Welcome to the latest issue of Community Pulse. This edition highlights how locally led solutions are shaping sustainable development across communities. We share insights from AfricaXchange 2026 on moving from ideas to implementation, spotlight members advancing climate action and livelihoods in Mombasa, and bring you stories of grassroots efforts driving environmental resilience. We also feature news on community-led climate solutions and funding opportunities to support your work.

Turning ideas into action

The Global Alliance for Communities participated in AfricaXchange 2026, a pan-African platform bringing together leaders to move from conversation to action on the future of development and finance. The exchange focused on shifting from aid dependence to sustainable, locally driven economic models, with a strong emphasis on African ownership and accountability. For the Alliance, this aligns closely with its mission to amplify grassroots leadership and advance locally led solutions that are rooted in real community priorities. AfricaXchange 2026 signals a clear shift toward building practical, scalable models that connect local impact with long-term economic opportunity. Read more.

Kijiweni Uplift Youth: Turning waste into energy and opportunity

Kijiweni Uplift Youth is based in Mombasa and works to empower young people while promoting sustainable development in underserved communities. Through its eco-friendly briquette initiative, the organization trains community members to convert waste into affordable alternative fuel, reducing pollution and pressure on forests while creating income opportunities. Alongside this, Kijiweni supports youth through skills training in areas such as beauty therapy and entrepreneurship, as well as mentorship programs that strengthen long-term economic resilience. Read more.

Suluhisho Youth and Elderly Empowerment: Bridging generations for sustainable livelihoods

Suluhisho Youth and Elderly Empowerment is based in Mombasa and supports youth through skills development, mentorship, and income-generating activities, while also creating space for elders to share knowledge and guide younger generations. Through initiatives in community education, environmental awareness, and small-scale enterprise, Suluhisho fosters collaboration between generations to address local challenges. Their work brings together experience and innovation to build stronger, more resilient communities. Read more.

Grassroots Action Driving Climate Solutions

Community-led initiatives across Africa are gaining recognition for their role in addressing climate and environmental challenges. On World Water Day 2026, organizations highlighted how local communities are restoring ecosystems, managing water systems, and leading conservation efforts rooted in local knowledge and participation. These efforts are improving access to water, strengthening livelihoods, and building resilience, showing that effective solutions often begin at the community level.  Read more.

• Grant Alert: Let’s Sustain is offering a fully funded 7-day trip across Europe for young changemakers aged 18–50 with innovative climate ideas. Selected participants will present their projects internationally and connect with global sustainability leaders. Open to youth-led organizations and informal groups with valid passports. Deadline: May 10, 2026
• Call for Applications: The Benoît Maria Prize 2026 is awarding up to €6,000 to cooperatives and associations in Togo, Benin, Senegal, and Ethiopia working on agroecology, organic farming, and the defense of peasant rights. Selected projects will also gain international visibility for their work. Deadline: May 15, 2026
• Call for Proposals: CEMA Uganda is offering Climate Justice Small Grants through the Global Climate Action Fund (GCAF) for community-based organizations in Uganda implementing locally led environmental solutions. Priority is given to women, youth, and underserved communities focused on climate resilience. Deadline: Rolling