On May 8, 2025, the 2025 Civil Society Organizations Forum will be held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, an event that promises to be a milestone in Africa’s inclusive and sustainable development. This gathering will bring together leaders, activists, and civil society representatives from across the continent to discuss the most urgent development challenges and chart new paths toward a future where the voices of African communities are heard, and their needs are met.
This biennial forum focuses on strengthening the active participation of civil society in decision-making processes and the implementation of programs that have a positive impact on communities. Through roundtables and debates, crucial topics such as integrating citizens’ perspectives into development projects and ensuring that policies respond to local realities will be addressed.
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One of the main objectives of this forum is to highlight the transformative power of civil society organizations. During the event, successful case studies will be presented to show how these organizations have contributed to improving the lives of thousands of people in areas such as education, health, and economic empowerment. These examples will inspire future initiatives and underscore the direct impact that collaboration between civil organizations, communities, and other key stakeholders can have.
Additionally, the event will feature a vibrant cultural agenda, with performances by local artists that will enrich the experience and emphasize the importance of African traditions and cultures in the development process. This cultural focus reflects the vision of development that respects the identity and roots of African peoples, reinforcing the idea that progress must go hand in hand with the preservation of local cultures.
The 2025 Civil Society Organizations Forum is not just an event for discussing ideas, but a platform to generate tangible and lasting impact. On its 60th anniversary, the African Development Bank (AfDB) is hosting this key gathering, which not only celebrates the achievements made but also marks an important step toward a more resilient, equitable, and prosperous continent where every citizen’s voice counts in building their own future.
