Strengthening African Civil Society: An Opportunity for Cape Verde

A UA ECOSOCC – 5th Permanent General Assembly for African CSOs represents a crucial milestone in strengthening dialogue and collaboration between civil society organisations (CSOs) across the African continent. This initiative, promoted by the Economic, Social and Cultural Committee of the African Union (ECOSOCC), aims to create a robust platform for sharing experiences, defining joint strategies and promoting inclusive policies that address Africa’s challenges and aspirations. Cape Verde, with its rich tapestry of active organisations and a strong commitment to sustainable development and participatory governance, is particularly well placed to benefit from and contribute significantly to this process.

This Permanent General Assembly is not merely a forum for discussion, but a space for collective action. It aims to empower CSOs by equipping them with the tools and knowledge to act more effectively in defending human rights, promoting socio-economic development, mitigating climate change and consolidating peace and security in Africa. Interaction between different contexts and approaches will enable the identification of best practices, innovation in local solutions and the strengthening of advocacy capacity with policy-makers at national and continental levels. Cape Verde’s participation in this initiative underlines its vision of a more integrated and united Africa, where civil society plays a central role in shaping the future.

The 5th Permanent General Assembly comes at a particularly significant time, when global and regional challenges demand coordinated and strategic responses. It has the potential to act as a catalyst for mobilising resources, establishing lasting partnerships and deepening South-South cooperation. By becoming part of this vibrant ecosystem, Cape Verdean CSOs will have the opportunity to showcase their achievements, learn from their peers and influence the continental agenda, placing the priorities and specific circumstances of small islands at the heart of the discussions. It is a call to action and to active participation in building a more resilient and prosperous Africa.

The deadline for submitting applications is 15 July 2026.

For more information and to access the application form, please visit the following link: https://ecosocc.au.int/en/elections