Fru Ndi Institute for Democracy’s Supervisory Council and Advisory Council carry out different formal governance duties, as set out in Fru Ndi Institute for Democracy’s Constitution. At the same time, members of each Council are committed to lending their seniority, expertise and status to Fru Ndi Institute for Democracy as it executes its work.
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Fru Ndi Institute for Democracy thrives because of the dedication, expertise, and passion of those who work with us. We are proud to have an extensive global network of offices and partners, all united in the pursuit of establishing responsive democratic systems. Our organization is composed of around 80 committed individuals working across various offices worldwide. Our Country Offices, led by Fru Ndi Institute for Democracy Country Directors and Representatives, are strategically located throughout Africa. Additionally, a team of about 12 international staff supports our global programmes from Geneva. Our Swiss office is divided into four core teams: Programmes & Knowledge, Grants Management, Positioning, and Finance, Control & Support.
Manuella Ebong
Country Director, FNID Cameroon
Rahid Tahir
Country Director, FNID Niger
Jean-Clair Massena
Country Director, FNID RCA
Paule-Celine Bourget
Country Director, FNID DRC
Victor Nkwenti
Executive Director
Esther Ndongmo
Head of programmes & Knowledge
Rupert Lallemant
Head of Finances, Control and Support
Clarisse Tchouapi
Head of positioning
Our story began in Cameroon, where we sought to preserve the legacy of one of the most influential political figures in the country’s history, John Fru Ndi, fondly known as the “Chairman.” His lifelong struggle was to create a democratic culture in Cameroon, where the people’s voices would be heard, and equality and justice would prevail. After his passing in 2023, a group of prominent political actors came together to ensure his fight would live on.
The goal was clear: to build a strong, inclusive, and democratic society in Cameroon and beyond, especially in nations often labeled as part of the “Third World.” Yet, like in many regions, the foundation for a true democratic culture was fragile, and the institutions to support it were lacking.
To carry forward John Fru Ndi’s vision, political leaders, civil society, and democratic movements from various parts of the world joined forces. Inspired by the Chairman’s fight for freedom and equal representation, the FNID was established in 2024, with a mission to cultivate and nurture democratic values across Cameroon and other nations facing similar challenges.
For the first time, political parties in Cameroon were encouraged to work together in the spirit of dialogue, consensus, and trust. This collaborative environment had a transformative effect on the political landscape, fostering greater cooperation and understanding across divides.
Inspired by this success, the FNID feels justified in extending its reach beyond Cameroon, with programmes in several African countries, promoting dialogue, peace and democratic culture in the regions that need them most.
Our multiparty identity gives us the unique ability to engage impartially with all political parties in the countries where we operate. Through our work, we aim to create lasting systems of democracy that reflect the vision of John Fru Ndi, a legacy that endures through the generations to come.