YMCA Health Assessments Strengthen Movements Across Africa
Gamification for Environmental Action
22/07/2025
In a united effort to strengthen organisational capacity and advance Vision 2030, several national movements recently completed Organisational Health Assessments under the Strategic Alignment and Movement Strengthening (SAMS) initiative.
SAMS, coordinated by the World YMCA , in close partnership with YMCA Area Alliances and National Movements, is designed to foster alignment, enhance governance and build long-term sustainability. Using a shared assessment tool and a collaborative review process, each YMCA has the opportunity to reflect deeply on its strengths, identify areas for growth and set priorities for the future.
Between July and August 2025, YMCAs in Ethiopia, Ghana, Madagascar, South Africa and Togo participated in this process. The assessments are confidential and non-comparative, focusing on building local ownership of development plans and ensuring each YMCA is better equipped to meet the needs of young people and communities in a changing world.
Ethiopia YMCA : 10–13 July 2025
From 10–13 July 2025, Ethiopia YMCA engaged in a comprehensive review of its operations and organisational health. The process involved broad participation from staff, leadership and partners, underscoring the movement’s strong commitment to Vision 2030. Discussions touched on governance, sustainability and programme reach, with the aim of shaping a tailored Organisational Development Plan for the 2025–2029 strategic period. This collaborative exercise is set to reinforce coordination among its branches and further position the YMCA as a key youth development leader in Ethiopia.
Madagascar YMCA : 16–18 July 2025
Between 16–18 July 2025, YMCA Madagascar undertook its health assessment as part of a SAMS pilot aimed at refining the global tool before broader rollout. The structured review enabled the team to examine internal systems, programme delivery and organisational resilience. Stakeholders explored how to build on existing strengths, address operational gaps and integrate innovation into future planning. The outcomes will shape strategies for local growth while also contributing valuable insights to the wider YMCA Movement.
Ghana YMCA : 21–24 July 2025
From 21–24 July 2025, Ghana YMCA’s leadership and representatives from across its branches came together for their health assessment. The review created space to pause from daily operations and reflect on strengthening governance frameworks, diversifying resources and deepening inclusivity. Guided by the SAMS process, participants considered practical ways to enhance systems, increase engagement across the network and ensure that the YMCA continues to play a vital role in communities throughout the country.
Togo YMCA : 25–29 July 2025
At the end of July 2025, Togo YMCA carried out its health assessment, engaging voices from across its branches to reflect on the organisation’s reach and potential. The review explored ways to revitalise inactive branches, strengthen governance and embed inclusive practices. By focusing on sustainability and capacity building, the process is helping to shape a roadmap for a stronger and more connected YMCA presence nationwide.
South Africa YMCA : 6–7 August 2025
In early August 2025, South Africa YMCA hosted its health assessment, bringing together national leaders and representatives from member associations. The process offered an opportunity to review governance and management systems, operational practices and the alignment between national and local capacities. It also sparked dialogue on how to strengthen Vision 2030 implementation through coordinated planning, enhanced accountability and improved resource mobilisation.
Through these coordinated assessments, the YMCA network is charting a united path forward ensuring that national movements remain resilient, mission-driven and capable of delivering lasting positive impact for young people, families and communities. The process is still ongoing in other countries and updates will follow when they are through.
