The Association for African Studies in Germany (Vereinigung für Afrikawissenschaften in Deutschland- VAD.e.V.) is a union of scholars from various disciplines within African Studies. Formed in 1969, the VAD promotes the collaboration and exchange of ideas among academics and professionals working in German speaking regions. The Association supports Africa-centered research and teaching in universities and other institutions. It supports international and interdisciplinary dialogue and encourages the expansion of adequate research infrastructures.

The association organizes biennial conferences in Germany , inviting scholars from around the world who are studying the continent of Africa. During these events, exceptional dissertations and masters’ theses are awarded the junior researchers’ prize. The VAD, in collaboration with the GIGA (German Institute for Global and Area Studies, Hamburg) publishes the scientific Journal “Africa Spectrum”.

The last conference under the title “Africa-Europe: Reciprocal Perspectives” took place from 7-10 June 2022 in Freiburg im Breisgau. It was organised by the newly founded Africa Centre for Transregional Research (ACT) at the Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg.


The Institute for African Studies (IAS) at the University of Bayreuth is organising the next conference under the title “Reconfigurations in Africa – and in African Studies”. It will take place from 30 September to 2 October 2024 at the University of Bayreuth. More information will be available soon on these pages.