Our Strategies
Policy and Legislative Advocacy
Our Policy and Legislative Advocacy efforts are focused on shaping policies and laws that strengthen the civic space and promote social justice. We engage with policymakers, legislators, and key stakeholders to advocate for reforms that empower civil society organizations and protect the rights of marginalized groups. By influencing policy at local, national, and regional levels, we strive to create an enabling environment for sustainable development and inclusive governance.
Key Activities:
- Drafting and promoting policy recommendations.
- Organizing advocacy campaigns and lobbying efforts.
- Building coalitions to amplify our policy advocacy.
Research
Research is the foundation of our work at RACE. We conduct rigorous studies to understand the complex social, economic, and political dynamics that impact African communities. Our research informs our programs and strategies, ensuring they are evidence-based and effectively address the root causes of issues. By generating and disseminating knowledge, we empower civil society organizations and policymakers with the information they need to make informed decisions.
Key Activities:
- Conducting research on institutional development, gender justice, environmental sustainability, democracy, and governance.
- Publishing reports, policy briefs, and case studies.
- Hosting knowledge-sharing forums and seminars.
Movement Building
Movement Building is at the core of our approach to civic engagement. We believe in the power of collective action and work to unite diverse organizations and individuals around common goals. By fostering collaboration and solidarity, we strengthen the capacity of civil society to drive social change and hold governments accountable. Our movement-building efforts are focused on creating strong networks that can mobilize resources, share knowledge, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.
Key Activities:
- Facilitating coalitions and alliances across civil society organizations.
- Organizing regional and continental convenings to strategize and collaborate.
- Supporting grassroots movements and community organizing efforts.
Mentorship
Through our Mentorship programs, we invest in the next generation of leaders who will drive social change across Africa. We provide emerging leaders and organizations with the guidance, skills, and resources they need to succeed. Our mentorship initiatives focus on leadership development, capacity building, and personal growth, ensuring that mentees are well-equipped to lead resilient and impactful institutions.
Key Activities:
- Pairing young leaders with experienced mentors in their field.
- Offering training programs on leadership, organizational management, and advocacy.
- Providing ongoing support and networking opportunities.
Solidarity
Solidarity is a fundamental value at RACE. We believe that lasting change can only be achieved through mutual support and collective action. We work to build a culture of solidarity among civil society organizations, encouraging them to support one another in times of need and collaborate on shared goals. Our solidarity initiatives are designed to foster trust, cooperation, and a sense of community across diverse organizations and movements.
Key Activities:
- Creating platforms for dialogue and collaboration among civil society organizations.
- Providing emergency support and crisis response to partner organizations.
- Promoting joint initiatives and campaigns that advance shared goals.
Self Care
At RACE, we recognize the importance of Self Care in sustaining the efforts of individuals and organizations working for social change. We promote practices that prioritize the well-being of activists, leaders, and community members, ensuring they have the mental, emotional, and physical resources needed to continue their work. By integrating self-care into our strategies, we help prevent burnout and foster a culture of resilience and sustainability within the civic space.
Key Activities:
- Offering workshops and resources on stress management, mental health, and wellness.
- Encouraging organizations to incorporate self-care into their operational practices.
- Providing support networks for individuals experiencing burnout or trauma.