Centre set up in 1996 by the Uganda Martyrs University (see separate entry) to promote and facilitate research on Africa. The centre emphasises the importance of preserving and promoting African culture as one means to sustainable development. In particular, it aims to tap the experience and knowledge contained in African oral traditions, in order to inform scientific work. Specific activities include:
- collating and preserving materials and data about African cultures in their historical and contemporary forms using modern technology
- researching and identifying values found in African traditional practices, customs and rituals
- providing researchers with information, knowledge, technical assistance and facilities
- using knowledge and information to promote sustainable development, especially in the field of education.
The ARDC publishes a series of monographs entitled Mtafiti Mwarika (African Researcher) which are available online via the European ESAP project (see separate entry).
The website includes details of the centre’s staff and links to the ESAP publications.