Reclaiming sovereign policy space through pluralist economics

AHEN is a pan-African and diaspora-inclusive academic network that generates Africa-centred heterodox economic research, transforms how economics is taught in African universities, and brings pluralist analysis to bear on policy and public debate.

8+Regional hubs
1,000+Network members
4Strategic pillars
2025Founded

Africa faces a compounding macro-financial trap — not a failure of resources but a failure of the analytical frameworks that govern their management. AHEN exists to replace those frameworks.

AHEN Concept Note, June 2026

What we do

Four interconnected programmes working toward African economic sovereignty

Research excellence

  • Competitive research grants for Africa and diaspora teams
  • AHEN Working Paper Series
  • Three specialist research streams
  • Methods clinics and early-career fellowships

Community and network

  • Eight regional and diaspora hubs
  • Annual flagship conference
  • 150-pairing mentorship programme
  • Digital collaboration platform

Teaching and curriculum

  • Pluralist modules for African universities
  • Open Education Resource platform
  • Accredited teaching certification
  • Educator training in French, Portuguese, English

Policy and engagement

  • Policy briefs and public lectures
  • Multi-stakeholder policy labs
  • Rapid-response technical advisory team
  • Financial blueprints for African sovereigns

Working Paper No. 001

Domestic Resource Creation as an Alternative to Domestic Resource Mobilisation: Theoretical Foundations and Policy Implications — Redge Nkosi, 2026

Policy Brief No. 001

Breaking the Macro-Financial Trap: A Heterodox Framework for African Sovereign Debt Management — AHEN Research Team, 2026

AHEN is in its founding phase (2026–2028). The first research grant cycle opens in late 2026. Register your interest to receive updates.