. \nEvent Date\nThe one-hour long event is scheduled to hold on November 20th 2025 from 3:00pm to 4:00pm (WAT). \nAbout the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation\nThe Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation was established to catalyze Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on social entrepreneurship\, science and technology innovation\, public health\, and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. The Foundation partners with local governments\, policymakers\, private enterprises\, civil society organizations\, and development partners to expand resources available to entrepreneurs\, farmers\, and small business owners\, improving individual livelihoods. \nAbout the Nkafu Policy Institute\nThe Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank with a mission to provide independent\, in-depth\, and insightful policy recommendations that enable all Africans to prosper in free\, fair\, democratic\, and sustainable economies. The Institute’s team of analysts\, experts\, and researchers work on governance and democracy\, health and education\, peace and security\, science and technology\, and economic policy. \nContact\nQuestions related to the organization of this event can be sent to: \nMs. Muriel Kinkoh\, Research Associate\, Peace and Security division\, Nkafu MKinkoh@foretiafoundation.org\nNkafu Policy Institute P: (+237) 222 31 15 84 / (+237) 654 86 72 54 | www.nkafu.org \nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/leveraging-partnerships-driving-democracy-accountability-and-integrated-governance-in-the-central-african-region/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,Governance & Democracy Division,Peace & Security Division,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/scatt-bridge-sqr.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250924T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250924T170000
DTSTAMP:20250922T173009Z
CREATED:20250904T102842Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T173009Z
UID:10000399-1758726000-1758733200@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Cameroon 2025 elections: Between challenges of Alternation\, Security Risks and Democratic Consolidation
DESCRIPTION:Date: September 24th 2025\nTime: 3:00pm – 4:00pm (WAT)\nVenue: Zoom Online \nContext  \nThe 2025 presidential elections in Cameroon is taking place in a national context marked by rising political\, social\, and security tensions. On the political front\, President Paul Biya\, aged 92\, is seeking an eighth term after more than forty years in power (1).This longevity raises significant questions about the management of political transition. The composition of the Constitutional Council as well as the institutional links between Elections Cameroon (ELECAM)\, the territorial administration\, and the ruling CPDM party raise questions about the independence of electoral processes and the fairness of political competition (2). Moreover\, the main opposition leader Maurice Kamto saw his candidacy rejected by ELECAM\, a rejection confirmed on August 5 by the Constitutional Council which dismissed his appeal(3). In the same vein\, two former Ministers of State have resigned from their positions to file their candidacies\, a turning point that further disrupts the scenario of a presidential election that seemed predetermined (4). However\, these new candidacies do not resolve the divergences within the opposition regarding the formation of a united coalition\, thus compromising the prospects for political transition. On the security front\, Cameroon is particularly weakened by two major crises. In the North-West and South-West regions\, a prolonged conflict pits government forces against Anglophone separatist groups\, who threaten to violently disrupt the conduct of elections by instituting boycotts and blockades (5)\, thus compromising electoral participation in these areas. Furthermore\, the Far North region is confronted with a resurgence of Boko Haram attacks\, considerably aggravating insecurity and disrupting civilian life\, including the organization of polls. These conflicts have caused massive population displacements\, complicating electoral logistics and accentuating the exclusion of certain citizens from the democratic process. Faced with these challenges\, holding free\, fair\, and peaceful elections appears as a major stake for the country’s stability. \nObjectives \nThis webinar aims to analyze and debate the main issues related to the 2025 presidential election in Cameroon\, focusing on the challenges of political alternation\, security risks\, and mechanisms for democratic consolidation. More specifically\, it seeks to: \n\nAssess the political and social conditions ahead of the 2025 elections and identify obstacles to a peaceful and credible political alternation.\nEvaluate security threats likely to affect the electoral process\, as well as strategies to ensure a secure and inclusive election.\nPromote best practices and recommendations to strengthen democracy through transparent electoral institutions\, peaceful political dialogue\, and active citizen participation.\n\nExpected Outcomes  \nAt the end of this process\, the goal is to achieve: \n\nA better understanding of the political issues specific to the October 12\, 2025 presidential election\, particularly in terms of governance and alternation; Increased awareness of the effects of security risks on holding reliable and transparent elections;\nConcrete recommendations to strengthen electoral institutions\, encourage citizen inclusion\, and ease political tensions;\nThe promotion of an inclusive national dialogue aimed at fostering a peaceful and stable political climate.\n\nTarget Audience \nThis reflective effort is primarily addressed to: \n\npolitical decision-makers and institutions in charge of organizing elections; political parties\,\ncivil society and human rights organizations; national and international actors involved in peace and security;\nmediaorgans that focus on political communication\nresearchers who specializein political science and democratic development; and\nthe entire Cameroonian citizenry.\n\nEvent Format \nThe webinar will take place online\, via zoom through an interactive panel discussion by experts and will be streamed live across all organizational media outlets. \nEvent Date \nThe one-hour long event is scheduled to hold on September 24th 2025 from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. \nAbout the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation \nThe Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation was established to catalyze Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on social entrepreneurship\, science and technology innovation\, public health\, and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. The Foundation partners with local governments\, policymakers\, private enterprises\, civil society organizations\, and development partners to expand resources available to entrepreneurs\, farmers\, and small business owners\, improving individual livelihoods. \nAbout the Nkafu Policy Institute \nThe Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank with a mission to provide independent\, in-depth\, and insightful policy recommendations that enable all Africans to prosper in free\, fair\, democratic\, and sustainable economies. The Institute’s team of analysts\, experts\, and researchers work on governance and democracy\, health and education\, peace and security\, science and technology\, and economic policy. \nContact \nQuestions related to the organization of this event can be sent to: \nMr. Antem Anthony\, Policy Analyst\, and Head of Conflict Prevention and Analysis Unit\, Peace and Security Division\, AAntem@foretiafoundation.org \nOR \nMs. Aboudi Vanessa\, Policy Analyst\, Governance and Democracy Division\, vaboudi@foretiafoundation.org \n Nkafu Policy Institute\, P: (+237) 222 31 15 84 / (+237) 654 86 72 54\, www.nkafu.org. \nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/cameroon-2025-elections-between-challenges-of-alternation-security-risks-and-democratic-consolidation/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,SCATT-BRIDGE,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/eng_sqrr.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250828T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250828T170000
DTSTAMP:20250821T091508Z
CREATED:20250609T114223Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T091508Z
UID:10000395-1756368000-1756400400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Women's Dual Burden: Navigating Careers and Care Responsibilities in Sub-Saharan Africa
DESCRIPTION:Date: August 28\, 2025\nTime: 3:00 pm – 4:00pm (GMT+1)\nVenue: Zoom Online (Register now) \nBackground  \nIn Africa\, women play a critical role in the formal and informal economy\, with a high percentage performing care work\, including housework\, childcare\, elder care\, and health care. Such work\, though necessary to the functioning of society\, is typically underpaid\, undervalued\, and invisible (1). Although career work in the formal economy has become an increasingly appealing activity for women in recent years\, care work remains predominantly a feminized sector and essential to family and community well-being. Women in sub-Saharan Africa\, especially\, spend significantly larger proportions of their time on unpaid care work compared to men. Women in sub-Saharan Africa spend much more time on unpaid care work than men\, averaging 4.15 hours per day compared to men’s 1.25 hours (2). In the majority of Sub-Saharan Africa\, the division of labor continues to place a significant burden on women to provide both reproductive and productive labor. Professional women\, in their quest for professional careers\, struggle to combine their career with care work chores. The double burden of care work and career tends to lead to time poverty\, limited access to career advancement opportunities\, and health effects on women. There is a need to address the gendered nature of care work and reflect on how women can be enabled to excel at career as well as care work. The Nkafu Policy Institute\, think tank at the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation\, is organizing a webinar on the subject “Women’s Dual Burden: Navigating Careers and Care Responsibilities in Sub-Saharan Africa”.  \nObjectives \nThe main objective of this webinar is to discuss the unique challenges women face in career and care work and how to empower them in both fields. Specifically\, the webinar will: \n\nProvide a comprehensive overview of the primary challenges women face in balancing work\, careers\, and care responsibilities in SSA;\nExplore the part played by men and communities in changing society’s expectations and distributive responsibilities for care;\nAdvocate for workplace practices that support women’s career participation without compromising caregiving roles;\nDiscuss strategies and policy shifts to empower women in SSA through improved jobs\, healthcare\, and caregiving support.\n\nTarget audience \nThe event targets policymakers\, women leaders\, activists\, civil society\, international agencies\, researchers\, media\, and employers advancing gender equality and economic empowerment. \nExpected outcomes of the event \nThe event aims to achieve the following outcomes: \n\nEnhanced understanding of the societal and structural problems of women in managing career and care work in Sub Saharan Africa.\nIncreased understanding regarding the need for an equal share of responsibility between women and men in care professions\, necessitating deeper cultural and societal shifts in gender roles.\nIssued recommendations to improve the visibility of care work\, ensure fair pay\, promote worker-friendly policies\, and support women’s equality.\n\nContact details  \nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org  / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54 \nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/women-dual-burden-navigating-careers-and-care-responsibilities-in-sub-saharan-africa/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/WBINAR-SQR.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250723T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250723T160000
DTSTAMP:20250718T170820Z
CREATED:20250707T144546Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250718T170820Z
UID:10000397-1753282800-1753286400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Addressing Barriers to Private Health Insurance Adoption in Cameroon
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, July 23rd\, 2025\nVenue: Zoom\, Online\nTime: 3:00PM – 4:00PM (GMT+1) \nBackground \nAccessing quality care remain a major challenge in Cameroon\, particularly for the underprivileged population. Although the government’s efforts to ensure equitable access to quality health services for the Cameroonian population led to the launch of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) phase 1 in April 2023\, the healthcare package offered remains limited. Most Cameroonians are thus still exposed to rising healthcare costs\, high out-of-pocket payments and eventually catastrophic health spendings. \nPrivate Health Insurance schemes (PHI) can complement UHC by providing opportunities for coverage for persons who are not benefiting from it. PHI acts as a financial protection mechanism in the event of an unexpected medical condition and presents numerous benefits. In addition to reducing the financial burden of medical costs\, PHI enables timely access to adequate care\, offers access to more provider choices and better service quality. Despite its role as a potential health insurance service provider\, \, PHI coverage in Cameroon remains low and  only about 9% of the population is covered by any form of health insurance scheme (1)\, leading to underutilization of available health services. Our focus on PHIs will be private insurance companies and banks offering health insurance services in Cameroon. \nLow insurance coverage in Cameroon is attributed to several factors including high cost of premiums\, lack of trust in insurance structures\, limited knowledge of insurance functioning and long administrative procedures (2). Addressing these barriers and strengthening private health insurance to be inclusive can lead to improved access to quality healthcare and accelerate progress towards achieving UHC in Cameroon. \nObjectives \nThe objective of this webinar is to explore strategies for increasing the uptake of private health insurance services by addressing key barriers in Cameroon. \nMore specifically\, the webinar aims to: \n\nIdentify and analyze the key barriers to private health insurance uptake among different population groups in Cameroon\, focusing on knowledge\, affordability\, trust\, and sociocultural factors.\nTo assess the operational challenges faced by private health insurance providers\, including regulatory gaps and claims management.\nTo examine the role of government\, private insurers\, and community stakeholders in overcoming these barriers.\n-Suggest possible strategies for addressing these barriers to enhance uptake of these services by the population.\n\nExpected Outputs \nThe expected outputs are: \n\nImproved understanding on barriers to insurance adoption in Cameroon.\nActionable recommendations provided for government\, private insurers\, and community stakeholders in overcoming these barriers.\n\nTarget Audience \nThis webinar is intended for health insurance providers\, healthcare providers\, health system strengthening experts\, policymakers\, government officials\, PHI subscribers and the public. \nVenue \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom platform and will be aired on Facebook live. \nAbout the Organizers \n\nAbout the Denis And Lenora Foretia Foundation\n\nThe Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation was established to catalyze Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on social entrepreneurship\, science and technology\, innovation\, public health and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. The foundation works in partnership with local governments\, policy makers\, private enterprises\, civil society organizations as well as development partners to expand the resources available to entrepreneurs\, farmers\, and small business owners in addition to improving individual livelihoods. \n\nAbout the Nkafu Policy Institute\n\nThe Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank with a mission to provide independent\, in-depth and insightful policy recommendations that allows all Africans to prosper in free\, fair\, democratic and sustainable economies. The Institute is made up of analysts\, experts and researchers from all over the world\, working on a wide range of topics\, including governance and democracy\, health and education\, peace and security\, science and technology\, and economic policy. \nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/addressing-barriers-to-private-health-insurance-adoption-in-cameroon/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:EPHI,Event,Events,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/PHI-eng_july-23_SQ-.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250509T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250509T160000
DTSTAMP:20250508T111838Z
CREATED:20250424T164938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T111838Z
UID:10000390-1746802800-1746806400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Innovations in Private health insurance Delivery
DESCRIPTION:Date: Thursday\, May 9th\, 2025\nVenue: Zoom\, Online (REGISTER NOW)\nTime: 3:00pm – 4:00pm \nBackground \nRising healthcare costs\, affordability concerns\, disparities in access to care\, ill-equipped infrastructures and inadequate human resources are among the most pressing health system issues in Cameroon. Global technological advances have the capability of addressing several of these needs\, offering a quicker and more accessible route to healthcare services\, reducing waiting time in the hospitals and facilitating access to healthcare specialists. Indeed\, the widening of mobile phones usage and expansion of internet penetration (34% increase in the past four years (1))\, opens up doors for numerous possibilities in improving health service delivery and coverage in the country. This includes increasing accessibility and addressing affordability by reducing the financial burden related to healthcare. \nRisk pooling and healthcare prepayment mechanisms such as health insurance are proven solutions to tackle healthcare related financial constraints\, but this remains unpopular\, with only a small proportion of the population covered. Leveraging innovation and technology to increase healthcare affordability thus goes beyond cost reduction\, to address the availability and accessibility of health coverage mechanisms for all. This means transforming how health insurance is accessed\, managed\, and delivered. \nDigital tools such as mobile platforms\, electronic claims processing\, data analytics\, and AI-powered customer support can streamline enrolment\, reduce administrative costs\, and improve user experience. By embracing tech-driven solutions\, private health insurance providers can enhance service efficiency and expand coverage to underserved populations. This webinar will examine how health insurance companies can harness innovation and technology to enhance service delivery\, exploring possible challenges and the roles of key stakeholders in ensuring their successful and sustainable operation. \nObjectives \nThe objective of this webinar is to showcase the potential of digital technologies to transform private health insurance service delivery in Cameroon. \nMore specifically\, the webinar aims to: \n\nExplore innovative solutions for enrollment\, claims management\, and health insurance service delivery.\nIdentify specific challenges in implementing tech-driven solutions for private health insurance service delivery.\nIdentify key stakeholders and their specific roles in implementing innovative health insurance delivery solutions.\n\nExpected Outputs \nThe expected outputs are: \n\nImproved understanding of the potential of technology to transform private health insurance in Cameroon.\nInsights gained into how to address potential challenges and engage the relevant stakeholders.\n\nTargeted Audience \nThis webinar is intended for health insurance providers\, Healthcare providers\, IT professionals and digital health innovators\, Policymakers\, Government officials\, potential investors in digital health solutions and the public. \nVenue \nThis webinar will take place on Zoom platform and will be aired on Facebook live. \nRegister
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/innovations-in-private-health-insurance-delivery/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:EPHI,Event,Events,Health Insurance,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/innovation-in-_sqr_eng.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250423T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250423T160000
DTSTAMP:20250416T075340Z
CREATED:20250319T101524Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250416T075340Z
UID:10000386-1745420400-1745424000@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Driving Impact and Sustainability in the Governance and Democratic Ecosystem\, role of Central African Think Tanks
DESCRIPTION:Venue :  Zoom Online (Register now)\nDate: April 23rd 2025\nTime: 03:00 pm -04:00 pm \n\nContext\n\nThe Central African region faces significant governance and democratic challenges\, including weak institutions\, limited civic engagement\, and inadequate policy frameworks. Think tanks\, as independent research and analysis organizations\, have a critical role to play in driving impact and sustainability in the governance and democratic ecosystem (1). The prevalence and rising trend of authoritarianism are significant challenges confronting many Francophone African countries (2). Many French speaking countries such as Gabon\, Chad\, Mali\, Burkina Faso\, Niger and even Cameroon have either undone or reversed democratic gains accrued in the past and this is evident in recurrent coups within the last few years. Furthermore\, the concentration of power in the hands of unaccountable autocrats\, an act which undermines democracy\, good governance and sustainable development is prevalent in the sub-region.  In response to this trend\, governance and democracy think tanks have a role to play in spotlighting democratic principles that promote effective governance and fundamental human rights. This webinar will expound on what think tanks could do to reinforce democratic institutions\, while pushing for necessary policy reforms. \n\nObjectives\n\nThe main objective of this webinar is to explore the potential of Central African think tanks in driving impact and sustainability in the governance and democratic ecosystem\, and to identify opportunities for collaboration and support. \nSpecific Objectives: \n\nTo assess the current state of think tanks in Central Africa and their role in governance and democracy.\nTo examine the challenges and opportunities facing think tanks in driving impact and sustainability.\nTo identify best practices and innovative approaches for think tanks to promote democratic governance.\nTo foster collaboration and networking among Central African think tanks.\n\n\nTarget Audience\n\n\nThe event targets leaders and representatives of think tanks and CSOs in (Francophone) Africa\, policy researchers\, analysts\, and academics\, donor agencies\, and international organizations supporting governance and civil society in the region.\nThe webinar also targets government officials and policy-makers interested in governance\, conflict resolution\, and civil society engagement\, and media professionals covering socio-political issues in Francophone Africa.\n\n      4. Expected Outcome of the event \n\nEnhanced capacity of Central African think tanks to drive governance and democratic reforms.\nImproved policy research and analysis informing governance decisions.\nIncreased advocacy and influence of think tanks on governance and democracy issues.\nStrengthened partnerships among think tanks\, governments\, and civil society in Central Africa.\nSustainable funding models for think tanks.\n\n     5. Event Format \nThe event will take place online\, via zoom with moderated panel discussions by experts and will be streamed live on Foretia Foundation’s Facebook page. \n    6. Event date and Time \nApril 23rd 2025 \, from 3pm to 4pm WAT \n    7. Contacts \nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: (+237) 22 31 15 84 / 654 86 72 54) \nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/driving-impact-and-sustainability-in-the-governance-and-democratic-ecosystem-role-of-central-african-think-tanks/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,Nkafu Policy Institute,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/SCATT-BRIDGE-Webinar-Square.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250306T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250306T160000
DTSTAMP:20250227T064457Z
CREATED:20250213T135436Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T064457Z
UID:10000382-1741273200-1741276800@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Rights and Freedoms of Socially Vulnerable Categories: How to Build Universal and Inclusive Protection from the Cameroonian Case ?
DESCRIPTION:Date: March 6\, 2025\,\nTime: from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m\nVenue: Zoom Online (Register now) \n\nBackground\n\nWhile African states have for several decades made commitments at the international and national levels to guarantee the rights and freedoms of all individuals\, certain social categories considered vulnerable continue to face systemic obstacles in the effective enjoyment of their rights. Women and people with disabilities are particularly concerned: data shows that they encounter specific obstacles in accessing their social\, political and economic rights. (1). It is in this general context that the Nkafu Policy Institute has produced a report entitled “Rights and freedoms of socially vulnerable categories”\, to analyze in the specific case of Cameroon\, the state\, challenges and prospects of the rights and freedoms of these two social categories. This conversation will then mainly focus on a discussion of the main results of this report\, in order to understand\, from the case of Cameroon\, the situation of women and people with disabilities in Africa\, particularly in a context of socio-political crisis and economic and cultural challenges. \n\nObjectives\n\nThe objective of this conversation is to broadly analyze the main ideas of the report based on evidence from Cameroon and other African countries\, to highlight general trends and strategies to improve access to rights for women and persons with disabilities. Specifically\, it will: \n\nAnalyze and assess the effectiveness of current legal and social mechanisms that enable women and persons with disabilities to exercise their rights in all areas ;\nIdentify gaps and systemic barriers (discrimination\, exclusion\, poverty\, gender-based barriers\, intersectionality) that hinder universal access to fundamental freedoms for women and persons with disabilities ;\nPromote inclusive public policies that integrate participatory approaches to ensure that the voices of vulnerable people shape decisions that affect them ;\nFacilitate wide dissemination of the report on the rights and freedoms of women and people with disabilities so that this document serves as a lever to influence public policies\, raise awareness and enable those concerned to fully take ownership of their rights.\n\n\nExpected Outcomes\n\n\nRaise awareness about the rights of women and people with disabilities:Make it known that respect for the rights of women and people with disabilities is a community affair and the balance of societies is based on the inclusion and respect of all its members ;\nEncourage women and people with disabilities to claim their rights:get the targets of the report to break the silence on the different forms of abuse they are victims of ;\nAdvocate for more inclusive policies and programs or those specifically dedicated to women and people with disabilities:Get public decision-makers to draw inspiration from the recommendations of the report and the conversation to strengthen discriminatory measures against women and people with disabilities.\n\n\nExpected Outputs\n\n\nRenewal of the approach in the analysis of human rights: adopt an analysis of rights and public policies that directly target women and people with disabilities\, to avoid the generalist or holistic approaches regularly used\, which do not allow for a specific assessment of the evolution of the rights of certain social groups that face specific challenges ;\nPromote the dissemination of the report: This conversation will help to better highlight the importance of such a report and facilitate its dissemination to participants in the form of a directly accessible link ;\nPublication of the conversation on On Policy Magazine:This conversation will be published in the form of a dialogue on the Nkafu Policy Institute magazine.\n\n\nTarget audience \n\nThis Conversation is accessible to everyone\, without restriction. \n\nEvent Format\n\nThe Conversation will take place online\, via the Zoom platform and will be simultaneously broadcast on the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation’s social media channels. In addition\, French to English interpretation will be available throughout the conversation\, to ensure that all participants understand the analyses. \n\nEvent Date\n\nThis is a one-hour event\, which will be held on March 6\, 2025\, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cameroon time. \n\nAbout the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation\n\nThe Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation was established to catalyze Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on social entrepreneurship\, science and technology innovation\, public health\, and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. The Foundation partners with local governments\, policymakers\, private enterprises\, civil society organizations\, and development partners to expand resources available to entrepreneurs\, farmers\, and small business owners\, improving individual livelihoods. \n9.About the Nkafu Policy Institute \nThe Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank with a mission to provide independent\, in-depth\, and insightful policy recommendations that enable all Africans to prosper in free\, fair\, democratic\, and sustainable economies. The Institute’s team of analysts\, experts\, and researchers works on governance and democracy\, health and education\, peace and security\, science and technology\, and economic policy. \n\n\nContact\n\n\nQuestions related to the organization of this event can be sent to Ms Vanessa Aboudi\, Policy Analyst\, Nkafu Policy Institute Vaboudi@foretiafoundation.org. \nNkafu Policy Institute\nP: (+237) 222 31 15 84 / (+237) 654 86 72 54/info@foretiafoundation.org\nwww.nkafu.org
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/rights-and-freedoms-of-socially-vulnerable-categories-how-to-build-universal-and-inclusive-protection-from-the-cameroonian-case/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Governance-Webinar-Square-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250226T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250226T160000
DTSTAMP:20250219T163440Z
CREATED:20250128T105751Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T163440Z
UID:10000380-1740582000-1740585600@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Breaking Barriers: Advancing Women’s Leadership in Francophone Africa’s Peace and Governance Ecosystem
DESCRIPTION:Date : February 26th 2025\nTime : 3:00pm – 4:00pm (WAT)\nVenue : Zoom Online (Register Now) \nContext\nThe issue of women’s potential and leadership efficiency remains particularly sensitive in Francophone Africa\, encompassing 26 African countries where French is recognized as an official language. While Francophone Africa boasts cultural\, ethnic\, and linguistic diversity\, it faces significant challenges regarding gender equality in leadership roles. Across these countries\, no woman serves as head of state\, reflecting a deeply entrenched patriarchal structure that limits women’s representation in senior political and decision-making positions. \nFrom a policy perspective\, women make up approximately 24% of parliamentarians in Africa\, divided into 25% in lower houses and 20% in upper houses. Rwanda stands out with a remarkable 61.3% female parliamentary representation\, followed by Senegal (43%)\, Cameroon (31%)\, Burkina Faso (11%)\, and Côte d’Ivoire (15%). However\, the majority of Francophone African nations continue to lag in women’s inclusion in peace\, security\, and governance processes. \nThe civic space across these countries also reflects significant gender gaps. Women’s participation in peace negotiations\, governance processes\, and civic engagements remains limited due to structural\, cultural\, and systemic barriers. Experts agree that the exclusion of women from decision-making processes hinders communities from achieving sustainable peace. During times of conflict\, women’s unique vulnerabilities and needs are often overlooked\, rendering peace agreements and humanitarian interventions less effective. \nObjectives\nThis webinar seeks to: \n\nExamine thebarriers faced by women in the peace\, security\, and governance ecosystem of Francophone Africa.\nAmplify evidence-basedinsights into the critical roles and contributions of African women in peace and governance processes.\nShowcase Africanwomen who are driving meaningful impact across the peace\, security\, and governance ecosystem.\nAdvocate for inclusive participation of women in peacebuilding and decision-making processes in Francophone Africa.\n\nExpected Outcomes\n\nIncreased Awareness:Reflect on the current challenges women face in governance and civic spaces and identify actionable solutions.\nInspiration for Young Women: Highlight successful women leaders who are making a positive impact in peace\, security\, and governance to inspire the next generation.\nPolicyAdvocacy: Encourage policymakers to implement structural reforms to enhance\n\nwomen’s inclusion and active participation in decision-making processes. \nExpected Outputs\n\nRenewedPerspectives: Generate fresh\, inclusive ideas around women’s leadership in\n\npeace and governance. \n\nWebinar Report: A comprehensive report with actionable\, evidence-based recommendations tailored to foster structural reforms and promote women’s\n\nTarget Audience\nThis webinar is designed for: \n\nGovernment officials responsible for public policy formulation\, implementation\, and\nRepresentatives of the AfricanUnion\, Regional Economic Communities (RECs)\, and Regional Mechanisms (RMs).\nCivilsociety leaders and\nDevelopmentpractitioners and international organizations focused on policy\nPrivate sector and media representatives engaged in public-private partnerships and\nPublicpolicy\nWomenand youth\n\nEvent Format\nThe webinar will be held virtually on Zoom and feature an interactive panel discussion with distinguished experts. It will be streamed live on the Nkafu Policy Institute’s media platforms to reach a broader audience. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided in English and French to ensure inclusivity. \nEvent Date\nThe one hour event is scheduled to hold on February 26th 2025 from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. \nAbout the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation\nThe Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation was established to catalyze Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on social entrepreneurship\, science and technology innovation\, public health\, and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. The Foundation partners with local governments\, policymakers\, private enterprises\, civil society organizations\, and development partners to expand resources available to entrepreneurs\, farmers\, and small business owners\, improving individual livelihoods. \nAbout the Nkafu Policy Institute\nThe Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank with a mission to provide independent\, in-depth\, and insightful policy recommendations that enable all Africans to prosper in free\, fair\, democratic\, and sustainable economies. The Institute’s team of analysts\, experts\, and researchers works on governance and democracy\, health and education\, peace and security\, science and technology\, and economic policy. \nContact\nQuestions related to the organization of this event can be sent to: \nMr Anthony Antem\, Policy Analyst and Head of Conflict Analysis and Prevention; Division of Peace and Security\, Nkafu Policy Institute AAntem@foretiafoundation.org \nNkafu Policy Institute P: (+237) 222 31 15 84 / (+237) 654 86 72 54 – www.nkafu.org
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/breaking-barriers-advancing-womens-leadership-in-francophone-africas-peace-and-governance-ecosystem/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,SCATT-BRIDGE,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SCATT-BRIDGE-Webinar-Square-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241120T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241120T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104713Z
CREATED:20250127T104713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104713Z
UID:10000331-1732114800-1732118400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Optimizing Social Media for Increased Visibility and Networking
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, November 20\, 2024Time: 3:00pm to 4:00pm\nVenue: Online Zoom (Register Now)\nBackground\nSocial media are currently the fastest and most effective ways of disseminating information across various fields (Chan et al.\, 2020; Lamidi & Gana\, 2014). In today’s rapidly evolving digital world\, think tanks and organizations must fully utilize new technologies and adapt to trends in communication to remain relevant and impactful. The ability to engage audiences\, influence policy discussions and agenda as well as drive change is increasingly tied to how well these institutions leverage digital platforms.\nDuring the first and second editions of the Central Africa Think Tank Forum and Executive & Strategic Leadership Programs which individually convened in Yaoundé – Cameroon\, several communication challenges faced by think tanks in the region were highlighted. These challenges include low visibility due to ineffective social media strategies\, lack of dedicated staff or budgets for professional social media management (resulting in inconsistent posting and engagement)\, weak digital literacy within teams\, limited knowledge of the latest tools and trends in social media\, and a lack of understanding of the nuances of different social media platforms for tailored content creation.\nTo address these challenges\, the Nkafu Policy Institute is organizing a training session on “Optimizing Social Media for Increased Visibility and Networking.”\nObjective\nThis training aims to equip communications professionals in Central African think tanks with the tools\, strategies\, and best practices necessary to effectively manage their organizations’ social media presence. By doing so\, they can amplify their voices\, broaden their audience reach\, and strengthen their influence in policy discourse.\nTarget Audience\nCommunications professionals from think tanks in the Central African region.\nFormat\nThe training will be conducted virtually and will include a series of moderated questions followed by an open Q&A session with the audience. Participants will learn about: \nTailoring content for Twitter\, Facebook\, and LinkedIn\nStrategies for maintaining an active social media presence with limited staff and budget\nUsing data to measure social media impact and refine strategies\nAudience engagement techniques\nHandling negative feedback on social media\nAligning social media efforts with broader organizational goals and policy objectives. \nExpected Outcomes\nBy the end of the training\, participants will: \nBe equipped with actionable strategies to enhance their think tanks’ social media presence\nHave a deeper understanding of how to create and manage engaging social media content\nBe able to analyze and adapt social media strategies\nGain insights into fostering meaningful networks and collaborations through social media platforms\nBe empowered to overcome communication challenges unique to their think tanks. \nContact Information\nFor more information\, please contact: Ayukmba Nkonghonyor\, Senior Communications Manager\nEmail: Nayukmba@foretiafoundation.org Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/optimizing-social-media-for-increased-visibility-and-networking/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/CAPACITY-BUILDING-WORKSOP.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241115T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241115T163000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104713Z
CREATED:20250127T104713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104713Z
UID:10000330-1731682800-1731688200@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Advancing Global Surgery Research in Ethiopia: Challenges\, Opportunities\, and the Way Forward
DESCRIPTION:Date: Friday\, November 15\, 2024Time: 3:00pm-4:30pm (CAT/GMT+1) / 5:00-6:30pm (EAT/GMT+3)\nVenue: Zoom\, online (REGISTER NOW)\nBackground\nGlobal surgery\, once regarded as a neglected stepchild of global health\, has gained increasing recognition as countries strive to strengthen their health systems. Surgical care is now widely acknowledged as an essential component of universal health coverage. According to estimates\, a staggering 5 billion people worldwide lack access to safe\, timely\, and affordable surgical and anesthesia care. This disparity is even more pronounced in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)\, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa\, where 9 in 10 individuals are unable to receive the surgical care they need. The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery highlighted in its landmark 2015 report that investing in surgery could avert millions of deaths globally and that surgery is a cost-effective public health intervention.\nEthiopia has been at the forefront of this movement. In 2015\, the country became one of the early adopters of a National Surgical\, Obstetric\, and Anesthesia Plan (NSOAP) called “Saving Lives Through Safe Surgery” (SaLTS). This initiative aimed to address the significant gaps in surgical care by focusing on increasing access\, improving quality\, and enhancing infrastructure for surgical services. Through SaLTS\, Ethiopia sought to reduce the unmet need for surgical care and integrate surgery into its broader health system strengthening efforts.\nResearch has played a pivotal role in this journey. It has been crucial in identifying the key challenges in global surgery\, such as workforce shortages\, inadequate infrastructure\, and financial barriers. In Ethiopia\, research efforts can help tailor the SaLTS program to address context-specific challenges\, such as the uneven distribution of surgical care between urban and rural areas and the scarcity of trained surgical professionals. Studies conducted within the country have shed light on the availability of surgical services at different levels of the healthcare system\, leading to targeted interventions to improve surgical capacity in underserved regions. This has not only strengthened Ethiopia’s surgical system but also contributed to the global body of knowledge on how to effectively scale up surgical care in resource-limited settings. In addition to strengthening healthcare systems\, global surgery research has significant implications for health equity by highlighting the need for accessible surgical care to vulnerable populations who are often left behind in broader health initiatives. By addressing these inequities\, countries like Ethiopia are contributing to the global goal of achieving health for all.\nObjectives\nThe webinar will convene key stakeholders to evaluate the current state of global surgery research in Ethiopia. The session will aims to: \nOutline and review ongoing research activities in the field of global surgery within Ethiopia.\nIdentify and analyze the challenges and barriers impacting global surgery research.\nDiscuss and strategize potential opportunities for advancing research efforts.\nFacilitate contributions from each participant to ensure a comprehensive and multi-perspective understanding of the subject matter. \nTargeted Audience\nThis webinar is designed for healthcare professionals\, global health leaders\, policymakers\, researchers\, public health specialists\, students\, and anyone from the global surgery and research community with an interest in Ethiopia..\nVenue\nThis discussion will be an online event hosted on the Zoom platform and broadcasted on Facebook.\nExpected outputs\n– Enhanced understanding of the state of global surgery research in Ethiopia.\n– Identification of key challenges and opportunities for improvement.\n– Strategic recommendations for advancing research and policy.
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/advancing-global-surgery-research-in-ethiopia-challenges-opportunities-and-the-way-forward/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,Health Policy and Research Division,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/BANNER-15-NOV-2024-B.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241030T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241030T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104717Z
CREATED:20250127T104717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104717Z
UID:10000333-1730300400-1730304000@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Private Health Insurance as a potentiator of Universal Health Coverage
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday October 30th\, 2024Time: 3:00pm -4:00pm\nVenue: Zoom\, Online (Register now) \nBackground\nHealth insurance is a form of financial protection that is effective in the event of an unexpected illness\, as it allows healthcare users to access quality health services when and wherever they need it with minimal financial setbacks. In a population of over 25 million\, in Cameroon\, only 6.46% of Cameroonians had a form of social health protection [1] leaving nonsubscribers to spend exponentially in order to access healthcare services. Cameroon\, alongside other nations are working towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) [2] as per the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) agenda. Committed to achieve this\, the Cameroonian government launched the Phase I of UHC in April 2023\, effective in 5 of the 10 regions with the package for pregnant women and children expanded to the South West and North West region of Cameroon. With the numerous private health insurance companies in the country subscription rate remain low. This highlights the need for effective health insurance systems to facilitate broader access to healthcare services.\nObjectives\nThe overall objective is to highlight the role health insurance plays in facilitating and enabling access to quality\, and timely healthcare services whenever needed.\nMore specifically: \nDiscuss the Current State of Health Insurance: Analyze the existing health insurance landscape in Cameroon\, including challenges and opportunities.\nHighlight Successful Models: Present successful health insurance models from other countries African countries that could be adapted to the Cameroonian context.\nIdentify Barriers to Access: Examine barriers that prevent citizens from enrolling in health insurance programs and accessing UHC. \nExpected Outcomes\nThe expected outputs are: \nIncreased awareness of the importance of health insurance in achieving UHC in Cameroon.\nIdentification of actionable strategies to enhance health insurance coverage.\nStrengthened collaboration among stakeholders to address barriers to access.\nDevelopment of a roadmap for future initiatives aimed at improving health financing mechanisms. \nTargeted Audience\nThis webinar is intended for the health insurance providers\, policymakers\, government officials\, public health professionals\, public health researchers\, health economists\, community leaders\, health advocates\, and the general public\nVenue\nThis webinar will take place on Zoom platform and will be aired on Facebook live.\nProposed Panelists/Moderator \nNoudji Simon\, MD\, MPH\, Head of Communication\, marketing and promotion\, UHC\nItem Gustave\, Branch Manager AXA Assurance\nMildred Njamnsi\, Resource Mobiliser North West Special Fund for Health \n Moderator:\nDr Odette Kibu\, Senior Policy Analyst Nkafu Policy Institute\nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/private-health-insurance-as-a-potentiator-of-universal-health-coverage/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,Health Insurance,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/BANNER-30-OCT-2024-B-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241023T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241023T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104717Z
CREATED:20250127T104717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104717Z
UID:10000334-1729695600-1729699200@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Migrations and Women Empowerment in Central Africa: Facts and Figures
DESCRIPTION:Date: October 23\, 2024Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00pm (GMT+1)\nVenue: Zoom Online (Register now) \nBackground  \nMigration in Africa is a complex phenomenon influenced by various factors\, including conflict\, economic opportunities\, and social dynamics. It has seen a notable increase\, with the number of migrants rising from 17.2 million in 2010 to 26.3 million in 2019\, with women making up about 45% of this total (1). In Central Africa\, migrations have been shaped by colonial legacies and socio-political upheavals. The movement of Bantu-speaking peoples\, Portuguese traders\, and later labor migrants during the colonial period set the stage for contemporary migration dynamics. During the transatlantic slave trade\, ports in Angola were pivotal\, with nearly three million people forcibly transported to the Americas from Luanda alone (2).\nIn conflict-affected regions\, migration is often a survival strategy. Women\, for instance\, migrate not only for safety but also in search of better economic opportunities\, often becoming the primary breadwinners for their families. Those who constitute a significant portion of migrants experience unique challenges such as triple discrimination from gender\, race\, nationality\, health vulnerability\, poor working conditions\, and economic exploitation during their migration journeys. With this in mind\, the Nkafu Policy Institute\, a think tank of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation\, is organizing a conversation on the theme “Migrations and Women Empowerment in Central Africa: Facts and Figures.”\n2. Objectives\nThe main objective of this conversation is to address the challenges faced by women migrants while promoting their rights and opportunities for empowerment. More specifically\, it will be a matter of; \nDiscussing strategies to protect the rights of women migrants especially when it comes to human trafficking\, access to health care and protection against violence and harassment.\nExploring ways to empower women migrants economically.\nUnderstanding migration trends and analyzing the increasing trend of women migrating within and beyond Central Africa in search of equality\, economic opportunities\, and autonomy.\nProviding actionable insights to inform policy decisions and promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in central Africa. \n3. Target audience\nThe event targets; policymakers\, government officials\, civil society organizations\, international organizations; academics and researchers; media representatives.\n4. Expected outcome of the event\nParticipants will identify specific vulnerabilities faced by women migrants\, and the need for gender-responsive policies that address the unique challenges women face\, resulting in actionable recommendations to enhance women’s rights and socio-economic conditions in Central Africa. \nContact details  \nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54\nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/migrations-and-women-empowerment-in-central-africa-facts-and-figures/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/migration-sqr.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240904T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240904T163000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104733Z
CREATED:20250127T104733Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104733Z
UID:10000337-1725462000-1725467400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Championing Change: Advocacy for Global Surgery Challenges
DESCRIPTION:Date: September 04\, 2024Time: 3:00pm-4:30pm (CAT/GMT+1)\n9:00am – 10:30am (Colombia/Ecuador\, GMT-5)\,\n5:00pm- 6:30pm (EAT)\nVenue: Zoom\, online (Register Now) \nBackground\nGlobal surgery has been gaining more light and visibility as an important feature in Global Health\, although commonly named as the ‘neglected stepchild of public health’ (1). In a majority of low and middle countries\, access to surgical care is low due to long distance to facilities\, limited number of surgeons/experts and expensive cost associated with surgery and anesthesia (2). Previous research revealed that approximately 2 billion people in the world had limited access to surgical care (3)\, 94% of which are found in low and middle income countries (4). Recognizing the importance of improving weak surgical systems\, the Nkafu Policy Institute\, Operation Smile and the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)\, have come together and identified powerful agents for change\, hailing from countries like Kenya\, Ethiopia\, Rwanda\, Ecuador\, Cameroon and Columbia to advance global surgery through grassroots and policy change. These Fellows have participated in an in-person advocacy training organized in Butaro\, Rwanda alongside their mentors earlier this year and are ready to share their unique advocacy projects with the world for increased access to safe\, timely and affordable surgical and anesthesia care.\nObjectives\nThis webinar aims to: \nShowcase ongoing advocacy projects by GSAF fellows to encourage engagement and support by key players within their areas of intervention;\nTeach advocacy methods using case studies of Fellow projects;\nRaise awareness on surgical care challenges experienced in various communities. \nTargeted Audience\nThis webinar is intended for the global surgery advocacy fellowship applicants\, senior fellows of the program\, health care professionals\, global health leaders\, Policy makers\, researchers\, public health specialists\, university lecturers\, students and health enthusiasts.\nVenue\nThis discussion will be an online event hosted on the Zoom platform and broadcasted on Facebook.\nExpected outputs\nThe expected outputs are:\n– Understood and improved knowledge on surgical challenges experienced in the fellows’ communities;\n– Gained knowledge on the various advocacy strategies that can be used to impact change.\nModerator:\nDr. Ronald Gobina – Director of Health Policy and Research Division\nPanelists \n Pierrette Ngutete Mukundwa\, A global health leader\, Lecturer at UGHE (University of Global Health Equity) \n Juan Carlos Gallego\, ynecologist and professor\, Fundacion Valle del Lili and ICESI University \n Tinsae Abera Worku\, Education and Training Coordinator at Gender Equity Initiative in Global Surgery
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/championing-change-advocacy-for-global-surgery-challenges/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240807T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240807T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104733Z
CREATED:20250127T104733Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104733Z
UID:10000338-1723042800-1723046400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Capacity Building Workshop for Researchers in the ECCAS region
DESCRIPTION:Date: August 07\, 2024Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm\nVenue : Zoom Online (Register Now)\nTopic: Public speaking and eloquence techniques: The essentials \nBackground and Context\nPublic speaking is a presentation that’s given live before an audience. The aim may be to educate\, entertain or influence the audience. Visual aids\, such as an electronic slide show\, are often used to supplement the speech. This makes it more interesting for the audience. Contemporary Leaders records significant examples of public statements by opinion leaders and statesmen who have gone down in history as having achieved significant political change. Salient examples include “I have a dream” by Martin Luther King Jr\, “Yes we can” by Barack Obama\, “I am prepared to die” by Nelson Mandela\, among others. As such\, conducting good quality research is therefore not enough to influence policy or bring about change. How think tanks in Central Africa use the potential of public discourse to advocate\, make their voices heard\, shape policy and inform decision-making when disseminating research can make a big difference. The success or failure of these communication ventures depends largely on the ability of researchers to use public space to persuade target audiences to follow proposed policy recommendations or adopt particular social behaviors. With this in mind\, the Nkafu Policy Institute is organizing a capacity building workshop to strengthen the public speaking skills of think tanks in Central Africa and improve their ability to communicate key messages in public spaces or during their media appearances\, while effectively managing the dynamics of public speaking.\nObjective\nThe overall objective of this capacity building workshop is to ensure that messages are delivered in the most relevant way that will generate engagement from diverse audiences and promote the achievement of expected outcomes. More specifically\, this session will: \nEquip Central African think tank leaders and researchers with public speaking skills and techniques\nHelp participants to identify\, invest in and manage the challenges of public speaking spaces in order to make their voices increasingly heard. \nTarget audience\nThe target audience of this capacity building workshop include think tanks\, researchers\, opinion leaders\, civil society organizations\, grassroots populations\, media organs\, policy and decision-makers.\nExpected outcomes \nCentral Africa think tank leaders and researchers are equipped with skills and techniques of public speaking dynamics\nParticipants are able to identify\, invest and cope with challenges of public speaking spaces \nContact: info@foretiafoundation.org Tel.: (+237) 654 86 72 54.\nRegister
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/capacity-building-workshop-for-researchers-in-the-eccas-region-2/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,RASIG,webinar
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240802T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240802T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104733Z
CREATED:20250127T104733Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104733Z
UID:10000340-1722610800-1722614400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:The Governance of Natural Resources in Central Africa:  Does Community Involvement Matter
DESCRIPTION:Date: August 2\, 2024Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm\nVenue: Zoom Platform (Register now)\nBackground\nIn a report on Africa’s mining regimes\, the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) points out that mineral resources are not being exploited to the great benefit of African economies. Local communities and states are not benefiting optimally\, as evidenced by the continent’s poverty and severe infrastructure deficit (1). Although Africa’s subsoil is rich in mineral\, gas\, and oil resources\, their management is not yet conducive to the continent’s socio-economic development (2). In Central Africa\, in particular\, the challenges are manifold: corruption\, elite capture of revenues\, socio-environmental impacts\, and low local returns (3). In order to reverse this trend\, the African Union (AU) has adopted several instruments that constitute a framework for equitable and optimal governance of natural resources with a view to sustainable growth and socio-economic development. This framework aims to put in place strong institutions to improve transparency and accountability in the management of natural resources so that the benefits accrue more to local populations. Of course\, natural resource governance in Central Africa addresses a number of crucial issues involving economic\, political\, social\, and environmental aspects (4). But to meet these challenges\, local communities and civil society in general must have a say in a participatory approach to natural resource management. What role can civil society play in the governance of natural resources so that their exploitation contributes to the structural transformation of the economies of this sub-region? To answer these questions\, the Nkafu Policy Institute\, a think tank of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation\, is organizing a training on The Governance of Natural Resources in Central Africa: Does Community Involvement Matter? » \nObjective\nThe general objective of this webinar is to analyze the state of participatory governance of natural resources in Central Africa. The focus will be on the contribution of community stakeholders to the governance of these resources in the region. Specifically\, it will focus on: \nStrengthen community and civil society organizations’ understanding of natural resource governance issues in Central Africa;\nPromote consultation and inclusion of local communities in decision-making;\nAdvocate for a more equitable distribution of revenues from these resources;\nFormulate recommendations to strengthen transparency and accountability in natural resource management; \nExpected Outcomes: \nBetter understanding of natural resource governance in central Africa by stakeholders.\nIncreased awareness of the role of the community in the governance of natural resources. \nTarget Audience\nThe event targets participants from various fields of expertise and will enable them to build new relationships and strengthen existing ones. Participants include politicians\, decision-makers\, think tank leaders\, humanitarian organizations\, non-governmental organizations\, academics and researchers\, students\, and civil society actors.\nContact\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54.
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/the-governance-of-natural-resources-in-central-africa-does-community-involvement-matter/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240731T030000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240731T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104733Z
CREATED:20250127T104733Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104733Z
UID:10000341-1722394800-1722441600@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Strengthening Economic Resilience in Francophone Africa: Does Having Reserves in the French Treasury Matter?
DESCRIPTION:Date: July 31 \, 2024Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00pm (GMT 1)\nVenue: Zoom Online (Register Now) \nBackground  \nThe franc zone is made up of 14 countries grouped into two monetary zones: the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) and the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC). These zones both use the CFA\, which is pegged to the euro with the same fixed exchange rate (before 1999\, they were pegged to the French franc). They all have a unique monetary agreement with France\, which entails depositing 50% of their foreign exchange reserves into a so-called Operations Account with the French Treasury. While this arrangement offers some stability\, it can also limit monetary policy flexibility in response to internal and external shocks. Indeed\, this practice\, rooted in colonial agreements\, has been a topic of debate\, with critics arguing that it limits economic autonomy and perpetuates dependence on France. While supporters insist that the CFA franc has become an “African currency” managed by Africans and is a factor in economic integration and monetary and financial stability for them\, France only plays the role of solidarity\, acting in a completely disinterested manner. In recent years\, there have been calls for reforms to provide these nations with more control over their reserves and monetary policy since most of these countries are faced with significant economic challenges\, including vulnerability to external shocks\, limited financial buffers\, and dependence on foreign aid. Building adequate foreign exchange reserves becomes crucial for these countries to manage exchange rate volatility\, intervene in the foreign exchange market\, support essential imports in times of crisis\, and ensure economic stability. With this in mind\, the Nkafu Policy Institute\, a think tank of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation\, is organizing a conversation on the theme “Strengthening Economic Resilience in Francophone Africa: Does Having Reserves in the French Treasury Matter?”\n2. Objectives\nThis conversation aims to promote effective reserve management in Francophone Africa\, enhancing the resilience of the region’s economies and fostering cooperation among policymakers\, central bankers\, and experts. More specifically\, the conversation will consist of; \nExamining existing strategic reserve management practices which involves looking at current policies\, capacities\, and challenges faced by these countries.\nAnalyzing the economic vulnerabilities of Francophone African countries by examining factors like dependence on commodity exports\, susceptibility to natural disasters\, and limited diversification.\nPromoting regional cooperation between Francophone African countries for strategic reserve management.\nProviding actionable insights to inform policy decisions and enhance the resilience of Francophone African economies. \n3. Target audience\nThe event targets Central banks and policymakers from Francophone African countries\, economic experts\, researchers\, development partners\, international organizations\, financial institutions\, political decision-makers\, entrepreneurs\, traders\, academia\, members of civil society\, as well as public and private sector players.\n4. Expected outcome of the event\nCentral banks\, economic experts\, researchers\, entrepreneurs\, academia\, members of civil society\, as well as the general public will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of reserve management in promoting economic resilience\, and learn from successful reserve management strategies and policies implemented by other countries. \nContact details  \nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: ( 237) 654 86 72 54
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/strengthening-economic-resilience-in-francophone-africa-does-having-reserves-in-the-french-treasury-matter/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240717T030000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240717T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104933Z
CREATED:20250127T104933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104933Z
UID:10000344-1721185200-1721232000@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:The Rise of Motorcycles in Cameroon: Consequences and Implications
DESCRIPTION:Date: Thursday\, July 17\, 2024Time : 03:00 to 04:00 PM\nVenue: Zoom\, online (Resgister now)\nBackground\nTransportation systems in most African countries are underdeveloped\, with relatively poor road networks and infrastructure. This has led to an exponential increase in motorcycles as an alternative or major means of transportation. In Cameron\, for instance\, motorcycles have become a predominant mode of transportation in both rural and urban areas\, including major cities such as Yaounde and Douala\, leading to a significant increase in road traffic accidents (RTAs). Riding a motorcycle is generally more dangerous than driving a car because motorcycles don’t have safety features like airbags or seatbelts\, and riders are more vulnerable to collisions. Thus\, motorcycle-related RTAs result in high rates of injuries\, disabilities\, and fatalities\, posing a significant public health concern for the population. Addressing this public health issue requires a coordinated\, multi-stakeholder approach to identify effective interventions. This webinar aims to discuss evidence-based interventions to address this critical issue.\n \nObjectives \nTo analyze factors contributing to motorcycle-related RTAs in Cameroon.\nTo discuss evidence-based strategies and best practices to reduce motorcycle-related RTA\, morbidity and mortality RTAs in Cameroon.\nTo discuss specific recommendations for policymakers to implement to reduce motorcycle-related crashes\, morbidity and mortality in Cameroon. \nTargeted Audience \nGovernment officials (Ministry of Transport\, Ministry of Public Health)\nPolicymakers (Mayors\, parliamentarians\, Senators)\nTraffic police and road safety authorities\nMotocycle rider associations\nPublic health experts and trauma care providers\nTransportation planning and urban design professionals\nCivil society organizations and community representatives\nThe general public\nMedia \nExpected output \nGain knowledge on the implications of motorcycle riders in urban towns.\nUnderstand and improve knowledge road safety measure for motorcycle riders;\nImproved understanding of the public health impact of motorcycle RTA problem in Cameroon\nImprove knowledge\, understanding and recommendations to reduce bike accident\, morbidity and mortality in Cameroon \nVenue\nThis discussion will be an online event hosted on the Zoom platform and broadcasted on Facebook.\nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/the-rise-of-motorcycles-in-cameroon-consequences-and-implications/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,Nkafu Policy Institute,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/BANNER-WEBINAIRE-17-JULY-2-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240711T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240711T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104933Z
CREATED:20250127T104933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104933Z
UID:10000342-1720710000-1720713600@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Capacity Building Workshop for Researchers in the ECCAS region
DESCRIPTION:Date: July 11\, 2024Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm\nVenue : Zoom Online (Register Now)\nTopic: Conducting Quality Data Collection and Analysis \nBackground                                                                                                       \nThink tanks play an important role in providing independent research and strong policy recommendations. However\, those in the ECCAS region still face a lot of difficulty conducting quality research. This poor research performance questions the ability of these think tanks to produce high-quality research. To address this issue\, one way is to build the skills of the region’s researchers. Producing high-quality research requires the use of either a quantitative or qualitative approach. Recently\, qualitative research has gained recognition in various disciplines\, including social sciences\, health\, education\, and business\, as it is helpful in understanding complex human phenomena. It provides in-depth insights that complement quantitative data\, resulting in a holistic understanding of research topics. However\, researchers often face challenges in designing\, conducting\, and analyzing qualitative studies due to a lack of methodological training and limited access to resources. With this in mind\, the Nkafu Policy Institute\, a think tank of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation\, is organizing a training on “Conducting Quality Data Collection and Analysis.”\nObjectives\nThe objective of this training is to build a sustainable foundation for qualitative research capacity for researchers in the ECCAS region. Specifically\, this training aims to: \nEmpower researchers to conduct impactful studies that contribute to the region’s development and well-being\,\nEnhance researchers’ understanding of qualitative research principles\, methodologies\, and ethical considerations.\nEquip researchers with the necessary skills to conduct rigorous qualitative studies\, including data collection\, analysis\, and interpretation.\nPromote the integration of qualitative research findings into policy-making processes and practical applications to address regional challenges effectively. \nExpected Outcomes\nEnhanced proficiency of researchers in qualitative research methodologies.\nTarget Audience\nThis training  is planned for researchers\, leaders from ECCAS think tanks and independent research centers\, particularly women.\nLogistics\nThe training will be held virtually via the Zoom platform and will be held in French and English. It will be live-streamed on the Foretia Foundation & Nkafu Policy Institute websites and social media platforms.\nContact\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54.\nRegister
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/capacity-building-workshop-for-researchers-in-the-eccas-region-3/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,RASIG,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BANNER-Pr-CONSTANTINE-3.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240626T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240626T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T104933Z
CREATED:20250127T104933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T104933Z
UID:10000345-1719414000-1719417600@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Empowering women in Central Africa: Effective strategies for action
DESCRIPTION:Date: 26 June 2024Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm\nVenue : Zoom Online (Register Now)\nTopic: Empowering women in Central Africa: Effective strategies for action\nBackground                                                                                                       \nWomen’s empowerment\, defined as the process by which women acquire the power to make strategic decisions that enable them to gain greater control over resources (income\, assets\, knowledge\, domestic power\, health and mobility)\, is widely recognized as a key factor in economic development. In fact\, women make up more than half of the population\, and their full participation in economic\, social and political life is essential for the prosperity of all.  However\, women in Central Africa continue to face many obstacles to their empowerment\, including discrimination\, violence\, lack of access to education and healthcare\, and limited economic opportunities. Indeed\, according to World Bank\, in 2021\, the labor force participation rate for women in Central Africa was 38.4%\, compared with 54.6% for men. Women are also over-represented in the informal sector\, where they hold insecure\, poorly-paid jobs. In 2021\, their literacy rate\, representation in parliament and the proportion living below the poverty line were 60%\, 12% and 70% respectively\, compared with 75%\, 88% and 60% respectively for men. In addition\, women are victims of sexual and gender-based violence at an alarming rate. In 2021\, 33% of women in Africa have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime by their intimate partner (WHO\, 2021). Despite notable progress\, a number of effective action strategies can be implemented to empower women in Central Africa. These strategies need to be multidimensional\, taking into account the different contexts and challenges facing women in the region. With this in mind\, the Nkafu Policy Institute\, a Think tank of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation  is organizing a webinar on the theme: “Empowering women in Central Africa: effective strategies for action” to reflect on the ideas\, practices and strategies that promote women’s empowerment in Central Africa.\nObjectives:\nThe main objective of this discussion is to explore strategies to promote women’s empowerment in Central Africa and the benefits for women and society as a whole. More specifically\, it will : \nDefine and conceptualize women’s empowerment;\nIdentify women’s empowerment practices;\nIdentify practices that empower women that are the responsability of men\, the state; think tanks\, civil and religious society\, NGOs and international organizations;\nPropose policies that promote women’s empowerment; \nTarget Audience\nThis webinar is planned for Women leaders\, researchers\, and leaders from ECCAS think tanks and independent research centres.\nExpected outcome\nPractical and realistic proposals are formulated by the panel with a view to promoting greater empowerment for women.\nLogistic\nThe webinar will be held virtually via the Zoom platform and will be held in French and English. It will be live-streamed on the Fondation Foretia & Nkafu Policy Institute websites and social media platforms.\nContact\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54.\nRegister Now
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/empowering-women-in-central-africa-effective-strategies-for-action/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BANNER-Empowering-26-JUNE-2-scaled-4fxu95.tmp_.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240522T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240522T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105107Z
CREATED:20250127T105107Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105107Z
UID:10000350-1716390000-1716393600@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Capacity Building Workshop for Researchers in the ECCAS region
DESCRIPTION:Date: 22 May 2024Time: 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm\nVenue : Zoom Online (Register Now)\nTopic: Recruiting and Retaining Best Researchers in Think tanks\nBackground\nAccording to the University of Pennsylvania’s 2021 ranking of the world’s best think tanks and research centers\, African think tanks are poorly represented in the global top 50. Think tanks from countries in the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) are virtually absent from this ranking (McGann\, 2021). The absence of ECCAS think tanks among the best in the world is linked\, in particular\, to the high turnover of researchers within these organizations. According to McGann et al (2017)\, staff members often leave the organization for better-paid positions a few years after being trained. This situation is more noticeable in central Africa\, where think tanks are almost nonexistent. Recruiting and retaining qualified researchers in think tanks in Central Africa is therefore a possible solution to improve their visibility and performance. With this in mind\, the Nkafu Policy Institute\, a think tank at the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation\, is hosting a webinar on the theme: Recruiting and Retaining the Best Researchers in Think Tanks.\nObjective\nThe objective of this webinar is to give an opportunity to ECCAS think tank leaders to share experiences and explore strategies and best practices for attracting and retaining research talents in their organizations. More specifically\, it will focus on: \nThe reasons behind high turnover of researchers in think tanks and research centers in Central Africa;\nInnovative approaches in attracting qualified researchers to ECCAS think tanks;\nEffective strategies in retaining researchers in ECCAS think tanks;\nThe importance of regular capacity building trainings and career development opportunities for researchers. \nTarget Audience\nThis webinar  targets researchers and leaders from ECCAS think tanks and independent research centers.\nExpected outcomes \nImproved knowledge among think tank leaders on how to attract and retain qualified researchers within their organization.\nIncreased awareness among think tank researchers in the need of acquiring longer experience in a specific think tank for their professional growth and career. \nContact\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54.
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/capacity-building-workshop-for-researchers-in-the-eccas-region-4/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,RASIG,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/banner_CBW_square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240516T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240516T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105122Z
CREATED:20250127T105122Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105122Z
UID:10000356-1715871600-1715875200@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Geopolitical implications for the Great Lakes region
DESCRIPTION:Date : May 16\, 2024Time : 03 to 04 pm\nVenue : Online Zoom (Register now) \nBackground \nThe Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has experienced decades of war and violence\, stemming from a complex web of historical\, political\, economic\, and social factors. The conflict’s origins can be found in the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide as a result of a major spill over of ethnic wars in neighbouring Rwanda\, where millions of Rwandans fled into the DRC\, including rebel groups (1). This major conflict which started in 1996\, when Rwanda invaded Zaire to support rebel groups\, has set off a series of wars involving several regional actors including Uganda\, Angola\, Namibia\, Zimbabwe\, etc. Since then\, the war has continued unabated\, with the M23 rebel group and over 250 local and 14 foreign-armed groups active in eastern DRC\, each motivated by different grievances and interests.\nThe presence of these armed groups has resulted in numerous violations of human rights\, population displacements\, and a serious humanitarian crisis particularly in North Kivu\, South Kivu and Ituri provinces. An estimated six million people have been killed and more than six million people have been internally displaced since the war started in 1996 in eastern DRC (2). The conflict has received several interventions from regional and international bodies such as SADC\, ICGLR\, EAC\, AU\, UN\, amongst others. Even though these efforts have resulted in a number of important peace agreements\, the conflict keeps persisting\, threatening to spill over into neighbouring countries in the Great Lakes region\, and posing a threat to regional stability (3). It is against this backdrop that the Nkafu Policy Institute is organizing this webinar to raise awareness about the ongoing violence in the DRC and its geopolitical implications for the Great Lakes region and to propose potential solutions and strategies for addressing the ongoing violence.\n2.    Objective of the webinar\nSpecifically\, the webinar will serve as platform to: \nExamine ongoing conflict dynamics between all actors in view of shaping adapted policy recommendations to inform key policy makers and facilitate decision making on the\nAnalyse the conflict’s geopolitical consequences for the Great Lakes\nRaise awareness on growing humanitarian concerns in the region to mitigate possibilities of a profound and complex humanitarian\nAssess the various regional and international responses in addressing the conflict and humanitarian crisis in the DRC\nPropose possible pathways to resolve the ongoing violence in the DRC and to promote regional \n3.    Target Audience\nThe event targets the African Union\, RECs and RMs\, UN institutions\, development partners\, local CSOs\, experts from the fields of peace and security and the international community.\n4.    Event Format\nThe event will take place online\, via zoom with moderated panel discussions by experts and will be streamed live on Foretia Foundation’s social media platforms.\n5.    Expected Outcome \nDeepened understanding of conflict dynamics in the Great Lakes Region in view of raising early warning alerts on potential\nMore adapted responses from states and international partners to address growing humanitarian concerns in the\nActionable recommendations proposed to support ongoing peace building processes in DRC and in the Great Lakes \n6.    Event Date and Time\nThe event will take place on Thursday 16th May\, 2024 from 3 to 4pm\, Cameroon Time.\n7.    Organisers\nThis event is organised by the Peace and Security Division of the Nkafu Policy Institute a think tank at the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation.\n8.    Contact details\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: ( 237) 22 31 15 84 / 654 86 72 54\n9.    Panelists\nMr. Victor Idumba Mr. Damien Mouzoun\nMs. Vanessa Aboudi (Moderator)\nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/violence-in-the-democratic-republic-of-congo-geopolitical-implications-for-the-great-lakes-region/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,Nkafu Policy Institute,webinar
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240508T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240508T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105122Z
CREATED:20250127T105122Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105122Z
UID:10000354-1715180400-1715184000@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Youths and Political Engagement in Francophone Africa
DESCRIPTION:Date: May 8\, 2024Time: 3pm.- 4pm. (Cameroon time GMT+1)\nVenue: Online (Zoom) REGISTER NOW \nBackground \nAspiration 6 of Agenda 2063 of the African Union (AU)\, places women and youth at the heart of development in Africa (1). Youth in particular constitute more than half of Africa’s population. Those aged 15 to 35 are estimated at more than 400 million by the AU (2). Yet they are marginalised in politics and electoral processes. In Cameroon for example\, although measures have been taken by Elections Cameroon (ELECAM) to increase the registration of youth on the electoral lists (3)\, it should be noted that young people do not always exercise their right of vote at the various electoral events. In addition\, youth\, along with women\, are the “social cadets” when it comes to the distribution of elective positions. Youth are either absent or under-represented in the National Assembly\, the Senate\, the local and regional councils. As the presidential and local elections are approaching in Cameroon\, the Nkafu Policy Institute of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation is organising a conversation to better understand the contours of the political engagement of youth in French-speaking Africa\, based on the experience of Cameroon.\n2. Objectives\nThe overall objective of this conversation is to analyse the participation and engagement of youth in politics and in electoral processes in Africa in general and in Cameroon in particular.\nSpecifically\, it aims at: \nAnalysing the evolution of youth’s political engagement and participation;\nAnalysing the systemic\, political\, socio-economic and cultural factors that positively and/or negatively influence the political engagement and participation of youth;\nIdentifying the expectations\, concerns and perceptions of youth regarding the electoral process ;\nProposing concrete solutions to encourage youth to become actively involved in the democratic process. \n3. Event format\nThe event will take place online\, via Zoom\, and will be broadcast live on the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation’s social media platforms.\n4. Date and time of the event\nThe event will take place on May 8\, 2024 from 3:00 pm. to 4:00 pm. Cameroon time (GMT+1).\n5. Organizers\nThis event is organized by the Governance and Democracy Division of the Nkafu Policy Institute\, a Think tank of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation.\n6. Panelists? \n Donald Malomba Esembe\, Member of Parliament for the Buea city council of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement ( CPDM ).\n Pippie Hugues \, Policy Analyst in Governance and Democracy (Moderator)\, Nkafu Policy Institute. \n7. Participants\nThis debate is organized by the Governance and Democracy Division of the Nkafu Policy Institute. It is open to all without restriction.\n8. Contacts\nFor more information\, please contact us by email at: info@foretiafoundation.org or by telephone at: (+237) 222 31 15 84 / 654 86 72 54.\nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/youths-and-political-engagement-in-francophone-africa/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,Governance & Democracy Division,webinar
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240422T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240422T150000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105122Z
CREATED:20250127T105122Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105122Z
UID:10000355-1713794400-1713798000@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Addressing Inequality and Informality Towards Inclusive Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa
DESCRIPTION:Date: April 22\, 2024Time: 9:00 am (D.C. Time)\, 2:00 pm (Cameroon Time)\nDuration: 90 minutes\nPlatform: Zoom Webinar (Register)\nContext:\nSub-Saharan Africa faces a myriad of challenges including governance\, rule of law\, security and ballooning unemployment. While there has been some progress\, economic growth has been characteristically slow and not inclusive. Despite the region’s vast potential and abundant natural resources\, many countries continue to face significant challenges in fostering broad-based and sustainable economic development. High levels of inequality\, limited access to opportunities\, and persistent barriers to participation in the formal economy have hindered efforts to ensure that growth benefits all segments of society. Addressing these issues requires innovative approaches and collaborative efforts from policymakers\, researchers\, and civil society actors.\nObjective:\nIn this 90-minute webinar we will explore strategies to tackle inequality and informality towards fostering inclusive growth in the region. Panelists will share their insights\, experiences\, and recommendations on addressing inequality and informality to promote inclusive growth and the creation of good paying jobs. The discussion will cover topics such as policy interventions\, economic reforms\, social protection measures\, and inclusive development strategies.\nStructure: \nWelcome and Overview (5 minutes): Introduction of the webinar topic and\nModerated Panel Discussion (40 minutes): Moderated discussion on key themes related to addressing inequality and informality towards inclusive growth. Panelists share insights\, experiences\, and strategies.\nPerspectives from sector leaders (8 minutes): Brief remarks from three individuals representing different sectors or perspectives (e.g.\, government\, academia\, civil society). Each individual shares their views on the topic and highlights key priorities or actions.\nInteractive Audience Discussion with Panelists (25 minutes): Open floor for audience members to share their thoughts\, ask questions\, and engage with panelists and speakers. Facilitated by the moderator to ensure diverse participation and meaningful discussion.\nWrap Up (8 minutes): Summary of key insights and takeaways from the webinar. Closing remarks by the moderator \nPanelists:\nDr Rose Ngugi\, Executive Director\, KIPPRA – Kenya\nKah Walla\, Chief ExecutiveOfficer\, STRATEGIES!\, Cameroon\nGerda Van Niekerk\, Ph.D.\, Associate Professor\, University of Limpopo\, South Africa\nJunien Nze Biyoghe Economist\, Independent Research and Capacity Building Center for Development\, Togo\nModerator:\nDr Denis Foretia\, Executive Chairman – Nkafu Policy Institute\, Cameroon\nComment #1:\nProfessor Emmanuel Ongo\, Director\, CEREG\, University of Yaoundé 2\, Cameroon.\n Comment #2:\nEugenia Kayitesi\, Executive Director\, Institute of Policy Analysis and Research IPAR-Rwanda\nExpected Outcomes: \nParticipants will gain a deeper understanding of the root causes of inequality and informality in Sub-Saharan Africa\, with heightened awareness of the challenges faced by marginalized\nAttendees will acquire insights into innovative strategies and best practices aimed at promoting inclusive growth and reducing inequality in the region\, empowering them with actionable knowledge to drive change.\nThe webinar will encourage collaboration among diverse stakeholders\, including policymakers\, academics\, practitioners\, and civil society organizations\, fostering partnerships for collective action towards addressing inequality and informality.\nAttendees become inspired and motivated to take concrete steps towards promoting inclusive growth in their respective spheres of influence. \nThroughout the webinar\, there will be ample opportunities for audience engagement and participation. Attendees will be encouraged to ask questions\, share their perspectives\, and contribute to the discussion through live polls\, Q&A sessions\, and interactive chat features. The interactive nature of the event will ensure deep contributions from the audience and facilitate knowledge exchange among participants.\nAbout the Nkafu Policy Institute:\nThe Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank dedicated to offering independent and insightful policy recommendations aimed at fostering prosperity for all Africans within free\, fair\, democratic\, and sustainable economies. The Institute brings together analysts\, experts\, and researchers from across the globe\, focusing on various fields including governance and democracy\, health and education\, peace and security\, science and technology\, as well as economic policy.\nContact Details:\nJean Cedric Kouam\, Ph.D.\,                                            Bruno Ittia Achuo.\,\nDirector of Economic Affairs\,                                           Deputy Director of Communications\nNkafu Policy Institute                                                       Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation\nJKouam@foretiafoundation.org                                        BAchuo@foretiafoundation.org\nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/addressing-inequality-and-informality-towards-inclusive-growth-in-sub-saharan-africa/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240327T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240327T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105338Z
CREATED:20250127T105338Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105338Z
UID:10000365-1711551600-1711555200@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Chronic kidney disease: Burden\, determinants and prevention
DESCRIPTION:Date & Time : March 27\, 2024 – 03 pm to 04 pmVenue : Zoom Online (Register now)\nBackground\nChronic Kidney Disease (CKD)\, has emerged as one of the most prominent causes of death and suffering in the 21st century. It is a progressive condition that affects 13.4% of the general population\, accounting for over 800 million individuals worldwide with between 4.90 and 7.08 million patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) needing kidney replacement therapy. In 2020\, the World Health Organization (WHO) ranked CKD as the 10th leading cause of death and is expected to become the fifth leading cause of life lost by 2040. This disease affects individuals from low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) disproportionately\, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.  A study reported a CKD age-standardized prevalence of 8.6% and 9.6% in men and women\, respectively\, in high-income countries\, and 10.6% and 12.5% in men and women\, respectively\, in low- and middle-income countries. The results of a meta-analysis from 21 studies\, showed that the prevalence of CKD in LMIC was 13.9%\, and another study showed that Central Africa (16%)\, and West Africa (16.5%) had the highest prevalence’s in Africa. The burden of kidney disease in Africa is substantial\, growing\, and driven by complex and multifaceted interactions between communicable and noncommunicable diseases\, shaped by upstream environmental\, genetic factors\, and socioeconomic disparities such as poverty\, malnutrition\, and limited access to healthcare. In addition\, the magnitude of the attention attributed to CKDs in Africa is relatively low in view of the scope of the problem it represents. There have been few concerted efforts across Africa to produce accurate estimates that might sufficiently guide health care planning and policy development to address the effects of CKDs\, despite mounting evidence of an increasing incidence of the disease. The prevention\, detection\, risk factors mitigation and management of kidney disease should be enhanced to reduce the incidence of catastrophic health expenditure resulting from treatment of kidney disease. A comprehensive\, informed approach that considers all these factors is therefore necessary. This podcast will thus aim to throw more light on the actual situation of CKD in Africa\, analyzing the different factors contributing to its propagation and proposing possible solutions to reduce its burden in Africa.\nObjectives \nEnhance general knowledge on the onset of CKD\nDescribe the Burden of CKD in Africa (Socio economic and health related)\nDescribe the determinants and existing prevention strategies to combat CKD in Africa\nDiscuss on the challenges in accessing CKD care in Africa\nExplore health policies in place to tackle CKD in Africa\nPropose some possible milestones in attaining a better CKD management in Africa \nExpected results.\nWe are expecting to share information on the actual state of CKD in Africa with a target audience of 10\,000 people. In addition\, this podcast is expected to increase the visibility of the institute\, enable discussions with enthusiasts in the domain and create leadership in the field of kidney diseases management.\nTarget Audience\nThis podcast is intended for everybody in all domains who wish to know more about the actual situation of kidney disease in Africa.\nVenue\nThis podcast will be recorded in partnership with the communication department (graphics unit) of the foundation who will decide on the appropriate platform for the podcast.\nProposed speakers\n1) Dr Gobina Ronald\,\nNephrologist\, Director of Health Division\, Nkafu Policy Institute\, Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation.\n2) Dr Tataw James\nConsultant Nephrologist\, Hopitaux Universitaires de Geneve\n3) Dr Maji Joseph Usman\, MWACP\nInternal medicine Nephrologist\, Federal Medical Centre\, Keffi\, Nigeria\n4) Dr. Nzana Victorine\nNephrologist\, Yaounde Central Hospital\n5) Dr Nolubabalo Unati Nqebelele\nConsultant Nephrologist\, South Africa\nModerator\nMrs. Ngwang Diana Joyce\nHealth Journalist and host of Health Update\, Vision 4 TV\nRegister now
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/chronic-kidney-disease-burden-determinants-and-prevention/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,Health Policy and Research Division,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Chronic-kidney-Disease_square_EN.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240305T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240305T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105541Z
CREATED:20250127T105541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105541Z
UID:10000248-1709650800-1709654400@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Conversation with Dr Jacob KOTCHO
DESCRIPTION:Date: 5 March 2024Time: 3.00 pm – 4.00 pm (GMT+1)\nVenue: Online event (Register Now)\nBackground  \nDuring the 14th Conference of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) held in Kinshasa in October 2009\, a decision was made to accelerate the  rationalization process of the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) in Central Africa. The Council of Ministers of the Steering Committee for the Rationalization of the Regional Economic Communities in Central Africa (Comité de Pilotage de la Rationalisation des Communautés Économiques Régionales en Afrique Centrale – COPIL/CER-AC)\, which met in Yaoundé on 11 and 12 August\, examined and validated the draft Constitutive Treaty of the new Regional Economic Community (REC)\, which will replace ECCAS and CEMAC. Several difficulties were identified and the Council recommended that the States\, ECCAS and CEMAC meet their financial obligations to COPIL/CER-AC in order to speed up the rationalization process. The Council also recommended that the institutions of the Communauté Économique des Pays des Grands Lacs (CEPGL) be integrated into the new structure of the future REC\, pending the decisions of its decision-making bodies. The aim is to align the integration process with the objectives of the AU and to address the low level of trade between Central African countries\, the small size of sub-regional markets and the existence of a multitude of different community organizations in a context of scarce resources. This implies absorbing and merging these RECs so that they are synchronized (African Union\, 2005). Streamlining should also include standardizing and harmonizing the strategies\, programs\, sectoral projects and cooperation instruments of existing institutions. To date\, some progress has been made\, including the unification of the ECCAS and CEMAC free trade areas; the drafting of a customs code\, a common external tariff and a common trade policy; the adoption of twelve priority areas for rationalization (trade\, health\, free movement of persons and goods\, mechanisms for financing integration\, security\, budgetary and monetary rules\, approximation of institutional frameworks\, etc.); the reorganization of the CEMAC and ECCAS action plans; and the adoption of a common trade policy); the reorganization of the COPIL/CER-AC Action Plan\, which now runs from 2018 to 2023. With the new REC which was supposed to come into operation in 2023\, it is time to take stock of the progress made\, the difficulties that remain and the means to overcome them.\nObjectives\nThe main objective of this conversation is to discuss the progress of the rationalization process of the Regional Economic Communities in Central Africa\, as well as strategies to facilitate and accelerate the process. More specifically\, the conversation will consist of: \nDiscussing the different types of rationalization of economic communities and their strengths and weaknesses in the Central African context.\nDiscussing the preconditions and challenges that are essential for the success of the process of rationalization of RECs in Central Africa.\nDiscussing the priority measures to be implemented by the countries in order to seize all the opportunities for the rationalization of Regional Economic Communities. \nExpected Outcomes\nCentral African States\, businesses\, organizations\, administrations\, academics and populations are urged to be aware of their key role in actively promoting the rationalization process between the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC).\nTarget audience\nThe event targets public and private institutions\, international trade experts\, development partners\, political decision-makers\, entrepreneurs\, traders\, academia and members of civil society\, as well as private sector players in Central Africa.\nContact\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org  / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/conversation-with-dr-jacob-kotcho/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Conversation-with-Dr-Jacob-KOTCHO-03-03-03.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240301T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240301T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105526Z
CREATED:20250127T105526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105526Z
UID:10000370-1709305200-1709308800@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Entrepreneurship\, Stakes\, and Challenges in Reducing Unemployment and Underemployment of Youths in Cameroon.
DESCRIPTION:SMALL BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER (SBEC) WEBINARMarch 1st 2024\, 03 :00 pm (Cameroon Time) \nBackground \n“Youth unemployment is a time bomb”(Alexander Chikwanda\, former Zambian Minister of Finance)\, this quote alone explains the importance attached to the fight against youth unemployment and underemployment by African governments. According to the World Bank\, young people account for 60% of Africa’s unemployed. In Cameroon\, the unemployment and underemployment rates are reported at 3.3%\, based on the National Institute of Statistics (INS) Third Survey on Employment and the Informal Sector in Cameroon (EESI3) conducted in 2023\, with an overall working population of 54.2%. Within this working population\, 50.9% are employed\, while the underemployment rate has already reached 65% (INS\, 2021).\nEntrepreneurship is one of the possible solutions to this problem\, given the limited capacity of African governments\, including Cameroon\, to absorb the majority of young people into the civil service. Furthermore\, entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in alleviating poverty. However\, the process of business creation and development with the aim of reducing unemployment and underemployment in the country requires an enabling environment that provides sufficient physical\, financial\, human\, informational and relational resources and ensures their quality and quantity. The SBEC Department of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation is organizing a webinar on this topic with the aim of strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Cameroon to play its part in reducing unemployment and underemployment\, under the theme: Entrepreneurship\, Stakes and Challenges in Reducing Youths Unemployment and Underemployment in Cameroon. \nObjectives  \nThe main objective of this webinar is to strengthen Cameroon’s entrepreneurial ecosystem to better address youth unemployment and underemployment. The specific objectives are as follows: \nOutline strategies to overcome the challenges of entrepreneurship development in Cameroon\nPromote youth entrepreneurship and self-employment\nEvaluate the effectiveness of existing policies for the fight against unemployment and underemployment of youths in Cameroon. \nTarget audience \nThis event is open to Students\, Entrepreneurs\, Public and Private SME Support Structures\, Civil Societies\, Policy Makers\, Financial Institutions\, Investment Promotion Institutions\, International Organization for Cooperation and Development\, Business Consulting Firms and the general public. \nContact  \nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org  / Tel: (+237) 22 31 15 84 / 654 86 72 54\nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/entrepreneurship-stakes-and-challenges-in-reducing-unemployment-and-underemployment-of-youths-in-cameroon/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Events,Small Business & Entrepreneurship Center,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/SBEC-square-webinar-banner_French-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240215T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240215T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105541Z
CREATED:20250127T105541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105541Z
UID:10000244-1708009200-1708012800@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Reforming Electoral Processes for Structural Transformations in Central Africa
DESCRIPTION:Date: February 15\, 2024Time: 03pm-04:00pm\nVenue: Zoom Online (Register now)\n \nBackground\nIn democratic societies\, elections and electoral institutions are vital to political stability and transitions. Put differently\, electoral process and institutions carry with them aspects of legitimacy and consent. To improve on elections\, electoral processes and institutions must be conceptualized as broader political processes\, not just as events. Conducting elections regularly usually indicate a vibrant democracy. In some African countries\, fair electoral processes “have facilitated the emergence of democratic government”\, says International Peace Institute. People can judge a democracy by the electoral process and institutions of the country. A worrying trend in some African countries is the occurrence of pre- and post-elections disputes and claims that usually interrupt political transitions\, sometimes leading to national disunity. Fueling these disputes are deep suspicions and mistrust of electoral processes and institutions\, whose transparency are often questioned. In fact\, transparent elections are vital to preventing conflict\, argues Afrobarometer. This webinar delves into how reforming the electoral process and institutions can help improve democracy and foster good governance in Central Africa.\nMain Objective of the webinar  \nThis webinar’s main objective is to talk about elections and electoral institutions as being vital to political stability and transition. More specifically\, it will: \nExplore various trends of elections in Central Africa;\nReiterate the importance of electoral institutions in political stability and change in Central Africa;\nDiscuss aspects of suspicion and mistrust of electoral systems in Central Africa;\nPropose in-depth policy recommendations to stakeholders on how to improve on electoral institutions and processes in Central Africa. \nTarget Audience\nOur target audience include think tanks\, governments\, diplomatic bodies\, academia\, researchers\, international organizations\, human rights organizations\, and individuals interested in elections and electoral institutions in Central Africa.\nExpected Outcome\nIncreased public awareness of the key role of elections and electoral institutions in Central Africa’s structural transformation in a rapidly changing world.\nContact details\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org  / Tel: (+237) 22 31 15 84 / 654 86 72 54\nREGISTER NOW
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/reforming-electoral-processes-for-structural-transformations-in-central-africa/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,RASIG,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Webinar-Electoral-05-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231207T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231207T163000
DTSTAMP:20250127T105942Z
CREATED:20250127T105942Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T105942Z
UID:10000375-1701961200-1701966600@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Session 7 – Capacity Building Workshop for Researchers in the ECCAS Region
DESCRIPTION:Date: December  07\, 2023Time: 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm\nVenue : Online Zoom (Register now)\nTheme: Disseminating results of research projects\nBackground                                                                                                        \nIndependent think tanks and research centres around the world play a key role in shaping policy\, whether economic or social. These important contributions and the emerging global trends of think tanks around the world make them significant contributors to governments and civil societies. According to the University of Pennsylvania’s 2019 ranking of the world’s best think tanks and research centres\, African think tanks are poorly represented in the global top 50. Think tanks from countries in the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) are virtually absent from this ranking (McGann\, 2019).\nThis non-representation of ECCAS think tanks among the best in the world in the 2019 Go To Think Tank report published by the University of Pennsylvania is linked in particular to academic performance\, the quality and reputation of the research and analyses produced\, i.e. their capacity to produce high-quality\, rigorous\, policy-oriented research that is accessible to decision-makers\, the media and the public. This multifactorial underperformance calls on ECCAS think tanks\, whose role is to raise awareness through publications\, scientific essays and relevant policy recommendations\, to make more consistent efforts.\nIn view of the above\, strengthening the research skills of think tank staff is a possible solution to improve their visibility and performance. To this end\, the Nkafu Policy Institute is setting up an exchange platform for think tanks and independent research centres in Central Africa to share experiences and capitalise on lessons learned in research\, in order to become more visible and influential at regional\, continental and global levels. This exchange platform will take the form of collaborative online capacity building sessions for ECCAS think tanks.\nObjectives\nThis capacity building workshop for researchers from think tanks and research centers in the ECCAS region aims to capitalize on research opportunities in key areas such as individual rights\, governance and accountability\, and regional integration. Specifically\, it will focus on: \nDeepening general research knowledge\nImproving skills in policy proposal presentation and scientific writing\nCapitalizing on research communication skills and knowledge\nOptimizing the implementation\, monitoring and evaluation of research projects \nTarget Audience\nThese capacity building sessions are planned for researchers from ECCAS think tanks and independent research centres\, particularly women.\nExpected output\nAt the end of the different sessions\, participants will have acquired additional in-depth skills to conduct independent\, evidence-based research. The training will also enable researchers across the ECCAS region to strengthen collaborations with different national and international stakeholders.\nLogistic\nThe workshop will be held virtually via the Zoom platform and will be held in French and English. It will be live-streamed on the Fondation Foretia & Nkafu Policy Institute websites and social media platforms.\nContact\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54.\nRegister now
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/session-7-capacity-building-workshop-for-researchers-in-the-eccas-region/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,RASIG,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BANNER-Mr.-Bazika-1-scaled-eDQzcu.tmp_.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231122T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231122T160000
DTSTAMP:20250127T110342Z
CREATED:20250127T110342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T110342Z
UID:10000258-1700665200-1700668800@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Assessing the Role of Women in Leveraging Private Sector Engagement in Central Africa
DESCRIPTION:Date : Wednesday\, November 22\, 2023Time : 03:00 pm-04:00 pm\nVenue : Zoom Online (Register now)\nThis webinar is organized thanks to the support of Open Society Foundations-Africa (OSF-Africa)\nBackground\nWhen countries invest in women economically\, there are direct benefits to the society\, visible in poverty reduction\, economic growth\, and women’s dignity. According to the UN Women\, empowering women is a means of attaining gender equality\, which in turn fosters economic and sustainable development. Women constitute a huge proportion of the low paid and unpaid economic activities such as care and household work\, but there is as well revealing data about their entrepreneurial spirit. A recent study by the African Development Bank reveals that Africa has the highest percentage of women entrepreneurs in the world’. In fact\, 25.9% of women are either starting or managing a business in sub-Saharan Africa. This evidence is compelling and supports the claim that empowering women economically can boost the private sector in Africa. With this in mind\, the Nkafu Policy Institute is organizing a webinar on the theme “Assessing the Role of Women in Leveraging Private Sector Engagement in Central Africa”.\nMain Objective of the webinar\nThis webinar’s primary objective is to highlight the role that women (can) play in stimulating private sector in the Central African region. More specifically\, we will focus on: \nThe influence women exercise in the private sector of the economy;\nThe role of women in job creation and poverty alleviation;\nThe role of think tanks in promoting women’s participation in private sector development;\nProposing in-depth policy recommendations to stakeholders on the benefits that society accrues from women’s economic empowerment. \nTarget Audience\nThis event targets policymakers\, think tanks\, government agencies\, diplomatic bodies\, academics\, researchers\, international organizations\, and individuals interested in regional blocs. The event will take place online via the Zoom platform. It will also be live streamed on the Foretia Foundation’s social media platforms.\nExpected Outcome\nHighlights of the influential role that women are playing in the private sector are shared for the benefit of policy makers and the public.\nAbout Open Society Foundations-Africa\nOSF-Africa’s vision is to build a globally respected\, dynamic and integrated Africa characterized by democratic governance\, sustainable development and economic systems that produce more just\, inclusive and accountable outcomes with and for Africa’s people and environment. In pursuit of this vision\, OSF-Africa’s mission is to advance gender justice and women’s rights\, deepen democracy\, accountable governance and inclusive development in Africa through participatory and strategic grant making and advocacy. https://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/\nContact details\nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org  / Tel: (+237) 654 86 72 54\nRegister now
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/assessing-the-role-of-women-in-leveraging-private-sector-engagement-in-central-africa/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,Events,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/BANNER-Nov-color-gris.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231117T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231117T163000
DTSTAMP:20250127T110543Z
CREATED:20230824T081328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250127T110543Z
UID:10000009-1700233200-1700238600@www.foretiafoundation.org
SUMMARY:Democratization: An African Perspective
DESCRIPTION:Date : November 17th\, 2023\,Time : 3:00-4:00 pm\, Cameroon Time. (TBC)\nVenue : Zoom Online (Register now) \nBackground \nThe end of the Cold War is usually cited as a landmark period in the democratic process in Africa. This wind of change that primarily blew across Eastern Europe in the 1990s was believed to usher Africa into a new democratic era. There were prospects of reshaping the African political landscape and order\, a shift from the way the continent was governed since independence(1). Despite the euphoria\, many African countries still experience political instability and civil unrest\, raising questions as to why these countries encounter difficulties in practising western model of democracy (2). On the one hand\, are Africans who believe that western democratic practices are alien to Africa while others emphasize that African culture is to blame for the failure of this form of democracy in the continent. It is against this backdrop that the Governance and Democracy Division of the Nkafu Policy Institute is organizing a webinar focusing on democracy and democratization processes from an African Perspective. \nObjective of the webinar \nThe main objective of this webinar is to examine the reasons why African countries are finding it difficult to adapt to the democratic processes. \nTarget Audience  \nThe event targets governance and democracy experts\, policymakers\, the African Union African Regional Economic Communities \, government agencies\, diplomatic bodies\, parastatal\, academics\, researchers\, international organizations\, and civil society organizations. \nEvent Format  \nThe event will take place online via Zoom with panel discussions by peace and security experts from selected think tanks\, and will be streamed live on Foretia Foundation’s social media platforms. \nExpected output \nTo produce evidence-based policy recommendations to African policymakers\, as well as international foreign policy experts\, who can strengthen democratic processes efforts in Africa \nExpected Outcome \nIt is expected that the forum will act as an avenue that provides a perspective that will inform stakeholders and policy makers  on the need to revisit democratization process in Africa and address the challenges they face or reconsider adopting the African model of democracy for the Africa we want. \nEvent Date and Time  \nThe event will take place on Thursday November 17th\, 2023\, at 3:00-4:00 pm\, Cameroon Time. (TBC) \nOrganisers \nThis event is organised by the Governance and Democracy Division of the Nkafu Policy Institute– a think tank at the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation. \nContact details \nEmail: info@foretiafoundation.org  or ftazoacha@foretiafoundation.org/ Tel: (+237) 679466117 / 654 86 72 54\nRegister now
URL:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/events/democratization-an-african-perspective/
LOCATION:Zoom Online
CATEGORIES:Event,webinar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.foretiafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/BANNER-VANESSA-eng.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Nkafu Policy Institute":MAILTO:info@foretiafoundation_org
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR