Grassroots Power. Continental Reach.
A network of independent public benefit organizations across East Africa, connecting grassroots expertise with resources and influence.
Our Mission
To mobilize collective expertise, resources, and influence through a unified platform of independent organizations, designing and implementing high-impact interventions that address climate justice, human rights, and socio-economic inequality across the continent.
Our Vision
A resilient, inclusive, and empowered Africa where sovereign communities drive their own sustainable development, realize their constitutional rights, and thrive within a just ecological and economic framework.
Principles That Guide the Network
Community Leadership
Communities are agents of their own development. Grassroots organizations and the populations they serve drive their own progress as decision-makers, strategists, and leaders.
Collective Power
Individual organizations achieve more through coordinated action. Network effects increase visibility, improve resource access, and amplify advocacy voices.
Integrity in Intermediation
ANCEM removes barriers and amplifies grassroots voices without inserting layers between communities and funding. Member organizations remain the face of impact.
Multi-Dimensional Justice
Interconnected inequalities require integrated responses. Climate justice, gender equality, human rights, and economic empowerment work together.
The People Behind the Network
Tom Wabwire
Tom brings over two decades of experience in community development and health systems strengthening across East Africa. As Program Coordinator at ADEO, he has led health service delivery in refugee camps and underserved communities across Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan.
At ANCEM, Tom provides strategic leadership to ensure the network remains grounded in community priorities while expanding its continental reach.
Board Members
Beatrice Achieng
Executive Director of Women for Peace and Advocacy (WOPA), Beatrice leads gender-based violence prevention and women's economic empowerment programs across the ASAL region.
Meshack Odhare
Leads AYCP's youth empowerment and food systems programming in Western Kenya, focusing on skills training and climate-smart agriculture.
The Secretariat
John Kibocha
Manages network operations, member support, and donor relations. John coordinates sub-grant administration and ensures the Secretariat serves member organizations effectively.
Amos Omanyo
A certified accountant and auditor, Amos manages financial operations, ensures compliance with accounting standards, and oversees financial reporting for the network and sub-granted projects.
How the Network Operates
The Board
Seven members provide strategic oversight. Three founding members ensure continuity while four elected members represent the broader network.
The Secretariat
The Executive Director leads coordination, grant management, and member support. The Secretariat exists to serve member organizations.
Member Organizations
Independent Member Organizations implement programs in their communities, retaining decision-making authority while accessing network resources.