Shaping the Future Through Critical Dialogue

CDT fosters open debate, critical inquiry, and engagement to challenge ideas, spark new perspectives, and bridge the gap between expertise and public discourse.

Our Story

Critical Discourse & Thinking (CDT) was born from a simple, radical belief: that the next generation of thinkers will reshape how the world understands itself and that Africa must not only be part of that shift, but must be at the center.

Our Approach

Live Discussions

Live Discussions is our core pillar for fostering meaningful engagement and transformative thinking. Through critical dialogue, we facilitate hard conversations on pressing global and African countries’ issues, creating space for reflection, debate, and shared understanding. Our events, including webinars, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, bring together thought leaders to exchange ideas and build narratives crucial for effective policy development. Our conversations are designed as inclusive forums that feature multiple voices and perspectives, allowing varying viewpoints and promoting collaborative learning. Additionally, our book club is a space to explore influential literature that informs action and inspires change, further anchoring our commitment to intellectual curiosity and socially responsive dialogue.

Research & Insight

We deliver sharp, data-driven research that tracks Africa’s emerging trends and transformative shifts. From tech innovation and socio-economic sustainability to policy developments, our work unpacks the forces shaping the continent’s future. Every insight is grounded in local realities while framed with global relevance, offering fresh, original perspectives. Designed for changemakers, strategists, and advocates, our analysis is clear, accessible, and built to inform impactful action.

Collaborative Forums

We create spaces that spark cross-disciplinary dialogue and collective insight. Through memberships, strategic partnerships, and open forums, we’re building a dynamic network of researchers, innovators, and policy thinkers. Our forums are designed to facilitate collaborative knowledge-sharing, foster idea exchange, and support the co-creation of new frameworks for understanding and action. At the core of this work is a commitment to inclusive, community-driven, knowledge and human-design approaches that center local voices and drive meaningful impact.

Leadership Development

We nurture the next generation of African changemakers. Our fellowship programs support early-career professionals working in critical fields, providing them with the resources and guidance to lead with purpose. Through mentorship and training, we equip emerging leaders with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to drive impact in their communities and beyond. Our growing alumni network connects a vibrant community of innovators, advocates, and visionaries who are actively shaping Africa’s future.

John Quincy Adams

If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader

Arnold Glasow

A good leader takes a little more than his share of the blame, a little less than his share of the credit.

John Maxwell

Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.

Theodore Hesburgh

The very essence of leadership is that you have to have a vision. It's got to be a vision you articulate clearly and forcefully on every occasion.