Chance for Childhood, which focuses on supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Africa, has appointed Ven Nyamondo as its chief executive.
Nyamondo, who has become the charity’s first Africa-based leader, succeeds former chief executive Anna-mai Andrews, who left the charity in April after 13 years.
Andrews’ departure was part of a decision to progress the charity’s strategy on shifting the power away from the UK and into the countries it operates in.
Nyamondo, who is based in Kigali, Rwanda, officially assumed her role today (1 September), in what the charity said was the natural next step to “ensure leadership is rooted in proximity to the children and communities served”.
She has been with the charity for seven years, working as senior operations manager and then as chief operating officer, before being named interim chief executive on 1 May.
Prior to joining Chance for Childhood, Nyamondo served as director of finance for ADRA Rwanda, a global international non-governmental organisation operating in over 120 countries.
Nyamondo said: “This is more than a leadership transition – it is a bold affirmation of our values and a transformative shift in how power is shared. I look forward to bringing our loyal supporters and donors along with us into this next phase to continue transforming children’s lives.”
Nicoletta Gopsill-Piccolrovazzi, chair of Chance for Childhood, said: “Our Africa-based chief executive is best positioned to navigate the increasing complexities of the local environment, ensuring programmes are effective and managers and partners are held accountable.
“As trustees, we fully support this transformation and remain committed to exceeding our donors’ expectations by demonstrating bold leadership and maximising our impact.
“Other organisations are talking about shifting the power and we are among the first to appoint an African chief executive on the continent.”