Shared Services Platform
Ruben Centre, a renowned charitable trust based in Nairobi, and Global Development Incubator (GDI) Africa, a leading social impact organization, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a Shared Services Platform. The platform aims to provide capacity building services to local non-profit entities (LNPEs), including NGOs and CBOs, to enhance their operational capabilities and attract direct funding from Global North donors, aligning with the mission and impact of LNPEs.
The MOU signing took place on April 12, 2023, at the Ruben Centre premises, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between Ruben Centre and GDI Africa. The shared services platform is envisioned to strengthen the capacity and sustainability of LNPEs, ultimately contributing to the positive social impact they create in their communities.
Under the agreement, GDI Africa will provide capacity building services to Ruben Centre and other LNPEs through the Shared Services Platform. These services will include grant management and sub-granting services, aimed at de-risking LNPEs through effective program and managerial oversight, as required by Global North donors. The Shared Services Platform will enable LNPEs to meet the stringent criteria set by donors and increase their chances of securing funding for their programs and projects. GDI Africa will focus on six key services under the SSP partnership with Ruben Centre, including finance, audit, and compliance; human resources and compliance; impact monitoring and evaluation; fundraising and reporting; growth, innovation, and strategy; and board and governance development.
Speaking at the MOU signing event, Br. Frank O'Shea, Director of Ruben Centre, expressed the organization's excitement about the partnership with GDI Africa and the potential impact of the Shared Services Platform. He emphasized that strengthening the operational capabilities of LNPEs is crucial for their sustainability and growth, and the partnership with GDI Africa will provide invaluable support in this regard.
On behalf of GDI Africa, Mr. Kim Matu, Associate Director GDI, highlighted the project’s commitment to supporting local non-profit entities in Africa and commended Ruben Centre's efforts in driving positive change in their community. He emphasized that the Shared Services Platform will provide essential tools and resources to empower Ruben Centre and enhance its ability to access funding from Global North donors, while also building the capacity of Ruben Centre staff.
The signing of the MOU reflects the mutual commitment of Ruben Centre and GDI Africa to collaborate towards a shared vision of creating positive social impact. The partnership is expected to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources, and enable Ruben Centre to navigate the complex landscape of donor funding more effectively.
As Ruben Centre and GDI Africa embark on this collaborative journey, it is anticipated that the Shared Services Platform will become a catalyst for building the resilience and sustainability of Ruben Centre, amplifying their efforts to address pressing social challenges in the Mukuru community.
In conclusion, the MOU signing between Ruben Centre and GDI Africa on the Shared Services Platform is a significant step towards enhancing the operational capabilities of LNPEs and fostering their sustainability. Ruben Centre and GDI Africa are poised to make a meaningful difference in the non-profit sector in Africa and contribute to positive social change.
Story: GB.
Photos: GB
