Our 60th Anniversary Exhibition Now Runs Through to 14 June 2026

Extended by popular demand! The Africa Centre's 60th anniversary exhibition now runs until 14 June 2026. Curated by Leon Robinson, it celebrates six decades of African presence, creativity, and cultural influence in Britain, blending archival material with immersive AV, AR, and VR. Explore three sections, a Curtis Essel documentary premiere, and a programme of talks, performances and screenings. Read more

140 Years Beyond the Berlin Conference, SOAS Friday 12 December and Saturday 13 December 2025

Join AFFORD, SOAS, the Fatherland Group, and The Africa Centre for “140 Years Beyond the Berlin Conference,” a two-day symposium examining the lasting political, economic, and cultural impacts of the 1884–85 Berlin Conference. Featuring leading scholars and thinkers, the event explores Africa’s past, present, and future through dialogue and critical reflection. Read more

The Africa Centre Partners with WSICE 2025 To Bridge Continents, Creativity and Critical Thought in Honour of Wole Soyinka

The Africa Centre partners with WSICE 2025 to honour Wole Soyinka at 91 with cross-continental events in Nigeria and the UK. Celebrating youth, creativity, and critical thought, the programme explores decolonisation and artistic leadership. Highlights include performances, panels, workshops, and cultural showcases, uniting generations through art, dialogue, and shared values. Read more

Artist Development Hub - Press Announcement

We're thrilled to announce the launch of Chakula’s Artist Development Hub, an artistic residency program for Black, African and Caribbean LGBTQ+ creatives at the Africa Centre. This initiative was brought forward by Artist and Curator Alizee Ndiaye – over the next few months, Alizee will be developing a performance that explores West African storytelling traditions while examining the evolving role of the Griot in post-colonial society. Read more

The Africa Centre and Nigeria’s National Council for Arts and Culture Forge Strategic Partnership to Champion African Heritage and Innovation

The Africa Centre and Nigeria’s National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) have formed a strategic partnership to co-create cultural programmes, exhibitions, and artistic exchanges. Central to this is Origins, NCAC’s digital storytelling platform, aimed at connecting Africa and its diaspora through heritage, creativity, and innovation. Read more

A TRIBUTE TO DR ALASTAIR NIVEN (25 Feb 1944 – 31 Mar 2025) Former Director-General of The Africa Centre (1978–1984)

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Alastair Niven, Director-General of The Africa Centre (1978–1984). A champion of post-colonial literature, he lectured in Ghana before earning a PhD. At the Centre, he expanded its literary and arts programmes, hosting legends like Achebe and Soyinka. He remained a lifelong supporter. We honour his legacy. Rest in peace, Alastair. Read more

Announcing the Installation of "When it Rains I’ll Send For You" by Peju Alatise at The Africa Centre

When It Rains, I’ll Send For You is a sequel to Sim and the Yellow Glass Birds, expanding on the story of Sim, a child rented out as a domestic servant in Nigeria. Peju Alatise creates fantasy spaces where children dream and adults reconnect with their inner child. Using Yoruba folklore, her work challenges societal norms while reflecting on Nigeria’s past, present, and future through multidisciplinary art. Read more

The Africa Centre & Fatherland Group Mark 140th Anniversary of the Berlin Conference

The Africa Centre (UK) and Fatherland Group (Nigeria) mark 140 years since the Berlin Conference with a press conference on its legacy and impact. A 2025 program of events will explore its effects and reimagine Africa’s future. Read more

Exciting Partnership Announcement: Nolly Africa HD  & The Africa Centre

Nolly Africa HD has partnered with The Africa Centre to celebrate African culture and heritage. This collaboration will showcase African talent through exclusive content, events, and discussions, amplifying African voices globally. Read more

Africa Fashion Week London Partners With The Africa Centre for 2024

Africa Fashion Week London began collaborating with The Africa Centre in 2014, showcasing African fashion in Covent Garden. A decade later, their partnership continues, celebrating African heritage through fashion and culture. Read more

THE AFRICA CENTRE STATEMENT ON THE 2024 UK RACE RIOTS

The Africa Centre mourns the tragic loss of three young girls in Southport and condemns the Far Right's exploitation of the tragedy to incite fear and racism. They call for community mobilization, education, and allyship to counteract hate and emphasize the importance of understanding the true roots of societal challenges. Read more

Little Baobab starts its restaurant residency at the Centre from September 2024

Little Baobab, London's favorite Senegalese restaurant, is moving to the Africa Centre, open Tuesday to Sunday. Enjoy seasonal dinner menus, casual lunches, and live music, featuring authentic Senegalese dishes like Thiebou Dienne, Yassa, and Mafe. With 10 years of experience, they'll continue operating in Peckham Levels and hosting events with Senegalese flair. Read more

WOLE SOYINKA @ 90:  A GRAND TRIBUTE AT THE AFRICA CENTRE

London, UK – June 19, 2024 – Professor Wole Soyinka, the first African Nobel laureate in Literature, is honored at The Africa Centre in a vibrant 9-day programme from July 19-27, celebrating his contributions to literature and human rights. Events include exhibitions, film screenings, live music, poetry recitals, and discussions on publishing, AI's cultural impact, and decolonization. Highlights include the London premiere of "THE MAN DIED," and the "WS: A Life in Full" exhibit. Celebrations coi Read more

The Africa Centre Announces Partnership with London School of Samba (LSS)

The Africa Centre has announced the renewal of its partnership with the London School of Samba (LSS) as part of its 60th-anniversary celebrations. The Africa Centre, known for promoting African heritage and education, is excited to team up again with LSS, a key player in London's cultural scene, as LSS celebrates its 40th anniversary as the UK's first samba school. This collaboration, which traces its roots back to their shared history in Covent Garden, will feature a series of workshops at T Read more

Request for Proposal - Restaurant & Bar

We are seeking proposals from qualified and experienced operators specialising in African cuisine and beverages to run our restaurant and bar. We welcome applications for the operation of both or the individual spaces. Read more

The Africa Centre announces programme for its 60th anniversary

November 2024 marks 60 years since The Africa Centre first opened the doors to its original headquarters in Covent Garden, London. To celebrate this milestone year, CEO Olu Alake has announced an exciting programme of events happening throughout the year, culminating in a major event in November. Read more

New food and beverage residencies: Cally Munchy and Abura

Cally Munchy is The Africa Centre's new restaurateur while Abura operates the bar Read more

Olu Alake to join The Africa Centre as its new CEO

The Board of Trustees and staff of The Centre are pleased to announce the appointment of Olu Alake as the charity’s new Chief Executive Officer. Read more

The Africa Centre is supporting inaugural Climate Photo Essay Prize

The Prize is aimed at young people aged 18-30 based in Africa or from the global African diaspora community. Leading figures from the art world have been appointed to judge the contest, with finalists going on to have their work exhibited at leading galleries across New York, London, and Lagos. Read more