Background/ Context
Across West Africa, civic space is facing increasing pressure as governments implement and enforce laws that often restrict freedoms of association, assembly, and expression. Although national constitutions and regional frameworks guarantee these rights, civil society organisations (CSOs) often encounter shrinking operational space, legal uncertainty, and, in some cases, harassment or suspension. Complex and sometimes unclear regulatory regimes regarding registration, reporting, taxation, and anti-money laundering requirements have further constrained CSOs, particularly smaller and grassroots groups that have limited legal or administrative capacity. These challenges have fostered a climate of caution, undermining the ability of CSOs to advocate freely and hold those in power accountable.
Despite these obstacles, CSOs across the region are demonstrating remarkable resilience. New networks and initiatives are emerging to strengthen legal literacy, improve compliance systems, and engage constructively with regulatory authorities. However, significant gaps remain in knowledge, capacity, and institutional readiness to meet regulatory requirements and protect civic space. Strengthening organisational compliance systems, enhancing understanding of legal frameworks, and promoting dialogue between civil society and regulators are essential steps toward safeguarding civic freedoms and ensuring a vibrant, accountable civil society sector in West Africa.
About the CSR-Hub
The Civic Space Resource Hub (CSR-Hub) is the West Africa hub of the Global Weaving Resilience initiative, designed to strengthen the capacities of civil society organisations (CSOs) in the region. The goal is to make them more resilient, well-resourced, compliant, and sustainable. Through a 12-month programme of tailored training, mentorship, coaching, and institutional support, the CSR-Hub enhances the operational, digital, financial, and governance systems of CSOs working to defend and advance civic freedoms. Since its inception in 2022, the initiative has supported over 200 organisations through its four strategic pillars including;
- Civic Space Protection and Regulatory Compliance
- Leadership and Organisational Governance
- Resource Mobilisation and Financial Resilience
- Digital Security and Protection
About the Civic Space Protection and Regulatory Compliance Pillar
This pillar focuses on strengthening the ability of CSOs to navigate the complex legal, policy, and regulatory environments governing civil society operations in West Africa. It aims to help organisations operate confidently within national laws, policies and regulations, uphold high standards of accountability, and effectively advocate for an enabling civic space that protects freedoms of association, expression, and assembly. Through this pillar, selected organisations will receive support to:
- Understand and comply with national laws, policies, and regulations governing CSOs.
- Strengthen internal compliance systems, registration status, and governance documentation.
- Build capacity to engage constructively with regulatory bodies.
- Enhance advocacy efforts for civic space protection and legal reforms.
- Improve risk management and safeguarding practices.
What to expect across pillars
Successful organisations will participate in a structured capacity-strengthening and coaching programme over the period, which includes:
- A 3-days training facilitated season professionals
- Personalised one-on-one coaching and mentoring.
- Advisory support and practical guidance to strengthen your organisation’s work.
- Handholding throughout the process, especially during action planning.
- Peer learning opportunities with other participating organisations.
- Tailored mentoring sessions based on your organisation’s specific needs.
- Connections with previous CSR-Hub cohorts for shared learning and collaboration.
- Space to contribute to regional discussions on shrinking civic space and strategies to counter restrictions.
- Access to the CSR-Hub regional learning and advocacy platform.
Who can apply
This call is open to:
- Legally registered civil society organisations operating in Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal.
- Civil society organisations including non-governmental organisations, community-based (grassroots) organisations, faith-based organisations, with priority consideration for women or youth led organisations.
- Organisations must have been active for at least two (2) years and demonstrate a clear commitment to social justice, human rights, open civic space, advocacy etc.
- Grassroots and emerging organisations with limited access to institutional support are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Have at least five (5) full-time staff or a consistent volunteer structure.
- Be willing to commit to active participation in all training and mentorship sessions throughout the cohort period.
- Be willing to share relevant organizational documents for compliance review (e.g. registration certificate, constitution, board list, policy manuals).
Timelines
- Call for Application Opens – 19 December 2025
- Application Deadline – 30 January 2026
- Notification to Selected Organisations February 2026
- Cohort IV Onboarding & Orientation – February 2026
- Training, coaching & mentoring – March – November 2026
For more inquiries about the application process, please visit our social media handles or contact us at csrhubwestafrica@wacsi.org Cc: pia@wacsi.org.
Application Deadline: Friday 30 January 2026 by 11:59pm GMT
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