Membership

RELI Africa is a member-driven and peer learning initiative that brings together 71+ Civil Society Organizations and Academic Institutions from the East African region working on education with the main aim to enhance learning outcomes in our education systems so that no child is left behind.  Members take the lead in the implementation of various activities across different thematic areas. RELI Africa members are however coordinated and supported by a lean secretariat, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya.

Membership is by invitation and brings together a diverse, energetic, and impactful group of members from across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. RELI members are committed to local education organisations in the region, working tirelessly for the most vulnerable children. Created in 2017, RELI is already seen as the strongest, largest education network in East Africa. RELI stands out as it simultaneously operates as a policy-influencing network, a peer-led community of practice, and an organisational strengthening initiative. 

Membership Eligibility

RELI Africa has two categories of membership.

Corporate Membership

RELI Africa seeks to amplify the local voice in driving education transformation. Corporate membership is therefore open to organizations rooted in the East African region. All founding and existing members of RELI Africa who adhere to this membership charter will automatically qualify for corporate/ordinary membership. Corporate or ordinary members possess voting rights and must meet the following criteria:
  1. Programmatic Impact: The organization implements evidence-based programs, actions, and activities that promote equitable and inclusive quality education for every child.
  2. Alignment of Values: The organization’s values align with those of RELI Africa.
  3. Local Presence: The organization is national or local, formally registered, has a local governance and management structure, and a proven track record of operations in Kenya, Uganda, or Tanzania.
  4. Non-Profit Status: The organization is formally registered in at least one of the countries listed above and operates on a not-for-profit basis.
Corporate members in each country will be represented by elected individuals who will serve on the RELI Africa Board. All corporate members are subject to the rights and responsibilities outlined in this charter.
Honorary Membership
Honorary membership may be conferred upon distinguished individuals or institutions that have demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, or contribution to advancing equitable and inclusive education and to the mission of RELI Africa. Honorary members serve in an advisory and ambassadorial capacity, supporting the network through thought leadership, technical expertise, and strategic guidance. Honorary members do not hold voting rights and are admitted at the discretion of the Board in accordance with RELI Africa’s membership policies.

Membership Admission Process

To join the RELI Africa network as either a corporate or honorary member, the following process must be duly followed:

  • Nomination: The Organization interested in becoming a member of the network shall be nominated and seconded by another existing RELI Africa members.
  • Application: A formal membership Application form shall be completed by organisations interested in being admitted to membership. The Application form shall entail the applicant’s contact information, registration details (for organisations), interest in joining RELI Africa, and program areas with a focus on how the organization  contributes to learning for children left furthest behind.
  • Vetting: The Board of Directors through a fair and transparent process and in consultation with the country leadership teams shall review the membership application, consult members for ratification and approve new members. 
  • Admission to membership: If an applicant is accepted for membership, the board shall consult members for ratification. The member will then be formally admitted for corporate or honorary membership.