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ANU Africa Network
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This website was established in 2013 by David Lucas, and renovated and relaunched in 2020 as part of a project to increase awareness of Africa and African studies in the ANU and the ACT, funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Another outcome of that project was a major research report, published in August 2021, African Studies at the Australian National University and in the Australian Capital Territory, analyzing the past, present and future of the study of Africa at the Australian National University and the wider Australian University sector.
The major innovation on this updated website is the creation of the ACT Africa Expert Directory which lists experts on Africa from institutions around the ACT, primarily the ANU. We will continue to curate this list, offering a key resource for media, government and non-government organizations seeking expert facts and opinions on Africa. Individuals can request to be added to the list by contacting the website managers.
Another notable addition is the expanded directory of PhD theses on Africa produced in the territory’s universities, a solid measure of the vitality of the study of Africa in the city of Canberra.
Reviewing these directories, it is revealing to note that the vast majority of research on Africa is produced by disciplinary experts (environmental scientists, economists, demographers, etc.) rather than area studies experts. This means that the study of Africa is woven into the fabric of the research culture of the ANU and the ACT’s other universities in ways that are not necessarily apparent.
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Celebrating 33 years of Eritrean independence!
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Today, we proudly commemorate the 33rd anniversary of Eritrea’s independence. We extend our heartfelt wishes to all the courageous Eritreans celebrating this significant day.
Eritrea’s journey to independence began with the end of Italian colonial rule in 1941. Following a decade of British administration, the United Nations established Eritrea as an autonomous region within the Ethiopian federation in 1952. However, Ethiopia’s full annexation of Eritrea as a province in 1962 ignited a protracted and violent 30-year struggle for independence. This conflict culminated in 1991 when Eritrean fighters triumphed over Ethiopian government forces, leading to an overwhelming approval of independence in a 1993 referendum. Since then, Isaias Afwerki has been Eritrea’s sole president.
The relationship between Eritrea and Ethiopia further deteriorated after a severe border war from 1998 to 2000. However, a turning point occurred when the newly elected Ethiopian Prime Minister signed declarations of peace and friendship, leading to a renewed phase of diplomacy. Eritrean leaders actively engaged in fostering regional peace, security, and cooperation, as well as mediating rapprochements between governments and opposition groups in the Horn of Africa.
In 2018, the United Nations Security Council lifted the arms embargo imposed on Eritrea in 2009. Despite this, Eritrea faced renewed international condemnation and US sanctions in mid-2021 due to its involvement in the conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, where Eritrean forces were implicated in war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Economically, Eritrea remains heavily dependent on agriculture and continues to be one of Africa’s poorest nations. Nonetheless, the spirit and resilience of the Eritrean people remain a testament to their enduring quest for peace and prosperity.
Happy Independence Day, Eritrea!
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Fostering women’s empowerment through storytelling
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EVENT LOCATION
146 Ellery Cres, Acton ACT 2601
TIME: 06:30PM (Canberra Time)
Please join us on the 26th of this month for a panel discussion featuring a group of African women and women of African descent who will be sharing their experiences of living and working in Australia.
The panel will include some amazing female politicians, academics, and industry leaders who are thriving in their respective fields in Australia.
We will unveil the names of the panellists starting tomorrow, so please stay tuned for updates.
If you are interested in attending, please complete the RSVP form provided
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We need volunteers
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Media, Research, and Events
Are you passionate about African and Australian affairs and interested in contributing a few hours of your time and skills? We are seeking individuals to join our media, research, and events teams.
Come join us and engage in what you love alongside a team of dedicated colleagues.
Indicate your interest today; we eagerly await your response!
