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UNESCO Staff Strengthen Resource Mobilization Capacity through Strategic Training
Staff members from the UNESCO Windhoek Office, along with colleagues from the Harare and Maputo Offices who joined virtually, successfully completed a two-part Resource Mobilization (RM) training programme held from 11–14 February and 9–15 April 2025. Facilitated by RM expert Uzair Kamal, the training aimed to strengthen the team’s capacity in strategic fundraising and long-term donor engagement.
The sessions also addressed the need to adapt to the shifting development financing landscape across the region, particularly in the context of changing donor priorities and the funding challenges faced by countries such as Namibia with upper middle-income classifications. Speaking during the training, Kamal highlighted the importance of inclusive and community-driven strategies in development work, noting that collaboration and innovation are key to achieving meaningful impact.
Together, let us transform visions into sustainable impacts. We can empower communities and shape a brighter, inclusive future through strategic collaboration and innovation, said Kamal, emphasizing the transformative power of strategic resource mobilization.
Before the training began, participants completed a pre-assessment to evaluate their understanding and experiences with resource mobilization. The results provided valuable insight into both strengths and areas needing improvement across the team. It became evident that many participants viewed resource mobilization as more than simply fundraising. They recognized its importance in sustaining and expanding UNESCO’s development initiatives. However, there was a clear need for greater clarity on how to strategically position UNESCO in the eyes of potential donors and how to build lasting relationships with partners who share the organization’s long-term goals.
The assessment revealed a wide range of experience levels with essential RM tools such as donor mapping and proposal writing. While some staff had already incorporated these tools into their work, others needed more hands-on guidance. Many staff were also seeking practical advice on how to apply UNESCO’s Three Pillar RM Strategy effectively.
The training sessions highlighted the need to diversify funding streams, particularly through private sector engagement, multilateral partnerships, and innovative financing models such as impact investments. Reflecting on the training’s effectiveness, Aina Heita Kantewa, National Programme Officer for Education at UNESCO Windhoek Office, highlighted its comprehensive coverage, noting that it addressed key areas such as practical fundraising strategies and building sustainable partnerships.
“The resource mobilization training was highly informative. It addressed all the key areas, from practical fundraising strategies to building meaningful and sustainable partnerships. The facilitator shared valuable tools and insights that we can immediately apply to enhance our resource mobilization efforts in the office,” she said.
By the end of the training, participants had developed a deeper understanding of resource mobilization. Equipped with practical tools and renewed confidence, the team is now better prepared to develop strong proposals, foster strategic partnerships, and approach potential donors with clarity and purpose. This successful training underscores UNESCO’s continued commitment to both staff development and strengthening its resource mobilization capacity, advancing its mission to support Namibia’s development priorities through dynamic, sustainable partnerships.
