Our Programs

High-impact initiatives connecting policy, commerce, research, and community between Minnesota and the Horn of Africa.

MNIHAS Events & Conference

High-profile convenings focused on the Horn of Africa and its diaspora, streamed across media and featuring leaders from government, academia, and civil society.

Minnesota Institute of Horn of Africa Studies hosts high profile events focused the Horn of Africa region and Horn of Africa diaspora communities. We conducted high level meetings and events that were streamed across media platforms. The speakers include an impressive array of policymakers and instrumental figures from both the US and the Horn of Africa region, including think tank leaders, community leaders, government officers, educators, and political analysts.

These are individuals who have enormous influence on the socio-cultural landscape of the US and understand the important connections to the Horn of Africa region. MNIHAS’ events allow these world-renowned experts to share their knowledge and insights with the people of Minnesota.

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Minn Horn Global Relations

Building durable relationships between Minnesota and Horn of Africa countries through exchanges, education, dialogues, and investment-oriented partnerships.

Minnesota Institute of Horn of Africa Studies is focused on building a relationship between the State of Minnesota and the Horn of Africa countries. These relationships are an essential step towards fostering cultural, economic, and diplomatic ties between the two regions.

MNIHAS will facilitate and initiate cultural exchanges, education programs, political dialogues, and invite renowned speakers on the Horn of Africa. Such programs and speakers will be drawn from the areas of art, politics, economics, education, and social development.

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Young Professionals Civics Education

Culturally-relevant civic education that grows knowledge, participation, understanding, and community engagement.

Build Civic Knowledge

  • Comprehensive understanding of the U.S. political system (federal, state, local).
  • Roles and responsibilities of different branches of government.

Encourage Civic Participation

  • Foster civic responsibility and engagement among East African young adults.
  • Highlight voting and participation in community and civic activities.

Promote Cultural Understanding

  • Integrate cultural sensitivity so concepts are relatable and accessible.
  • Create dialogue on the intersection of East African cultures and American civic life.

Community Engagement

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Research & Analysis

Community-informed, culturally sensitive research to guide policy and investment across sectors.

Define Research Objectives

Understand socio-economic status, integration challenges, and cultural preservation efforts.

Community Engagement

Partner with local East African organizations, leaders, activists, and community members to build trust and ensure relevance.

Data Collection Methods

Use qualitative and quantitative approaches: interviews, focus groups, observation, ethnography, surveys, and census data.

Data Analysis

Analyze findings with appropriate techniques and interpret within relevant theory and literature.

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Minnesota Institute of Horn of Africa Studies (MNIHAS)

Connecting Communities, Creating Opportunities