The Centre for Development Communication (formerly MAWA Foundation) emerged from a passion for effective and inclusive communication for accountable governance. Originating as a community media initiative, we address the roots of poor public accountability. Our dynamic approach blends communication for development, capacity building, research, and advocacy to foster growth, development,  democracy, good governance, climate justice, health, education, and human rights.  

The Centre for Development Communication – CDC (formerly MAWA-Foundation) is a nonprofit organization that works to achieve development, promote public accountability, and good governance through participatory communication. We do this by empowering citizens and communities to demand public accountability from the authorities, undertake research to understand development issues affecting the people that will enable success in the design and implementation of development interventions, investigative reports that expose corruption and hold government and powerful individuals accountable, facilitates development communication that empowers citizens and communities to effectively participate in the discussion and decision-making on issues affecting them through a communication.

Our journey began in 2014 when we set out as a community media organization, fueled by the conviction that a robust public accountability system is the antidote to corruption and the bedrock of good governance. Witnessing the erosion of accountability and the muffled voices of vulnerable groups, we knew it was time to act.

Our core mission is the unwavering commitment to addressing the root causes of poor public accountability discourse. We recognize that empowering vulnerable communities is pivotal in restoring accountability, a cornerstone for fostering good governance. In our pursuit of excellence, we have evolved into a leading force in the realm of civic engagement.

The Centre is more than an organization; it’s a movement dedicated to shaping the future. Our founders, driven by the aspiration to enhance participatory communication that fosters public accountability and citizens’ capacity—the driving forces of development in any democratic society—established the Centre to bridge the gaps and elevate the standards of civic engagement.

Our Approach

CDC employs a multi-faceted approach, combining capacity building, thorough participatory communication, research, media investigations, and impactful advocacy. Through these avenues, we aim to inspire positive change, empower communities, and shape policies that promote the greater good.

Join us on this transformative journey as we redefine the narrative of civic engagement and accountability. At the Centre, we believe in the power of collective action to build a brighter, more accountable future for generations to come. Together, let’s shape and build a society where development, justice, and equity reign supreme.