Bridging Research and Action
Catalyst East Africa (CEA) is a research and development organisation dedicated to translating rigorous research into tangible solutions for mankind’s most pressing challenges. We ensure knowledge does not remain theory, but becomes lived reality.
Addressing Interwoven Challenges
The risks we face are not isolated. They demand urgent, coordinated, and evidence-based responses. Click on a challenge below to learn more about our focus.
Environmental Degradation
Fragile Health Systems
Educational Gaps
Misuse of AI
Donor Overdependence
Community Exclusion
Our Dual Mandate Approach
We unite the roles of a think tank and a development agency to create a powerful cycle of research, action, and impact, ensuring our work leads to lasting change.
Think Tank
Generate credible, policy-relevant research to inform solutions.
Development Agency
Manage grants and empower communities to apply knowledge.
This synergy ensures research outcomes are not just published, but lived.
A Partnership of Reciprocity
Our work is founded on a unique partnership with several funders, acting as a bridge between East African communities and global networks of wisdom and innovation.
This collaboration is built on a shared commitment to humanity’s well-being, grounded in mutual respect for diverse knowledge systems. It allows us to integrate traditional wisdom with modern research, creating holistic and culturally-attuned solutions that honor both heritage and progress.
Proposed Research Programs
Our programs are designed to be interdisciplinary and community-led, addressing the interconnected nature of the challenges we face.