Originally conceived to foster non-governmental relations between newly independent Africa and Britain, The Africa Centre has since evolved into a forward-thinking, inclusive, and respected cultural institution that promotes positive conversations about Africa. Our mission is to educate, connect and advocate for Africa and its diaspora.

We are committed to serving as custodians of Africa's cultural heritage in London and beyond. Empowering communities and accelerating cultural diversity and equality through collaboration, and strategic partnerships. Our programmes are relevant and impactful, addressing the needs and expectations of our diverse communities and transforming lives.

The Africa Centre was the brainchild of Margaret Feeny, who galvanised support from both Africans and Britons in London to help convert the idea of a space dedicated to championing the cause for independent Africa into reality. The Centre was officially registered as a Charity in 1961. An appropriate venue was needed and the building chosen was an 18th-century former auction room where Benin Bronzes and Boer War artefacts were sold at different times and then penultimately, it became a tomato warehouse.

In 1962, the tomato warehouse at 38 King Street in Covent Garden, London, was purchased by the Catholic church and "gifted to the people of Africa in perpetuity'. It was then transformed into the future iconic Africa Centre building thanks to the help of three willing architects; Lance Wright, Mike Hatrell, and Jaime Dealto, who worked and designed to a very tight budget. Ms. Feeny thought the location of The Africa Centre ideal as ‘it was a central point that was near business, the universities and not far from the Houses of Parliament'. Two years later, in November 1964, the Africa Centre opened its doors to the public. The official inauguration was officiated by the late first president of Zambia, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, Cardinal Laurien Rugambwa from Rwanda, the first black African Cardinal, and Margaret Feeny, the Centre's first Director.

OPENING CEREMONY OG THE AFRICA CENTRE IN 1964: L - R MARGERET FEENEY, CARDINAL LAURIEN RUGAMBWA, KENNETH KAUNDA

The history of the Charity is intrinsically connected to the broader history of the African continent. Conceived at a time when over half of the continent was still under colonial rule, the Centre played a critical role during the nascent years of the struggle for independence. When Pan-Africanist leaders of newly formed independent African governments planned to gather in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to create the Organisation of African Unity (now the African Union) in 1963, serious discussions were taking place in London about the need to establish a space for people of African descent. The growing political discontent across the continent was leading to the displacement of African intellectuals, freedom fighters, writers, poets, artists, academics, etc, many of whom found their way to England, either as exiles or on academic scholarships.

The Africa Centre quickly became a home away from home for the burgeoning African diaspora and a focal point for the multiple voices advocating for freedom and independence, as well as those simply looking for a way to connect with the continent.

We are proud of our contribution to the journeys of future icons and notable politicians, writers, activists, academics, artists, and change drivers such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Alice Walker, Sally Mugabe, Lubaina Hamid, Wole Soyinka, Sokari Douglas Camp, Ben Okri, Walter Rodney and Jazzie B and Soul II Soul among many others. They all entertained, educated, and advocated for issues of vital importance to Africa and its diaspora from The Africa Centre.

Today, we find ourselves at the heart of progressive conversations about Africa, inspired by the fresh consciousness of a new generation and the wisdom of seasoned Pan-African stalwarts.

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We look forward to creating more history and you can participate in the next chapter of our journey by supporting our events, becoming a Friend, volunteering, or donating.

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