In 1998, ACORD began a major process of organisational transformation – involving members, staff and local communities –to bring about significant change in terms of governance, structure, management and program priorities. This process is relevant and important for those directly involved: ACORD staff and programs, as well as ACORD members and donors. It is also relevant and potentially important for a larger circle of those who are concerned with creating effective models of action for international co-operation, especially in the context of Africa.

ACORD is a complex organisation, involving many diverse actors, in many places, working together to address a wide range of issues and needs. This complexity can be overwhelming at times. Yet ACORD’s complexity is also its strength. ACORD brings together a rare combination of skills and resources from more than 30 countries of Africa, Europe, and Canada in ongoing collaboration to eradicate poverty and break down the isolation and marginalisation of communities who are struggling for their rights under very difficult circumstances. ACORD has accomplished what no individual organisation, whether a local association or an international NGO, could do alone.

This recognition of the value of working together, sharing knowledge and resources and building mutual support, is the rich heritage of ACORD’s past as an organisation and it is the foundation on which we are entering this new phase of action. The challenge for the future is to draw on the rich experience of ACORD’s programs to learn and act strategically with others at the national, regional and international levels. To that end, ACORD is reaching out to African organisations and to partners in the north to build new working alliances on specific issues and areas of interest.

ACORD is entering an exciting new phase, one that involves a great deal of commitment, determination and courage. The members and staff of ACORD are confronting the challenge of creating ACORD’s future together. We look forward to working in Acord for a better future for Africa, with colleagues and allies across the continent and throughout the world.

Molly Kane
Chair of the Board

Return to 2000 Annual Report Index