We are a knowledge hub for collaborative research, library services and communication that supports a deeper understanding of contemporary African perspectives, challenges and opportunities.

As a Swedish research-led public agency and as a beneficiary of several Nordic governments, we are uniquely positioned to play a strategic role in analysing the challenges and opportunities facing Africa.

We belive that credible, legitimate and relevant knowledge can help inform the decision-making that affects people’s lives.

• We do research and generate knowledge
  We do transdisciplinary research on contemporary Africa and we co-create knowledge with our Nordic and African partners.
• We give research-based policy advice
  We give decision makers a deeper understanding by lifting both African and Nordic perspectives.
• We contribute to sustainable development
  Our policy advice aims to make African and Nordic decision makers work effectively together to improve the equality, dignity and welfare of all.

Read more about our vision, mission and theory of change in the 2022-2026 strategy

Impact areas

In order to realise effective policy relevance, the Institute’s research, communication and library functions will work together to generate policy impact in five impact areas:

1. Equality, Social Justice & Inclusion
2. Governance, Citizenship & Participation
3. Economy, Employment & Mobility
4. Climate, Natural Resources & Sustainability
5. Peace, Security & Human Rights

Read more about our impact areas in the 2022-2026 strategy

Organisation

The Nordic Africa Institute is a Swedish public agency, jointly financed by the Nordic countries Sweden, Finland and Iceland. As an authority it is led by a director, who is ultimately responsible to the Swedish government for the decisions taken.

Director

Programme and Research Council

NAI has an advisory body called the Programme and Research Council. Each Nordic country that funds NAI appoints two council members, with at least one representing their country’s research community.

Read more about our organisational structure in the 2022-2026 strategy

Regulation documents and reports