OTT Conference special | Trusted by whom? Rethinking think tank legitimacy in the African context by Denis Foretia

Recorded live at the OTT Conference 2026 in Rabat, Morocco, this special edition of OTT Talks brings you the keynote speeches from the 10th edition of the conference.

Who are think tanks ultimately accountable to?

In this keynote from the OTT Conference 2026, Denis Foretia examines the complex relationship between legitimacy, independence and trust in African policy research organisations. Drawing on the experience of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation in Cameroon, he reflects on the tensions between governments, funders and citizens — and argues that genuine legitimacy must be earned locally, not borrowed internationally.

Through personal stories and institutional lessons, Denis explores what it takes to build trust with the communities think tanks claim to serve.

Explore more insights from the OTT Conference 2026: https://onthinktanks.org/ott-conference-2026/

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