Bridging the Gap: Daraja’s vision to empower local organizations and transform development
In the realm of international development, a persistent challenge has long hindered the effectiveness of aid efforts: the disconnect between the priorities of global donors and the vital work of local organizations. The Daraja – Shared Services Platform (SSP), an innovative initiative led by the Global Development Incubator (GDI), aims to bridge this gap, empowering local nonprofits and transforming the landscape of development in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.
Daraja’s Vision
Daraja’s vision is ambitious yet essential: To create a future where international development and aid systems are driven by and more responsive to community needs. By ensuring that domestic organizations are given the recognition, ownership, and power they deserve by the global development community, Daraja seeks to improve development impacts and foster sustainable change.
At the heart of Daraja’s approach are three strategic pillars that work synergistically to break down barriers and unlock the potential of local change-makers.
- The Discovery, Diligence, and Matching pillar creates a trusted database of vetted nonprofits, allowing funders to easily identify impactful partners aligned with their goals. By providing valuable insights and support in program design, Daraja enables donors to make informed decisions and forge strategic partnerships.
- Capacity Building and Shared Services to Local Nonprofits equips local organizations with the tools they need to thrive. Through targeted technical assistance in areas such as finance, compliance, human resources, and impact monitoring, Daraja helps nonprofits strengthen their internal processes and meet the stringent requirements of international funders. This support not only enhances individual organizations but also contributes to the development of a vibrant and resilient civil society sector.
- Regranting and Portfolio Management serves as a bridge between risk-averse donors and trusted local partners. By offering fiscal and grant management services, Daraja provides a reliable and accountable investment pathway, enabling donors to support local initiatives with confidence.
The impact of Daraja’s work is already evident. Over the last 18 months, the platform has partnered with 20 organizations, providing them with the tools and support needed to improve their business processes and attract increased funding. Daraja’s efforts have helped local nonprofits secure over USD 2.5 million in additional funding, demonstrating the effectiveness of its approach.
Looking ahead, Daraja’s ambitions extend far beyond these initial successes. The organization is developing an efficient model for delivering high-level technical assistance to local nonprofits, while also exploring innovative ways to help them streamline non-core functions. By scaling its impact and sharing its insights, Daraja aims to catalyze a paradigm shift in international development, placing local organizations at the forefront of change.
The Daraja – Shared Services Platform is more than just an initiative; it is a rallying cry for a more equitable and impactful aid system. By empowering local change-makers, fostering collaboration, and bridging the gap between donors and communities, Daraja is paving the way for a future where sustainable development is driven by those who understand their contexts best.
In a world where complex challenges demand innovative solutions, Daraja represents a groundbreaking approach to international development. By revolutionizing the way aid is delivered and empowering local organizations to take the lead, Daraja is not just changing lives – it is redefining what is possible when we trust in the power of communities to shape their own futures. Through its tireless efforts to bridge divides, foster collaboration, and unlock the potential of local change-makers, Daraja is writing a new chapter in the story of global progress, one in which sustainable development is not just an aspiration, but a reality driven by the passion, expertise, and leadership of those who call these communities home.
Read the Case Study on Ruben Centre’s Holistic Approach to Community Development in Nairobi’s Mukuru Slums.
In case of any questions or feedback, please reach out to Kim Matu– Associate Director, Global Development Incubator – at kim.matu@globaldevincubator.org and our team will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you for your partnership and collaboration.