Nkafu Policy Institute: Shaping Central Africa’s Future Through Independent Research

By Bruno Ittia*

Founded in 2012, the Nkafu Policy Institute has rapidly emerged as a leading independent think tank in Central Africa. Based in Cameroon, Nkafu operates under the umbrella of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation, with a clear mission to provide independent, in-depth, and insightful policy recommendations that enable all Africans to prosper in free, fair, democratic, and sustainable economies.

Dr. Denis Foretia, the visionary behind Nkafu and co-chair of the Foundation, serves as the institute's Executive Chairman. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping Nkafu's direction and impact. Under his guidance, Nkafu has focused its work on five key areas that reflect the most pressing challenges in Central Africa: Economic Affairs; Governance and Democracy; Peace and Security; Education and Public Health; and Science and Technology. These focus areas allow Nkafu to address a wide range of issues crucial to the region's development.

The institute's approach is guided by its core values: Integrity, Innovation, Leadership, Thinking Big, and Diversity. These principles not only shape Nkafu's research methodology but also influence its organizational culture and interactions with stakeholders. By adhering to these values, Nkafu has established itself as a trusted source of policy insights and recommendations.

Since its inception, Nkafu has undertaken several high-impact projects demonstrating its commitment to effecting real change, such as the "Doing Business" project, funded by Atlas Network, which aimed to improve Cameroon's business environment. Building on this economic focus, Nkafu expanded its reach through the "Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development in Sub-Saharan Africa" initiative, collaborating with partners in Burkina Faso and Ghana. This project, funded by the International Development Research Center (IDRC), explored innovative incubation practices to foster entrepreneurship. Addressing critical social and governance issues, the institute launched the RASIG Project, promoting women's rights and integrated governance in the ECCAS region.

The institute is also tackling monetary policy challenges through the MAFA Initiative. Supported by the Templeton World Charity Foundation, this project aims to contribute to the monetary and fiscal policy autonomy of Francophone African countries in the Franc CFA zone. 

Collaboration is a cornerstone of Nkafu's approach. The institute has cultivated partnerships with key funders such as Atlas Network, IDRC, Rising Tide Foundation, and the John Templeton Foundation, while maintaining strong ties with fellow think tanks such as Institut Concorde, CERAPE, IDEC, the Okwelians, and CRAD among others.  These relationships have facilitated knowledge exchange, joint research initiatives, and a more comprehensive approach to regional policy challenges, enhancing Nkafu's capacity to engage in impactful research and advocacy. 

While fostering these collaborative relationships, Nkafu remains steadfast in maintaining its independence and credibility. The institute achieves this delicate balance by clearly articulating its values, mission, and work orientation from the outset of any partnership. Notably, Nkafu does not accept funding from public governments, ensuring its ability to provide unbiased, evidence-based policy recommendations. This unwavering commitment to independence has solidified Nkafu's position as a trusted voice in policy debates throughout the region.

Looking to the future, Nkafu has set ambitious goals. The institute aims to strengthen the capacity of think tanks in the ECCAS region and contribute to making the area more attractive to funders. Recognizing the importance of fostering strong leadership in the think tank sector, Nkafu has launched the Executive and Strategic Leadership Program.

This initiative aims to strengthen the strategic management capacity of think tanks, enhance the leadership and research capacity of think tank researchers (with a particular focus on women), and expand the visibility and reach of think tanks in Central Africa. 

Through these forward-looking efforts, Nkafu is not only working to enhance its impact but also to elevate the entire ecosystem of policy research and advocacy in the region. As Central Africa continues to navigate complex social, economic, and political challenges, the Nkafu Policy Institute stands as a beacon of independent thought and research-driven policy advocacy.

By providing rigorous analysis, fostering collaboration, and nurturing future leaders, Nkafu is playing a crucial role in shaping a more prosperous and equitable future for the entire region. Through its ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in policy research, Nkafu is well-positioned to continue its vital work in catalyzing positive change across Central Africa.

*Culled from August Issue of PAV. Bruno Ittia is the Director of Communications at the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation