Research, Evaluation and Learning

We are proud to have collaborated with leading organizations to produce impactful publications that shape the landscape of civil society in Africa.

Our strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions such as WACSI, Innovation for Change, and the Fund for Global Human Rights have resulted in transformative projects that address pressing challenges in development aid, funding sustainability, social accountability, and community empowerment.

Shifting the Power Programme (StP)

We are proud to serve as the Research and Learning Coordinator for the Shifting the Power Programme (StP) — a groundbreaking 10-year initiative redefining development from the ground up.

About the Programme

The Shifting the Power Programme is a flagship partnership between Comic Relief and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). With a £60 million investment, it aims to support locally-led civil society organisations (CSOs) in Ghana, Zambia, and Malawi to become more sustainable, effective, and aligned with community-driven priorities.

Discover Major Projects

1. Decolonizing Aid: Perspectives From Civil Society In Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa

Commissioned by WACSI in 2023, with funding from Robert Bosch Stiftung, this study provides critical insights into the evolving dynamics of aid, exploring the implications of decolonizing aid frameworks. This research worked highlighted the need for a paradigm shift that empowers local communities and enhances their agency in the development process, ensuring that initiatives are more responsive to the needs of those they aim to serve.

2. Guidebook on Alternative Funding Models for Civil Society Organisations in Africa

Developed by Kabod and published by Innovation for Change, this guidebook compiles 12 innovative funding strategies tailored to help CSOs achieve financial sustainability. Through providing organizations with alternative funding options, this research project enhanced the resilience and adaptability of CSOs in a competitive funding landscape, ensuring the sustainability of essential civil society initiatives. Read the full report

3. Overcoming Development Aid Fatigue: Deciding Together and Shifting Power to Communities in Africa

This groundbreaking study, commissioned and published by WACSI, tackled donor fatigue and advocates for community-led development solutions. Through an emphasis on participatory approaches, the findings encouraged donors and civil society to collaborate more effectively, fostering trust and shared ownership in development initiatives, which is crucial for developing sustainable solutions

4. Advancing Financial Sustainability of Civil Society in Africa

This publication by WACSI offers practical insights into strategies that bolster the financial resilience of African CSOs. By identifying key practices and models, the study provided organizations with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of funding and enhance their operational sustainability, ensuring they can continue to implement programs that benefit their communities

5. Strengthening Stakeholders' Collaboration to Expand Civic Space in West Africa

Commissioned by the Fund for Global Human Rights and published by WACSI, this report outlines successful strategies for fostering partnerships that defend and expand civic space across West Africa. By highlighting collaborative approaches, our research promoted a more inclusive civil society landscape, essential for the protection of human rights and democratic values, which in turn enhanced civic participation and accountability.

6. Exploring Faith-Based Giving as an Alternative Funding Model for CSOs

This unique study commissioned and published by WACSI examined how faith-based philanthropy can serve as a viable funding source for civil society organizations. It opened new avenues for funding while emphasizing the importance of ethical giving and community engagement in development initiatives, broadening the funding landscape for CSOs and ensuring they can secure resources from various channels

7. Social Movements: A Vital Instrument for Social Accountability in Africa

Commissioned and published by WACSI, this analysis investigated how social movements influence policy and accountability within African governance systems. By showcasing the power of grassroots activism, it underscored the role of citizen engagement in shaping democratic governance and accountability, promoting active citizenship as essential for social change

8. Lessons Learned from Social Accountability Initiatives in West Africa

Published by Innovation for Change, this evaluation project shared critical insights from various social accountability projects. This project served as a resource for CSOs seeking to enhance transparency and governance in their communities, ultimately fostering a culture of accountability.

9. Enhancing Digital Security Awareness for CSOs in Africa

A crucial publication commissioned and published by WACSI, this work equiped civil society organizations with essential knowledge to protect their digital infrastructure. In an era of increasing cyber threats, it emphasized the importance of digital security for the sustainability and effectiveness of civil society initiatives, enabling organizations to maintain their operations and safeguard their data.

10. Social Movements & Social Change in Africa

Commissioned and published by WACSI, this publication analyzes the role of social movements in catalyzing significant social, political, and economic reforms. The project highlighted the potential for collective action to drive transformative change across the continent, reinforcing the significance of solidarity in social justice efforts

11. The Journey to Sustainability for Selected CSOs in Ghana: Experiences, Milestones, Challenges, and Lessons Learnt

This comprehensive analysis for WACSI & STAR-Ghana (2021) documents the experiences of selected civil society organizations in Ghana. By reflecting on their journeys, it offers valuable insights into the challenges and successes faced by CSOs, providing a roadmap for others aiming for sustainability and strengthening their operational frameworks.