Unified Perspective: Why Convenings Matter for Rural Funders and Organizations

Rural areas are dynamic and complex, and challenges are multifaceted with solutions requiring a broad combination of expertise - the significance of convening for joint action cannot be overlooked.

Rural development often transcends disciplines and borders - collaboration is not just desirable, it’s imperative. Collaborative efforts stand as the anchor of transformative change.

Strategic convenings help advance sustainable rural development by providing space for:

Aligning Rural Fields and Actors By fostering organizational development, innovation, and policy enhancement, these gatherings ensure that rural advocates synchronize their efforts. Through shared resources, expertise, and mutual respect, stakeholders recognize the interconnectedness of their issues, enhancing cross-promotion and collective impact.

Collaboration on a Cohesive Rural Policy Agenda Convenings enable national and local governments to collaboratively design and implement policies that streamline public resources for rural communities. By aligning regulations and incentives with local needs, these policies empower rural areas to access and utilize resources effectively, fostering sustainable development tailored to local contexts.

Shaping a Progressive Rural Narrative By countering stereotypes and highlighting rural innovation and assets, convenings promote investment in, and partnership with rural communities. This shift in narrative not only enhances external perceptions, but also empowers internal stakeholders by affirming the value of their unique perspectives and experiences.

Attending convenings can help rural funders, organizations, and practitioners share their perspectives, learn from one another, and highlight common goals. 

The Rural Economic Development Forum, set for 10 – 11 September 2024 in Harare, Zimbabwe, exemplifies this through its proactive approach in bringing together diverse stakeholders to foster collaboration and drive meaningful change across rural communities.

This strategic convening aims to facilitate impactful outcomes that accelerate long-term rural development goals. By engaging a diverse array of stakeholders in a curated experience, the gathering sparks unforeseen collaborations to address new challenges and opportunities in the rural economy.

The goal is to build on the extensive work of participants and determine how to coordinate action, and attract investment for rural economic development.

The forum, held under the theme Transformation Pathways to Resilience, and Unlocking Rural Potential is a dialogue that thoughtfully considers the collection of perspectives and experiences needed to advance rural transformation, carefully designed to foster intentional engagement between a well-curated set of participants, at a pivotal moment to drive transformative social change.

You are invited to join the Rural Economic Development Forum and amplify your impact through collaboration; forge new, and strengthen existing partnerships! Registration Now Open for REDForum2024 with Early Bird Pricing Until 31 July!

When: 10 – 11 September 2024 

Where: Harare, Zimbabwe

Call 0717 567 242 or WhatsApp 0781 503 015 for more information