Africa-Asia Institute (AAI)
Bridging Continents, Building Futures
The Africa-Asia Institute (AAI) is a pioneering center for South-South cooperation, headquartered in Addis Ababa. It serves as a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, interdisciplinary research, and strategic partnerships between Africa and Asia.
Our Vision
At the core of the Africa-Asia Institute is a simple but transformative vision:
To shape a future defined by mutual respect, cooperative strength, and shared prosperity between Africa and Asia.
We envision a world where Africa and Asia are not peripheral to global decision-making but central to shaping it—where historical bonds evolve into new alliances for sustainable development, innovation, and global peace. This vision includes:
- A world in which scholars from both continents co-produce knowledge that informs public policy.
- A world where people-to-people connections—through culture, language, and education—form the foundation of international cooperation.
- A world where economic growth is driven by joint investment, inclusive trade, and entrepreneurial exchange across borders.
- A world in which Africa and Asia build their futures not in isolation, but in dialogue—celebrating differences while working toward common goals.
Location
AAI is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—a city of global significance and the de facto political capital of Africa. As home to the African Union, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, and numerous diplomatic missions, Addis Ababa is a natural choice for a continental institute focused on international engagement and multilateral cooperation.
Strategically positioned at the heart of Africa, the city offers more than geopolitical relevance. It carries historical weight as a symbol of African independence and unity, and serves as a vibrant cultural and economic hub. The city’s blend of tradition and modernity mirrors AAI’s mission: to respect cultural legacies while embracing innovation and progress.
From Addis Ababa, the Institute will reach across both continents—supporting scholars in Jakarta, peacebuilders in Nairobi, artists in Seoul, and entrepreneurs in Lagos—cultivating a space where diversity thrives and collaboration is the norm.
What We Do
Programs & Activities
Research & Knowledge Generation
- Interdisciplinary research hubs
- Policy analysis and white papers
- Fieldwork facilitation across Africa and Asia
Education & Capacity Building
- Joint degree programs and academic exchanges
- Visiting scholar and fellowship opportunities
- Workshops, public lectures, and seminars
Cultural Exchange & Dialogue
- Cultural exhibitions and festivals
- Music, food, and art diplomacy
- Collaborative media and storytelling initiatives
Economic Partnerships
- Business forums and trade facilitation platforms
- Collaborative innovation ecosystems
Peace & Security Initiatives
- Conflict resolution training
- Regional peace dialogues
- Security policy analysis and cooperation networks
Our Partners
Partnership Criteria
- Commitment to South-South cooperation
- Shared values and aligned missions
- Proven record of excellence and innovation
Who We Work With
- Universities and think tanks in Asia and Africa
- Civil society organizations and development agencies
- Government ministries, diplomatic missions, and private sector leaders
Why Partner with AAI?
- Access to strategic insights
- Global exposure through cultural and policy platforms
- Co-creation of impactful and sustainable initiatives
Core Values
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Excellence
We strive for the highest standards in research, collaboration, and impact across all our initiatives. -
Integrity
We uphold honesty, transparency, and accountability in every partnership and decision. -
Inclusivity
We embrace diverse voices, ensuring equal opportunities and representation across cultures and communities. -
Mutual Respect
We foster respectful dialogue and cooperation, recognizing the value of every perspective. -
Local Relevance, Global Perspective
We ground our work in local contexts while connecting to broader global insights and solutions.
Leadership & Governance
Advisory Board
Composed of renowned scholars, diplomats, Civil Society Leaders, and policy experts from Africa and Asia. Provides strategic oversight.
Executive Team
Includes the Executive Director, Research & Publication Director, Financial Officer, and essential staff.
News & Insights
A hub for:
- Recent research publications
- Opinion pieces and policy briefs
- Event recaps and upcoming activities
- Interviews with visiting scholars and partners