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Welcome to the Center for African Studies


The Center’s mission is to promote and facilitate teaching, research, and scholarship on Africa in all the disciplines at the University of Florida, with emphasis on sub-Saharan Africa. The Center also disseminates knowledge about Africa to the wider community through its interactions with and outreach programs to schools, colleges, other universities, academic and professional organizations, community groups, and businesses. The Center is committed to sustaining contacts and interactive linkages with individuals and institutions on the African continent and worldwide.

Student Research Journeys in Africa

In the News

Miles Larmer with Guests

2026 Fall Soirée: A Night to Remember

The Fall Soirée brought together faculty, alumni, donors, and friends for an evening celebrating the Center’s impact through student, faculty, and donor-supported research, exchange programs, and creative projects across Africa.

Faculty Feature in Explore magazine

CAS Affiliates Featured in Fall 2026 Issue of Explore

The Fall 2026 issue of UF’s research magazine, Explore, highlights the work of two Center for African Studies affiliates. In “Harvesting Solutions,” Sarah McKune (Environmental and Global Health) and Adegbola Adesogan (Animal Sciences) are featured for their research and contributions to addressing global challenges through innovative agricultural and health solutions.

Saharanism header image

Saharanism Symposium: Conversations on the Sahara and Sahel 

On October 2, 2026, the Center for African Studies (CAS) at the University of Florida hosted the Saharanism Symposium, with hybrid participation from the Université Internationale de Rabat (UIR). This event brought together researchers working on interdisciplinary topics related to the Sahara and the Sahel.

A smartphone and four video player windows showing various people in different outdoor and indoor settings.

2026 Lens on Africa Graduate Research Video Competition Winners

Mohammed Sanda (1st Place), Wambui Gachunga (2nd Place), Brandon Isenman, Abigail Ryan, and Kevin Kimtai (3rd Places)

Two smiling women in traditional African attire standing in front of a cutout of the African continent.

2026 ASX Home Away from Home: Strength in Community

On September 19, 2026, African students from across Gainesville gathered at Pugh Hall to open the academic year with the ASX Home Away From Home Reception. This year’s theme, “Strength in Community: Supporting Success Through Connection,” shaped every part of the evening.