Charter · Phase I · Abuja, Nigeria
The IJIDI Foundation is a civic gate within the IJIDI ecosystem — designed to steward resources, amplify agency, and advance development on the continent's own terms.
Foundation paperwork in progress — charter disclosed in the open.
Our mandate
We build programmes that support communities. Here's what we know so far, and what we're still figuring out.
"We are not here to save. We are here to amplify — to clear paths, share tools, and stand beside those who already hold the answers."
Our pillars
Each pillar represents a dimension of our work. Select one to read more.
Agency, dignity, and voice at the centre.
We invest in human potential — from education and health to civic participation and leadership. Our programmes are co-designed with the communities they serve.
Regenerative futures for people and place.
Climate resilience, ecological stewardship, and circular economies. We support solutions that restore rather than extract.
Economic dignity through enterprise and access.
We back local entrepreneurs, fair trade, and financial inclusion — building prosperity that is shared, not hoarded.
Conflict transformation and social cohesion.
We work with communities to address root causes of tension, build trust, and create pathways to lasting peace.
Collaboration across sectors and borders.
We convene governments, civil society, and the private sector — because no single actor can solve systemic challenges alone.
Theory of change
Each step is a lever. Open a step to read more.
We begin with deep listening — to communities, to data, to lived experience. Our work is shaped by those we serve.
We build programmes with, not for. Co-creation ensures relevance, ownership, and sustainability from day one.
We pilot, measure, and adapt. Evidence-led iteration turns good intentions into proven practice.
What works, we scale. What we learn, we share — openly, so others can build on it.
Our programmes
We are building our programme portfolio, starting in Abuja (Federal Capital Territory) in Phase I. These are our current areas of focus — more details coming soon.
Education & Leadership
Youth leadership and civic engagement programmes designed to build a generation of ethical, effective changemakers.
We are currently designing pilot cohorts with local partners. Programme details will be shared as they are co-created with community stakeholders.
Climate & Resilience
Community-led ecological restoration and climate adaptation, focused on nature-based solutions and local stewardship.
We are working with environmental experts and community leaders to develop regenerative programmes that restore both land and livelihoods.
Economic Justice
Economic inclusion and enterprise development, supporting smallholder farmers, artisans, and local entrepreneurs.
We are conducting market assessments and partner mapping to design programmes that create sustainable economic opportunity.
Impact
Communities
Engaged in co-design
Not yet reporting
Partners
Civil society · Government · Private
Not yet reporting
Programme readiness
Phase I · Scoping in progress
Not yet reporting
Young leaders
In pilot leadership cohorts
Not yet reporting
Governance
The people and filings behind the foundation, disclosed as they are confirmed.
Founder & Executive Director
Mandela brings over 18 years of operational leadership across international organisations, including the World Health Organization, World Food Programme, UNICEF, Plan International, UNDSS and Catholic Relief Services.
He founded the IJIDI ecosystem to create a new kind of institutional architecture — one rooted in trust, transparency and African agency. He is the author of several frameworks on civic infrastructure and participatory governance.
Trustee
Ifeoma is a seasoned legal and policy advisor with deep expertise in human rights and institutional governance.
She has advised governments and civil society organisations on constitutional reform, access to justice and institutional accountability, and is committed to ensuring the foundation operates with integrity and transparency.
In progress
CAC registration and related filings are underway. Details will be published here and on our documents page as they become available.
Transparency
We believe in open books and honest stewardship. Our funding allocation will be published here once it is confirmed.
Get involved
We are building a community of practice. Choose how you'd like to contribute.
Not yet open: register your interest
We are not yet accepting financial contributions. Giving opens once the Foundation's own bank account is in place, and its details will be published only on this website. Never send money to a personal account that claims to represent the IJIDI Foundation — please report it to us.
Collaborate with us on systemic change
We are actively seeking partners who share our values and commitment to impact.
Your skills can help us grow
We believe in the power of shared expertise. Please get in touch.
Contact
Whether you're a potential partner, a community member, or just curious — we'd love to hear from you.
Telegram
@ijidifoundationSafeguarding & complaints
Report a concern