The purpose of this paper is to unpack the essentials of the AFI approach and identify the keys to its success. It begins with a brief overview of the global debate on current trends in international cooperation, highlighting the concepts of South-South cooperation and knowledge sharing. The genesis and historical background of the AFI Network is then retraced, followed by an analysis of the conceptual approach, management and, finally, a review of the key success factors and lessons that can be learned from the AFI approach.