Board member

Board of Directors — Rejoice Africa Foundation (RAF Ug)

Rejoice Africa Foundation (RAF Ug) is a registered nonprofit organization in Uganda committed to advancing climate justice, community health, poverty reduction, and long-term resilience for frontline communities. At the heart of this work is a Board of Directors that guides the organization with integrity, vision, and accountability.

1. The Role of the Board

The Board of Directors serves as the governing and stewardship body of Rejoice Africa Foundation. Board members provide strategic guidance, ethical leadership, and oversight to ensure that the Foundation remains true to its mission while responding responsibly to the needs of communities, partners, and future generations.

The Board’s role is not to manage day-to-day activities, but to protect the mission, strengthen leadership, and ensure transparency and sustainability in all that RAF Ug does.

1. Core Responsibilities

a) Strategic Leadership & Mission Stewardship

Board members collectively:

• Uphold and periodically review the Foundation’s mission, vision, and long-term direction.
• Approve strategic plans that guide programs, partnerships, and community impact.
• Track progress and ensure that strategies are translated into meaningful, measurable outcomes for communities.

b) Governance & Ethical Leadership

The Board is responsible for:

• Establishing clear governance policies that guide ethical conduct, decision-making, and accountability.
• Ensuring compliance with Ugandan nonprofit laws, NGO regulations, and organizational bylaws.
• Protecting the Foundation’s integrity and ensuring decisions reflect shared values of equity, care, and justice.

c) Financial Oversight & Sustainability

Board members act as stewards of the Foundation’s resources by:

• Reviewing and approving annual budgets and financial plans.
• Ensuring funds are used responsibly, transparently, and in line with donor and community trust.
• Supporting fundraising efforts and long-term financial sustainability without compromising mission or values.

d) Executive Leadership Support

The Board:

• Appoints, supports, and evaluates the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
• Provides guidance, encouragement, and accountability to executive leadership.
• Maintains a healthy balance between governance responsibilities and staff management roles.

e) Accountability & Risk Awareness

Board members help safeguard the organization by:

• Promoting transparency, ethical behavior, and responsible leadership.
• Identifying organizational risks and ensuring appropriate safeguards and controls are in place.
• Protecting the Foundation’s reputation and public trust.

f) Advocacy & Representation

As ambassadors of RAF Ug, board members:

• Represent the organization with integrity among communities, partners, donors, and public institutions.
• Strengthen relationships that advance climate action, community wellbeing, and social justice.
• Help amplify the voices and priorities of the communities RAF Ug serves.

1. Board Positions and Roles

Rejoice Africa Foundation’s leadership structure includes a Chairperson of the Board of Directors, supported by other key roles as outlined in the organization’s bylaws.

• Chairperson (Board President)

The Chairperson:

• Provides overall leadership to the Board.
• Facilitates productive board meetings and inclusive decision-making.
• Works closely with the CEO to ensure strategic alignment and accountability.
• Treasurer

The Treasurer:

• Oversees financial policies, reporting, and accountability.
• Supports transparent budgeting and financial decision-making.
• Helps ensure the organization’s financial health and integrity.
• Secretary

The Secretary:

• Maintains accurate board records and meeting minutes.
• Ensures timely communication, documentation, and compliance with governance requirements.
• Supports orderly and effective board operations.
• At-Large Directors

At-Large Board Members:

• Bring diverse skills, lived experience, and professional expertise (e.g., climate action, community development, finance, law, health, or fundraising).
• Serve on committees and provide guidance aligned with their strengths.
• Offer perspectives grounded in both community realities and strategic thinking.

1. Qualifications & Expectations of Board Members

While backgrounds may vary, effective board members typically share the following qualities:

a) Values-Driven Leadership

• Strong personal integrity and ethical judgment.
• A genuine commitment to the Foundation’s mission and the communities it serves.
• Willingness to lead with humility, care, and responsibility.

b) Relevant Experience & Insight

• Experience in leadership, governance, nonprofit work, climate justice, health, education, law, finance, or community development.
• Ability to think strategically, ask thoughtful questions, and contribute constructively to decision-making.

c) Active Participation & Accountability

• Commitment to attend meetings, prepare in advance, and participate fully.
• Respect for confidentiality, fiduciary responsibility, and collective decision-making.
• Willingness to serve as advocates for the Foundation beyond board meetings.

d) Collaboration & Respect

• Ability to work respectfully with fellow board members, staff, and partners.
• Commitment to upholding organizational values publicly and privately.

1. Supporting the Mission of Rejoice Africa Foundation

Board members play a vital role in ensuring that Rejoice Africa Foundation:

• Remains rooted in community-led climate resilience, health equity, and poverty reduction.
• Adapts thoughtfully to changing social, environmental, and economic conditions.
• Builds long-term trust, credibility, and impact for present and future generations.

Through principled leadership and shared responsibility, the Board helps ensure that Rejoice Africa Foundation continues to rejoice in life, dignity, and justice for African communities.