Annual Retreat of the Sahel Regional Fund Board members
On September 11, the Board of Directors of the Sahel Regional Fund (SRF) convened in Dakar for its annual retreat — a pivotal moment to reflect on the Fund’s first two years of operations, review achievements, and chart the course for the future. The session provided a space for strategic dialogue on strengthening the SRF’s structure as it transitions toward a more robust and adaptive pooled fund tailored to the needs of the Sahel region.
🔑 Key Highlights
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Review of results: Presentation of the SRF’s accomplishments over its first two years, particularly in pioneering innovative and sustainable humanitarian financing mechanisms.
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Governance and management discussions: Examination of fund management practices, project calls, and the potential transition to a pooled fund to enhance flexibility and responsiveness to crises across the Sahel.
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Localization in action: Emphasis on the importance of localized humanitarian responses and the need for financing models that reflect and respect regional specificities.
The SRF Board of Directors, composed of both permanent and non-permanent members, was established to ensure balanced representation of international organizations, local civil society actors, donors, and independent observers. The Board is committed to fostering sound, ethical, and transparent governance in alignment with the principles of the SRF’s Charter and Mission Statement.
Engaging discussions took place with partners including:
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Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
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Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)
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International Rescue Committee (IRC)
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) – United Kingdom
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Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
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Secrétariat Permanent des Organisations Non Gouvernementales (SPONG) – Burkina Faso
as well as local organizations such as AKARASS and AMSS/PONAH.