Knowledge Exchange

In 2023, OPHID conceptualized and initiated the Ilima/Jakwara: Health and Development Knowledge Exchange fora.

Ilima or Jakwara is a traditional Zimbabwean practice of working together as a community to help each other in daily tasks such as harvesting, weeding fields, constructing a house or such other tasks. The practice promotes knowledge sharing, peer learning, and emphasizes practical application of skills.

The Knowledge Exchange series aims to: 

  • Enhance inter-NGO learning through knowledge sharing structures and mechanisms using case-based learning.
  • Reduce duplication of effort within the health and development sector, through identifying practices that have already worked and adopting these across NGOs.
  • Enable openness, transparency, accountability, and harmony across NGOs within the health and development sector as a constituency supporting government line ministries.
  • Provide opportunities for personal growth and continued professional development for senior management within the NGO sector.
  • Position the NGOs in Zimbabwe as a sector that is collaborative, accountable and united, thereby attracting more funding from donors.

The Ilima/Jakwara knowledge exchange platforms are divided into three series as follows:

  1. C-Suite knowledge exchange series – the platform brings together executive directors, CEOs and other senior management cadres to share knowledge, failures, and best practices on a wide range of topics that are key in running an NGO. The topics include strategic planning and leadership, HR management, financial planning and management, Organizational development and change management, Stakeholder engagement and communication, and Risk management and compliance. Senior management from private sector will be co-opted into the series to enhance learning and cross-pollination of ideas between private sector and NGOs.
  2. Programs and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) knowledge exchange series – the platform brings together program directors, program managers and M&E specialists who implement programs within NGOs. Program implementation and delivery is at the heart of all NGOs. The topics discussed in this series include program design, implementation, and evaluation; Data collection, analysis, and reporting; and Performance measurement and improvement. Private sector participants who have operations with similar structures may find the series useful.
  3. Compliance Management knowledge exchange series – the platform brings together compliance personnel (internal audit) and operational departments within NGOs (HR, finance, procurement, administration etc). The topics discussed include donor rules and regulations, regulatory frameworks affecting NGOs, internal controls and risk management, and fraud prevention and detection. This series is also applicable to private sector, including external auditors, internal auditors, and general operations staff.

Impact of the OPHID Knowledge Exchange Platform

6 Knowledge Exchange Events Held

Over the past year, OPHID has successfully organized six impactful knowledge exchange workshops, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.

100+ Participating Organizations

Our events have brought together over 100 organizations, including local NGOs, international NGOs, and private sector entities, showcasing a diverse range of expertise and perspectives.

Cross-Sector Collaboration

The platform has facilitated unprecedented collaboration between local NGOs, international NGOs, and private sector companies, enhancing the effectiveness and reach of development initiatives.

380+ Individuals in Attendance

We have engaged more than 380 professionals from various sectors, including compliance officers, finance and administration personnel, human resources professionals, legal experts, grant managers, procurement and logistics specialists, IT and communications experts, program managers, and executive directors.

Diverse Expertise

Participants have included marketing professionals, data analysts, monitoring and evaluation personnel, sales professionals, and operations personnel, ensuring a holistic approach to tackling development challenges.

Innovative Solutions and Best Practices

Our workshops have been instrumental in identifying and sharing innovative solutions and best practices, driving progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Zimbabwe.

Capacity Building

The knowledge exchange events have significantly contributed to capacity building within participating organizations, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to enhance their impact.

Strategic Partnerships

The platform has nurtured strategic partnerships, fostering a united front in addressing key development issues such as poverty, health, education, and gender equality.