PROJECT OVERVIEW

Connect for Culture Africa

CfCA is a regional initiative at transforming Africa´s Arts, culture and heritage through advocacy and lobbying for increased public investment, with a goal of allocating at least 1% of national budgets by 2030. The initiative integrates advocacy efforts at both regional and national levels, fostering a multistakeholder network of cultural advocates. It seeks to raise awareness about the benefits of investing in culture to promote democratic, inclusive, peaceful and sustainable social and economic development

MISSION & VISION

Our commitment to empowering Africa’s cultural future through advocacy and collaboration.

MISSION

To secure increased public funding for the cultural sector, aiming for a minimum of 1% of the cultural budget by 2030 in 50% of African countries.

VISION

To establish sustainable public funding models that prioritize investment in Africa's cultural sector.

Values & Approach

COMMUNITY

Community: We are united in celebrating diverse artistic expressions, fostering collaboration, and driving positive change for sustainable funding in the African cultural sector.

IMPACT

Impact: Striving for tangible and positive outcomes in the cultural sector that contribute to broader societal development.

INCLUSIVITY

Inclusivity: Valuing diversity and ensuring that all voices and cultural expressions are not only respected but actively represented.

TRANSPARENCY

Transparency: Operating with openness and honesty to build trust among stakeholders and the wider public.

EMPOWERMENT

Empowerment: Believing in the transformative power of creative culture and actively empowering cultural practitioners and institutions to drive positive change.

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability: Integrating responsible practices and promoting long-term sustainability in all activities and initiatives.

MEET THE CFCA TEAM

Get to know the people driving CfCA’s vision and impact across Africa.

Regional Offices

Lucy Ilado: Regional Program Director

Sozinho Matsinhe: Liaison Officer

Yonas Bireda: Finance manager

Beatrice Waruinge: Advocacy Program Officer

Ethiopia Office

Samuel Mulugeta: Country director

Teshome Wondimu Executive Director

Sisay Mengistie: Program manager

Surafel Mekonnen: Monitoring Evaluation and Learning Expert

Stockholm Office

Alma Estrada: International Project Coordinator

Olof Sjögren: Finance & Administration Manager

About Selam

An international organisation fostering cultural connections since 1997, Selam collaborates globally with artists, producers, and partners to promote inclusive, democratic societies through the power of culture.

COLLABORATOR:

African Union

The African Union endorses CfCA’s mission to secure 1% national investment in arts and culture across Africa. Together, we’re driving meaningful change for the continent’s creative future. Read more >

PARTNERS:

The People’s Action for Accountability and Good Governance in Zambia (PAAGZ)

PAAGZ drives accountability and improves public services, championing equitable governance for marginalised communities across Zambia. Read more >

Chenhaka Trust
Founded by Taurai Moyo, Chenhaka Trust empowers Zimbabwe’s creative sector, fostering arts education and heritage preservation through festivals, workshops, and skill-building initiatives. Read more >

Pearlwood
Pearlwood, Uganda’s Film Market, unites producers, VJs, publishers, and distributors to champion the nation’s film industry. Read more >

OCPA

The Observatory of Cultural Policies in Africa (OCPA) champions cultural development and policy integration, strengthening Africa’s role in global cultural dialogues.