Overview

Since 2008, the ICD Academy for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) has delivered the “Experience Africa” programme to promote social and economic development across Africa and strengthen ties between cultural groups and states on the continent. At the global level, the programme fosters closer political, economic, and cultural connections between Africa and other regions, highlighting Africa’s growing influence on the international stage.

Africa’s dynamic societies, natural resources and rich cultural heritage create vast potential for economic growth, sustainable development and international engagement. The programme harnesses these opportunities to support education, healthcare, infrastructure and innovative initiatives that drive social progress, strengthen modern economies and advance Africa’s global presence.

Academic Themes

Programme activities explore a range of topics, including the African Union’s role in fostering development and regional peace, the effectiveness of aid and development initiatives, the growth and sustainability of tourism and the use of national branding to attract investment and tourism. The programme also examines microfinance and innovative development initiatives, the contributions of the global African Diaspora to stability and growth, and the significance of USA/EU-Africa relations. Further themes include the role of cultural diplomacy and soft power in African foreign policy, the use of music, art and sport to strengthen intercultural relations and programs that the European Union offers for African integration.

Programme Activities

Since 2012, ICD Academy has offered Master’s degrees in Cultural Diplomacy specifically tailored for African students. These programmes equip emerging African leaders with the academic knowledge, practical skills and global networks necessary to advance social development, economic innovation and international collaboration. By combining rigorous coursework with professional engagement, the Master’s programme complements the broader “Experience Africa” program, ensuring that African professionals are prepared to influence global policy, foster intercultural dialogue and drive sustainable development on the continent.

The programme continues to host international conferences, lectures and panel discussions worldwide. Featuring experts from academia, diplomacy, politics and civil society, these events provide interdisciplinary insights into Africa’s development challenges and opportunities.

ICD conducts and publishes research on the programme’s academic themes, produced by staff, Advisory Board members, international partners, and key stakeholders. This research is presented at events to inform discussion, policy, and practice.

From 2008, the Cultural Diplomacy in Africa: Forum for Young Leaders (CDA) ran for 15 years, bringing together students and young professionals from Africa and beyond for study tours in Berlin, London, NYC and Brussels. Participants explored political, economic and cultural issues affecting Africa while engaging in cultural and social activities that broadened networks and exposed them to the host cities’ cultural life. The Young Leaders Forum concluded after this 15-year run.