People-centred development, grounded in justice and dignity
CDSJ exists to advance equitable, accountable, and sustainable development across Africa — connecting community realities with evidence, policy influence, and practical systems change.
Institutional Genesis
Why CDSJ was established
In April 2025, following the withdrawal of USAID funding from Lesotho and across the region, a group of African development professionals came together to sustain the critical work that was at risk of being lost. What began as an immediate response to institutional closure became a commitment to building something more sustainable — an African institution grounded in justice, evidence, partnership, and systems change.
At a Glance
Registered April 2026
Why we exist
CDSJ exists to advance people-centred development by promoting public health, socio-economic empowerment, accountable governance, human rights, gender equality, child protection, research, and access to justice.
The organisation pursues this through evidence-informed programming, strategic partnerships, policy engagement, institutional strengthening, and community-centred action — committed to working across community, institutional, and policy levels so that immediate development responses are linked to longer-term systems change.
Where we're heading
An integrated, prosperous, healthy, and just Africa in which all people are empowered to live with dignity, exercise their rights, and contribute meaningfully to inclusive and sustainable development.
CDSJ envisions societies where development is shaped by equity, accountability, and the active participation of citizens — where justice and development are mutually reinforcing and sustainable progress depends on strong systems and responsive leadership.
What guides everything we do
Respect for Diversity and Inclusion
Valuing the dignity, voice, and participation of all people — ensuring historically marginalised groups are meaningfully included in both institutional processes and programme work.
Transparency and Accountability
Committed to openness, responsible stewardship, and clear accountability to communities, partners, and stakeholders through ethical leadership and honest communication.
Integrity and Impartiality
Acting with honesty, fairness, consistency, and independence — ensuring decisions are guided by principle rather than favouritism or improper influence.
Professionalism and Excellence
Valuing competence, discipline, quality, and responsible performance across programme delivery, research, institutional management, and stakeholder engagement.
Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Learning
A learning-oriented institution valuing evidence, reflection, adaptation, and shared knowledge — driving innovation, accountability, and stronger long-term performance.
Justice and People-Centred Transformation
Development must serve people, protect dignity, and address the structural causes of exclusion — shaping CDSJ's focus on rights, accountability, and systems change.