About AFAS
A premier learned society dedicated to advancing the understanding of Africa and its diasporas.
Mission & Vision
The Academy for African Studies (AFAS) is a premier learned society dedicated to advancing the understanding of Africa and its diasporas. We mobilise the humanities and social sciences to foster a deeper appreciation of the continent's rich cultures, complex histories, and pressing contemporary issues.
Our mission is to contribute to shaping a brighter future for Africa and its global diasporic communities by investing in groundbreaking research, engaging the public in meaningful dialogues, and influencing policy at all levels.
We provide a dynamic platform for scholarly exchange and collaboration among academics, researchers, and practitioners with a professional interest in African studies, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds to join us as members.
Our Core Values
Who We Are
AFAS is a member-driven organisation and our members are at the heart of everything we do. We support and represent a vibrant community of scholars in the UK and beyond, helping to elevate the field of African studies to new heights.
We publish leading academic journals that contribute to the global body of knowledge on African studies, and organise conferences and events that bring together scholars, students, and professionals. Our flagship event, the Annual Meeting, is a key gathering for those involved in the study and management of African and diasporic affairs.
Through our website, we provide comprehensive information about the Academy, host events, and foster a vibrant community of scholars. Our target audience includes higher education professionals, university students, policymakers, and anyone interested in African studies.
Governance & Leadership
The Academy is guided by a dedicated Council, which serves as the overarching governing body. This Council comprises the President, the Chair, executive members, and seven Vice Chairs, all distinguished leaders in their respective fields.
Dr Kingsley O Omeihe CMBE FRSA FWAT
President
King Omeihe (PhD) is the President of the Academy for African Studies. He is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the West of Scotland, where he serves as an Associate Lead for Research Impact. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Trust Studies and holds an affiliated position as Chair of African Studies at the British Academy of Management. He is the author of Sage's Qualitative Research Methods for Business Students and received his diploma from the University of Cambridge, his MBA from the University of Aberdeen, and his PhD from the Doctoral College of the University of the West of Scotland. His previous posts include Head of Division at the University of Aberdeen, Founding Director of the Entrepreneurship Programme (University of Aberdeen), Director of the Global Online MBA Programme(University of Aberdeen), Head of the Graduate Apprenticeship Programme at Edinburgh Napier University and Executive Administrator at the Centre for African Research on Enterprise and Economic Development. He is a selected fellow of the West African Transitional Justice Centre and a Senior Economic Advisor on African Economic Policy at the Marcel House.
✉ king.omeihe@uws.ac.uk
Professor Christian Harrison
Chair
Christian Harrison is the Chair of the Academy for African Studies. He is Professor of Leadership and Enterprise at the University of Greater Manchester and Director of the Centre for Leadership and Empowerment, where he also leads the Research and Doctoral Programme for the Off-Campus Division. He is one of 24 renowned experts selected by the UK Government to support the development of ministers, civil servants, public sector leaders and inform policy development. A recognised leadership scholar and media contributor, Professor Harrison has authored numerous publications, including the bestselling Leadership Theory and Research: A Critical Approach to New and Existing Paradigms. He serves as Vice Chair for Communities at the British Academy of Management. He is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, a Certified Management and Business Educator, and a Fellow of the Institute of Business Administration and Knowledge Management. He serves on several editorial boards and panels, and as an external examiner for many UK universities. An experienced consultant and speaker, he has delivered leadership training for the Scottish Government, NHS, SMEs and a host of others. His accolades include an Honorary Doctor of Innovation in Leadership and several distinguished leadership and excellence awards.
✉ C.Harrison2@greatermanchester.ac.ukPartners & Affiliations
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