As we usher in 2025, the Africa Evidence Network (AEN) is brimming with anticipation for another year of growth, collaboration, and innovation. Building on the achievements of 2024, this year promises to elevate our collective impact as we continue to advance evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) across the continent. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect from AEN in 2025:
- Evidence 2025: A Gathering of Change-Makers
Our flagship Evidence 2025 event is set to be a cornerstone of the year, bringing together EIDM practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and emerging leaders. This biennial event will provide a platform for dynamic discussions, showcase innovations, share evidence-based best practices, and foster collaborations that drive meaningful change.
The event will focus on practical solutions to the challenges faced by Africa, highlighting the power of evidence to shape policy and improve lives. With an emphasis on inclusivity, the event will also celebrate the role of young and emerging leaders in shaping the future of EIDM.
- Expansion of Communities of Practice (CoPs)
Following the successful launch of seven Communities of Practice last year, 2025 will see these CoPs deepen their engagement and broaden their reach. We look forward to seeing them address critical topics, foster cross-sectoral collaborations, and drive actionable solutions that strengthen EIDM at every level.
- Amplifying the Voices of Emerging Leaders
2025 will continue to spotlight the contributions of young and emerging leaders in Africa. We aim to empower the next generation of evidence champions through dedicated initiatives, mentoring opportunities, and platforms to share their insights. Their innovative approaches and fresh perspectives are critical to driving transformative change across the continent.
- Strengthened Digital Engagement and Resources
With our new website and membership portal launch in 2024, we’re poised to enhance our digital presence even further in 2025. Members can look forward to improved access to resources, dynamic networking opportunities, and interactive tools designed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
- Expanding Partnerships Across Africa
Collaboration lies at the heart of AEN’s mission. In 2025, we aim to deepen our relationships with existing partners and forge new alliances across the continent. By working together, we can amplify our collective efforts to promote evidence-based decision-making and ensure that no one is left behind.
- Capacity Development for Lasting Impact
Building on the revised Manifesto on Capacity Development for EIDM in Africa, 2025 will see us scale up our efforts to equip individuals and organisations with the skills, tools, and knowledge they need to make informed decisions. This year, we’ll focus on delivering tailored training programmes, creating more resources, and fostering a culture of continuous learning.
- Celebrating Excellence Through the Africa Evidence Leadership Award
The Africa Evidence Leadership Award (AELA) will again highlight the remarkable contributions of evidence users, producers, mediators, and emerging leaders. This award serves as an essential reminder of the transformative power of evidence in shaping a better future for Africa.
Join Us in 2025
As we step into this exciting new chapter, we invite you to be part of our journey. Whether through participating in the Evidence 2025 event, webinars, joining a Community of Practice, or contributing to our digital resources, your involvement is vital to our mission.
Let’s work together to build on the momentum of 2024 and make 2025 a year of even more significant impact for EIDM in Africa. Together, we can ensure that evidence drives policies, practices, and decisions that transform lives.
Please stay connected with AEN through our website and follow us on social media platforms to stay updated on events, initiatives, and opportunities throughout the year.
Here’s to an impactful 2025—together, let’s make evidence count!
About the author: Siziwe Ngcwabe is the Director and Co-chair of the Africa Evidence Network. She is a South African inspirational trailblazing social entrepreneur, motivational speaker, personal change catalyst, and academic. She was born in Qitsi village, Cofimvaba, Eastern Cape, and raised in East Driefontein mine in Carletonville. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in social work with honours from the Walter Sisulu University (UNITRA), a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management (PGDBM) from MANCOSA, a Master’s degree in Public Management-MPM and Masters of Business Administration-MBA from Regenesys Business School. She worked at several organisations across different sectors in South Africa. She approaches the challenge of working in various environments with dedication and diligence. She believes with her willingness to continuously face new challenges, her intellectual curiosity, and her academic and 24 years of experience, she aims to continuously support connections and collaborations for meaningful African and global impact through evidence networks by promoting evidence production, use, and mediation for useful change. She is also committed to building innovative, collaborative solutions.
Acknowledgements: The author(s) is solely responsible for the content of this article, including all errors or omissions; acknowledgements do not imply endorsement of the content. The author is grateful to Charity Chisoro for her guidance in preparing and finalising this article, as well as her editorial support.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in published blog posts, as well as any errors or omissions, are the sole responsibility of the author/s and do not represent the views of the Africa Evidence Network, its secretariat, advisory or reference groups, or its funders; nor does it imply endorsement by the afore-mentioned parties.
Suggested citation: Ngcwabe, S. (2025) What to Look Forward to in 2025: Advancing Evidence-Informed Decision-Making in Africa. Blog posting on 20 January 2025. Available at: https://africaevidencenetwork.org/what-to-look-forward-to-in-2025-advancing-evidence-informed-decision-making-in-africa/2025/01/20/
