About

RLRI Africa Program

We are a pan-African research and implementation initiative focused on practical, evidence-based solutions shaped by local context and community priorities.

Who we are

Innovating Truth, Impacting Lives.

The Real Life Research Institute – Africa Programs shares the same vision as its parent organization, Real Life Research Institute, to create a more equitable and resilient world where no one is left behind. Rooted in a Pan-African approach, our work connects youth, researchers, and practitioners across the continent and with global partners to generate locally grounded knowledge and drive practical impact. The Africa Program operates as a regionally responsive and impact-oriented initiative within the Real Life Research Institute. We work across diverse African contexts to identify pressing challenges, support globally led research, and co-create solutions that respond to community priorities and lived realities in Africa. Our approach centers African voices, values local knowledge, and ensures that research is not only produced but used to inform policies, strengthen institutions, and improve everyday lives.

When African-led research is connected to global knowledge systems and translated into policy and practice, it leads to more effective, context-sensitive and inclusive outcomes.

Theory of change · RLRI Africa Programs

Our value

What Sets Us Apart

  • Our Vision

    A more equitable and resilient world where no one is left behind.

  • Our Mission

    Our mission is to advance Africa-led research, innovation and technology to strengthen global connections and bridge policy and practice for inclusive development.

  • Our Theory of Change

    We believe that when African-led research is connected to global knowledge systems and translated into policy and practice, it leads to more effective, context-sensitive and inclusive outcomes.

Our impact

Sustainable solutions to emerging challenges

We translate African-led research into policy and practice and connect African and global expertise to deliver sustainable solutions to emerging challenges.

Teams

People behind the work

Our teams bring together researchers, program staff, and field partners across Africa. We collaborate across thematic programs and country contexts to deliver accountable, community-centered research and implementation—with leadership that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

Volunteers

Volunteer with us

Volunteers strengthen our outreach, events, and research support. We are open to receiving volunteers from around the world who share our values. If you want to contribute your time and skills, we would love to hear from you—see our Volunteers page for details, or explore ways to get involved below.

Empowering roots: Why the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies matters for small-scale fisheries

Our commitment

Empowering young minds, building brighter futures.

Get involved

Work with us

Explore programs, upcoming events, or reach out to collaborate on research and community-driven solutions across Africa.