Research, ideas, and leadership for a more secure, peaceful world
Harvard’s signature event highlighting Africa-related student research and collaboration
Hosted by the Africa Futures Project at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, AfriConnect is Harvard’s signature cross-campus event highlighting student work related to the African continent. The program features rapid-fire student presentations followed by an informal networking reception. From public health and climate policy to entrepreneurship and urban planning, AfriConnect brings together students, scholars, and professionals to celebrate the depth and diversity of Africa-focused work across the university.
This year’s AfriConnect featured student presenters and institutional support from across Harvard, including:
- Harvard Kennedy School
- Harvard Business School
- Harvard Graduate School of Design
- Center for African Studies
- Center for International Development
- Africa Caucus (HKS student group)
Joannes Yimbesalu (HKS MC/MPA 2026) presents his job matching platform, Nanaade.
Ejiro Maroh (HBS MBA 2026) and David Bunn (HBS MBA 2026) explain AidraHealth's mission-driven marketplace.
Lily Saki (GSD MArch 2026) strives to tackle Ghana's waste problem with SI Bio.
Christelle Ngono's (HKS MPA/ID 2025) research aims to solve Cameroon's educated youth employment challenge.
Jeese Ovia (HBS MBA 2025) and the fintech platform Ladder believe your money should have a purpose.
AfriConnect 2025 showcased the power of building cross-disciplinary spaces for students driving new policy research and innovative ideas for Africa.
Many thanks to our co-hosts and partners: the Center for African Studies, the Center for International Development, the Africa Caucus, and the broader Belfer Center community. We look forward to welcoming students, faculty, and friends back for AfriConnect 2026.
