RIPESS will participate in the second edition of the African Forum on Social and Solidarity Economy (FORAESS), taking place from 7 to 9 July 2026 at the Grand National Theatre in Dakar. This event brings together institutions, networks, local governments, community organisations and international partners committed to inclusive and transformative economic models across Africa.

During the first edition of the forum, held in Yaoundé in 2024, the Cameroon Social and Solidarity Economy Network (RESSCAM) organised a highly participatory workshop with significant outcomes on “SSE and business innovation with a gender perspective”.

RIPESS representation at FORAESS 2026

RIPESS will be represented by:

  • Elise Pierrette Memong Meno, Secretary General of RAESS, RAESS representative on the RIPESS Board, President of RESSCAM in Cameroon and continental co-chair of GSEF Africa.
  • Sandra Moreno Cadena, Secretary General of RIPESS Intercontinental.

RIPESS’ participation reflects its commitment to strengthening international alliances, supporting continental network articulation and promoting SSE public policies that position Social and Solidarity Economy as a driver of sustainable development in Africa and globally.

Programme

Partners’ Plenary: “International alliances and innovative financing: which partners for a transformative SSE in Africa?”

Wednesday 8 July · 11:45 – 12:15 · Grande Salle

Speakers:

  • Valérie Tiacoh — Director of Societal Innovation Strategy and Human Rights, Orange France
  • Amina Sakioudi — Director General, Mohamed IV Centre for Solidarity Microfinance, Morocco
  • Aude Saldana — Secretary General, GSEF France
  • Amadou Kane — Partnership Officer, Solsoc Africa Burundi
  • Ibon Zugasti — Board Member, ASETT/Mondragón; Managing Director, Prospektiker.es – The Millennium Project, Spain
  • Sandra Moreno — Executive Secretary, RIPESS Intercontinental
  • Moussa Sall — Partnership Officer, SOCODEVI Canada

Moderation: Denise Fatoumata Ndour — Sen’Finances Foundation, Senegal

A key space for African SSE

FORAESS 2026 will be an opportunity to:

  • Promote innovative financing that strengthens community initiatives.
  • Consolidate cooperation between African and international networks.
  • Highlight transformative experiences led by women, youth and territorial organisations.
  • Advance public policies that recognise SSE as a pillar of sustainable development.

More information

Full programme and details: 👉 www.foraess.com