The Africa Center, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting a flourishing Africa in connection with its global diaspora, has been awarded a Cultural Development Fund (CDF) grant by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. The Center received more than $100,000 as part of the city’s $74.3 million CDF allocation to 1,171 cultural organizations across all five boroughs. The funding will support The Africa Center’s public programming and exhibitions, strengthening its role as a hub for community engagement and cultural exchange.
Ambassador Martin Kimani, President and CEO of The Africa Center, highlighted that the grant will enhance the institution’s capacity to deliver innovative programs, foster community participation, and provide a welcoming space for celebrating African art, culture, and policy. The support aligns with the Center’s mission of connecting Africa and its diaspora through creative and educational initiatives.
Audrey St. Clair, Assistant Commissioner for Program Services at DCLA, emphasized that the Cultural Development Fund underpins New York City’s vibrant cultural sector by making meaningful, affordable, and accessible programming available citywide. She noted that supporting over 1,000 cultural nonprofits fosters creativity and strengthens community ties across disciplines and geographies.
Deputy Speaker Nantasha Williams, Chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Libraries, and International Relations, stated that the grant reflects the critical role arts and culture play in New York City’s identity and economy. She stressed that public funding helps maintain free or subsidized programming, ensuring equitable access to cultural experiences for all residents while supporting the artists, administrators, and cultural workers who sustain vibrant communities.
The Africa Center, located in New York City, serves as a convening platform for artists, cultural leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. Through its programs, the Center shapes artistic expression, narratives, and partnerships that contribute to the economic and social development of Africa and its diaspora.
