Africa is increasingly emerging as a major factor in global politics, security and development. The continent remains a contested zone for external actors, as well as being a site of internal conflicts. But the story of contemporary Africa goes far beyond the ‘standard’ image of conflict, bad governance and underdevelopment.

Programme Outline

There is an emergent and powerful counter–narrative of conflict resolution initiatives under the auspices of continental organizations such as the African Union, and regional bodies; issues of governance are now taking centre stage, and it is Africans who are energizing the process. Africa is becoming a global player in the strategic energy and minerals sectors; and Africa is an integral part of the discourse on climate change.

The Africa Programme at the Royal United Services Institute thus recognizes the complexity and differentiation of Africa, and stimulates debate, research, projects and interaction amongst policy–makers, researchers and practitioners with a particular interest in African defence and security issues, and their impact on global development. The interaction between conflict, development and business in Africa is also a major theme in the Programme.  Whilst acknowledging the need for diverse perspectives on events in Africa, the RUSI Africa Programme is particularly keen to promote African voices in the discourse.