WFDP and CAFOR Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement to Accelerate Sustainable Development in Africa

The agreement was signed by Ambassador Ekramy A.A. Ibrahim El Zaghat, President of the WFDP, and, Dr. Lawalley Cole, Executive Director of CAFOR

This MoU formalizes a strategic partnership that aims to strengthen collaborative efforts in key areas such as youth empowerment, education, innovation, and sustainable economic development, aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ambassador El Zaghat emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving global development goals: “Our collaboration with CAFOR underscores our commitment to supporting innovative, community-based solutions that address pressing development challenges. Together, we will design and implement impactful programs that reflect our shared vision.”

CAFOR, a Pan-African multi-stakeholder coalition previously hosted by the African Union Commission, brings to the partnership its vast expertise in media, education, and development communication. WFDP, an intergovernmental organization with Special Consultative Status to the United Nations ECOSOC and affiliations with UN-OSAA, contributes a robust framework for global cooperation, resource mobilization, and development planning.

“This agreement marks a significant milestone in our shared mission to uplift communities across Africa and create inclusive opportunities for youth and vulnerable populations,” said Dr. Lawalley Cole. “By working together with WFDP, we can amplify our impact and accelerate progress toward a more equitable and sustainable future.”

The MoU establishes modalities for joint initiatives, the formation of working groups, and knowledge exchange mechanisms. While not imposing financial obligations, it opens pathways for cost-sharing agreements and joint resource mobilization for priority projects.

The partnership is happened because of efforts of  Dr. Dinesh Sabnis , WFDP ADDL. Representative to UNOG  and it expected to catalyze high-impact initiatives that will benefit African youth and communities, and serve as a model for regional and international collaboration.