Who We Are
The African Paradiplomacy Network (APN) is an interdisciplinary network which aims to focus scholarly attention on the nature and significance of the internationalisation of African subnational governments as a proactive response to the continent’s myriad of complex development challenges, including understanding and interrogating the competences and capacities that underpin this practice. The APN fosters integrated multidisciplinary partnerships between researchers (e.g., International Relations, Law, Urban Studies and Public Administration), policymakers (e.g., municipal councillors, city officials), and non-state actors (e.g., civil society groups and businesses) across the African continent and beyond.
Background
In July 2019, researchers and policymakers convened in Lagos Nigeria for two days to critically explore the international relations of African sub-national governments and its impact on sustainable development on the continent. Particular attention was focused on the implications of the internationalisation of African NCGs for the nature of socio-economic development and social cohesion in urban areas in Africa. Over the two days, an interdisciplinary network – the African Paradiplomacy Network (APN) was created to facilitate and strengthen research collaborations among the participants.
Who We Are
The African Paradiplomacy Network (APN) is an interdisciplinary network which aims to focus scholarly attention on the nature and significance of the internationalisation of African subnational governments as a proactive response to the continent’s myriad of complex development challenges, including understanding and interrogating the competences and capacities that underpin this practice. The APN fosters integrated multidisciplinary partnerships between researchers (e.g., International Relations, Law, Urban Studies and Public Administration), policymakers (e.g., municipal councillors, city officials), and non-state actors (e.g., civil society groups and businesses) across the African continent and beyond.
Background
In July 2019, researchers and policymakers convened in Lagos Nigeria for two days to critically explore the international relations of African sub-national governments and its impact on sustainable development on the continent. Particular attention was focused on the implications of the internationalisation of African NCGs for the nature of socio-economic development and social cohesion in urban areas in Africa. Over the two days, an interdisciplinary network – the African Paradiplomacy Network (APN) was created to facilitate and strengthen research collaborations among the participants.
Our Goal
Data-Driven Decisions
To generate empirical data that feeds into debates on the international partnerships and strategies of African subnational governments.
Capacity Building
To build capacity by encouraging interest among a new generation of students and early career researchers in issues of paradiplomacy from an African perspective.
Awareness
To raise awareness about the internationalisation strategies of African subnational governments.
Network Members
Dr Ohio Omiunu
Network Co-Convenor
Dr Omiunu is an Associate Professor at University of Kent, United Kingdom.
Google Scholar link
Dr Fritz Nganje
Network Co-Convenor
Dr Nganje is an Associate Professor at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), South Africa.
Google Scholar link
Dr Eric Yankson
Member
Dr Eric Yankson is a Senior Lecturer and the Associate Dean for Research and Innovation of the Faculty of Natural Resources and Spatial Sciences of the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST).
Google Scholar link
Dr Ifeanyichukwu Aniyie
(Lead Development Thematic Stream)
Dr Ifeanyichukwu holds the associate membership qualification of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (United Kingdom), the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria as well as degrees in law and taxation from the University of Benin, Nigeria and the University of Pretoria, South Africa.
Google Scholar link
Dr Chidebe Matthew Nwankwo
Member
Dr Chidebe Matthew Nwankwo currently works at the Department of International and Comparative Law, University of Nigeria. Combining almost a decade of academic research with experience as a solicitor and advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria
Google Scholar link
Ms. Sarah Wanja
Member
Ms. Wanja is a Research Fellow at the Security Management Institute, Kenya School of Government. She provides research, training and advisory services on diverse security-related concerns.
Google Scholar link
Honorary Network Members
Prof Deon Geldenhuys
Honorary Member
Deon Geldenhuys received an MA degree from the University of Pretoria and a PhD from Cambridge University.
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Ese Stephen Owie (D.Phil, Oxon.)
Honorary Member
Dr Ese Owie is an accomplished International Trade Law International Law, Trade Policy and Trade Economics Practitioner.
Prof Mónica Salomón
Honorary Member
Prof Mónica Salomón holds a PhD in Political Science from the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona (1998).
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Cristian Cantir (PhD)
Honorary Member
Cristian Cantir is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Oakland University. He holds a Ph.D.
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Noé Cornago (PhD)
Honorary Member
Noé Cornago is an Associate Professor of International Relations at the University of the Basque Country in Bilbao (Spain)
Our Approach
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Us in Numbers
$100M+
Clients’ Income during the Last Quarter
5
Industry Awards
355
Business Partners in over 30 Countries
27
Years of Experience
We’ve Been Covered
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What is the APN?The African Paradiplomacy Network (APN) is an interdisciplinary network dedicated to studying and promoting the internationalization of African subnational governments. We connect researchers, policymakers, and non-state actors to explore this crucial aspect of African development.
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What are subnational governments?Subnational governments are regional or local governments within a country, such as states, provinces, cities, or municipalities. In Africa, these governments are increasingly engaging with international actors on issues like trade, climate change, and sustainable development.
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Why is the internationalization of African subnational governments important?African cities and regions play a vital role in driving economic growth and social development. By engaging internationally, subnational governments can access resources, forge partnerships, and learn from best practices around the world.
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What are the APN's main goals?Raise awareness about African subnational government internationalization strategies. Build capacity for research on African paradiplomacy, encouraging young scholars' interest. Generate data on the partnerships and strategies of African subnational governments.
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Who can benefit from the APN's resources?The APN's resources cater to a wide audience, including: Researchers exploring African paradiplomacy. Policymakers working on international relations and subnational development. Non-state actors like NGOs and businesses engaged in international partnerships. Students and the general public interested in learning more about African cities and regions on the global stage.
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What kind of resources does the APN offer?The APN offers a variety of resources, including: Articles and blog posts on the latest research and trends. Publications and research reports. Case studies on African paradiplomacy. City reports providing insights into the internationalization efforts of specific municipalities. News updates and event information.
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How can I get involved with the APN?There are several ways to get involved with the APN: Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about upcoming events and resources. Attend our conferences, workshops, and webinars. Submit your research for publication on the APN blog or in our journals. Become a member to receive exclusive benefits and contribute to the network's growth.
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Does the APN provide any training or capacity-building programs?The APN may offer or collaborate on training programs or workshops to enhance research skills and knowledge on African paradiplomacy. Check the website for current offerings or future announcements.