Washington, D.C. – 22 October 2024 – Lift Africa Foundation contributes to the World Bank
IMF Civil Society Policy Forum (CSPF), bringing forward evidence-based perspectives on
governance reform, youth employment, women’s empowerment and civil society participation in
development processes. The Forum convenes global policymakers, development partners, civil
society organisations and technical experts to examine structural barriers to inclusive growth and
equitable public policy.
Across several high-level sessions, Lift Africa Foundation highlights the importance of
strengthening civic space, building accountable institutions and ensuring that development
financing responds to community needs rather than top-level policy intentions.
Strengthening CSO Participation in Development Projects
During the Executive Directors Roundtable, Lift Africa Foundation underscores the need for
civil society to be integrated across all stages of development projects — from design to
implementation and evaluation. The Foundation advocates for transparent financing mechanisms
that expand access to grants, improve local accountability and elevate the voices of grassroots
communities in development planning.
Tackling Youth Unemployment Through Skills and Governance Reform
At the Knowledge Café session on youth employment, co-hosted by the World Bank, Microsoft
and George Mason University, the Foundation stresses the need to align education systems with
labour market realities. Lift Africa highlights innovations such as AI certification for young
women, mobile learning tools tailored for girls, and digital training programs that improve
employability for underserved youth.
The Foundation also emphasises the importance of governance frameworks that connect training
initiatives to measurable employment outcomes, noting that youth empowerment must be
sustained by institutional accountability and long-term funding commitments.
Using Fiscal Policy to Advance Equity and Economic Justice
Contributing to discussions on progressive taxation, the Foundation emphasises the role of
equitable fiscal systems in reducing wealth inequality and strengthening public trust. Lift Africa
advocates for tax policies that prioritise vulnerable populations, protect public resources and
support more inclusive development outcomes.
Women’s Health and Inclusive Development
During sessions focused on health systems strengthening, Lift Africa Foundation reinforces that
universal health coverage is a critical enabler for women’s empowerment. Access to healthcare
supports women’s participation in education, employment and leadership, and contributes to
broader social and economic stability.
Governance and Accountability as Catalysts for Sustainable Development
In engagements with the IMF, Lift Africa highlights the importance of governance reforms—
transparency, anti-corruption measures and civic participation—as foundational elements of
sustainable development. The Foundation stresses that inclusive governance leads to better
service delivery, stronger institutions and more predictable development outcomes for
communities.
Lift Africa Foundation’s Commitment
Through its engagements at the CSPF, Lift Africa Foundation reaffirms its commitment to:
- advancing accountable and inclusive governance
- championing youth and women’s empowerment
- promoting equitable development financing
- strengthening civil society participation in public policy
- ensuring that development systems reflect the realities of marginalised communities
The Foundation continues to use global platforms to amplify community voices, contribute to
policy reform and support transformative development outcomes across Africa.