A foundation to build on and a mirror to grow by: Jude Ilo and CSO sustainability, By Ijeoma Dove-Oforka

Jude Ilo's "Building on Solid Ground" provides a practical and accessible guide for civil society organizations (CSOs) in Africa. The book aims to help founders and leaders build their organizations on a solid foundation of purpose and sustainability, rather than just good intentions.

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Building on Solid Ground” earns its title. It is practical, honest and timely, and it is written with the kind of clarity that respects your time.

Author Ilo breaks down complex issues into clear, actionable steps, making the book feel like a conversation with an experienced professor. It tackles critical areas such as leadership, people management, accountability, and long-term sustainability. The initial section focuses on the fundamental 'why' behind establishing an organization, urging readers to deeply consider their core purpose, which shapes all subsequent actions.

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If you work in Africa’s civil society space, this book belongs on your shelf, because it gives you both a foundation to build on and a mirror to grow by.

The book then delves into strategy development, offering practical insights into the 'who,' 'how,' and 'what' of building a robust strategy. Ilo highlights a common struggle in Africa where organizations may avoid setting specific objectives to remain broad enough for diverse funding opportunities. He also addresses the internal workings of established organizations, encouraging self-reflection on actual operations and emphasizing the importance of accountability and oversight mechanisms.

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It felt like sitting across from a professor who breaks things down the way they actually work on the ground.

Particularly relevant in the current climate of shrinking civic space and limited resources, the book's final section offers timely lessons. Ilo's call to focus on tangible results and move away from relying solely on polished social media presence resonates deeply with those facing contemporary pressures. The book serves as both a foundational resource and a reflective tool for growth within Africa's civil society sector.

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The book doesn’t shy away from the real issues that civil society organisations (CSOs) are faced with, including leadership, people management, accountability, and sustainability.