Philanthropic Deserts in West and Francophone Africa: A Conversation with Gates Foundation and Segal Family Foundation
African‑led organizations, driven by proximate leaders closest to the challenges they address, remain chronically underfunded. They receive less than 2% of global philanthropic funding, with most directed to East Africa, leaving West and Francophone Africa as philanthropic deserts. Historic giving trends from donors indicate that many countries in this part of Africa are severely overlooked despite innovations and high impact, especially where needs are greatest. What is causing this disproportionate attention, and where can philanthropic investments make a significant difference?
The Segal Family Foundation and the Gates Foundation are two of the few legacy foundations funding in West and Francophone Africa, yet their strategies differ greatly and leave ample room for new high impact funders to support this region.
Join Myriad USA for a candid, in-depth conversation with these two pioneering funders. They’ll share insights on why they are investing in this region and what it takes to give effectively, including navigating language and culture, building trust with key partners, and structuring philanthropic capital for lasting impact. Register here to join us live.
You will learn:
- How giving strategies differ between these two prominent funders supporting West and Francophone Africa, a region that currently receives the lowest levels of funding on the continent
- Where critical funding gaps exist and where there are engagement and investment opportunities for donors
- The role intermediaries play in bridging cultural and language gaps to help drive more diverse, sustainable funding streams
You will hear from:
Moderator: Kady Sylla, Director, Africa & Middle East, Myriad USA
Speaker: Dedo Baranshamaje, Interim Executive Director, Segal Family Foundation
Speaker: Niloufer Memon, Deputy Director, Gender Equality, Gates Foundation
Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Time: 9 AM PT / 11 AM CT / 12 PM ET
Whether you are new to the region or deepening an existing strategy, this conversation will leave you with a clearer view of where your philanthropic dollars can go furthest and the relationships and resources to act with confidence.
Register now to attend live or receive the full session recording here.
We hope you’ll join us!
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This webinar is presented by Myriad USA, the leading resource for philanthropic giving overseas – a trusted advisor to individuals, families, corporations, and foundations seeking to support their favorite causes, anywhere across the globe. Discover our full portfolio of services at https://myriadusa.org/services/.