The Best Charities in Africa ranked 2024

Have you been wondering which charities have had the most significant impact in Africa. We list the best charities in Africa in 2024.

Africa, a continent rich in diversity and culture, faces a unique set of challenges that require dedicated efforts from both local and international organizations. Charitable organizations play a crucial role in addressing these challenges, from improving health and education to promoting economic development and environmental sustainability. Here’s a look at some of the major charities making a significant impact across Africa:

1. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) is the best charity in Africa and is an American private foundation founded by Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates. Based in Seattle, Washington, it was launched in 2000 and is reported to be the second largest charitable foundation in the world, holding $69 billion in assets as of 2020

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is a prominent global player in addressing health and poverty issues. In Africa, their work focuses on:

• Global Health: The foundation invests in combating diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis. They support vaccination programs and research for new treatments.

• Poverty Alleviation: Their initiatives include improving agricultural productivity and providing financial services to the poor.

2. Save the Children

The Save the Children Fund, commonly known as Save the Children, is an international, non-governmental organization. It was founded in the UK in 1919, with the goal of helping improve the lives of children worldwide.

Save the Children is one of the best charities and works to improve the lives of children across Africa through:

• Education: They support educational programs and infrastructure to ensure children have access to quality education.

• Emergency Response: In crisis situations, such as conflicts and natural disasters, Save the Children provides emergency aid, including food, shelter, and medical care.

• Health and Nutrition: They focus on reducing child mortality rates by improving nutrition, healthcare, and sanitation.

3. Oxfam

Oxfam is a British-founded confederation of 21 independent non-governmental organizations (NGOs), focusing on the alleviation of global poverty, founded in 1942 and led by Oxfam International

Oxfam is also one of the best charities in Africa and operates with a mission to alleviate poverty and injustice. In Africa, their efforts include:

• Economic Development: They work on projects that promote sustainable livelihoods and fair trade, helping communities build resilience and economic stability.

• Advocacy: Oxfam campaigns against inequality and supports policies that protect the rights of marginalized communities.

• Emergency Assistance: They provide aid and support during emergencies, including clean water, food, and shelter.

4. African Development Foundation (ADF)

The African Development Fund (ADF) is the concessional window of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group. Established in 1972, it became operational in 1974. Administered by the African Development Bank, it comprises, to date, 32 contributing countries and benefits 38 countries.

The ADF focuses on promoting economic development and improving living conditions through:

• Community-Based Projects: They fund projects that empower local communities, especially in areas like agriculture, education, and healthcare.

• Youth and Women Empowerment: ADF emphasizes programs that support youth and women in gaining skills, education, and economic opportunities.

5. The Nelson Mandela Foundation

The foundation was created in 1999 by Nelson Mandela when he stepped down as the President of South Africa.

In honor of Nelson Mandela’s legacy, this foundation works to:

• Promote Social Justice: They support projects and initiatives that advance social justice and human rights, reflecting Mandela’s commitment to equality and freedom.

• Education and Youth Development: The foundation invests in educational programs and leadership development for young people.

6. Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières – MSF)

Doctors Without Borders, is a charity that provides humanitarian medical care. It is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) of French origin known for its projects in conflict zones and in countries affected by endemic diseases. The organisation provides care for diabetes, drug-resistant infections, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, tropical and neglected diseases, tuberculosis, vaccines and COVID-19. 

MSF provides medical care in crisis situations and underserved regions. Their work in Africa includes:

• Emergency Medical Care: They offer lifesaving medical care in conflict zones, refugee camps, and areas affected by epidemics.

• Healthcare Infrastructure: MSF supports and operates clinics and hospitals to provide essential healthcare services.

7. African Wildlife Foundation (AWF)

The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) is an international conservation organization created with the intent of preserving Africa’s wildlife, wild lands, and natural resources. Founded in 1961, the organization helped establish conservation programs at the College of African Wildlife Management, Mweka in Tanzania, and the Ecole de Faune de Garoua in Cameroon. The Foundation works with governments and businesses to develop conservation efforts as a source of revenue.

The AWF focuses on wildlife conservation and the protection of natural habitats through:

• Conservation Programs: They work to protect endangered species and preserve critical habitats.

• Community Involvement: AWF engages local communities in conservation efforts, providing education and promoting sustainable practices.

8. CARE International

CARE is a major international humanitarian agency delivering emergency relief and long-term international development projects. Founded in 1945, CARE is nonsectarian, impartial, and non-governmental. It is one of the largest and oldest humanitarian aid organizations focused on fighting global poverty.

CARE International addresses global poverty and social injustice with a strong focus on Africa. Their work involves:

• Emergency Relief: Providing assistance during emergencies, including food aid, water, and shelter.

• Development Programs: Supporting programs in education, health, and economic development to empower communities.

Conclusion

The collective efforts of these charities reflect a deep commitment to addressing the complex challenges faced by African nations. By focusing on health, education, economic development, and conservation, they contribute significantly to improving the quality of life across the continent. Supporting these organizations helps amplify their impact, driving positive change and fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for Africa.