Mission, Vision & Values
What guides Dikan
Our mission sets the direction for our work. Our values guide how we care for knowledge, work with people and share what we learn.
Our mission
To preserve and advance African knowledge and equip people to shape Africa’s future.
Our vision
An Africa where people can draw deeply on its knowledge, contribute ideas of their own and shape the future together.
Our belief
Africa’s future should draw on the depth of its knowledge and the imagination of its people.
Our values
Our values guide how we care for African knowledge, work with people and build Dikan. They shape the decisions we make and the responsibilities we accept.
Humility
We approach learning with openness. We listen carefully, acknowledge what we do not know and recognise expertise in the people and communities around us.
Integrity
We take responsibility for the accuracy of our work. We credit sources, distinguish evidence from interpretation, acknowledge uncertainty and correct mistakes.
Inclusion
We work to make learning welcoming and accessible. We respect different experiences and support people to investigate their histories and contribute in their own voices.
Stewardship
We care for the collections, resources and trust entrusted to Dikan. We preserve context, respect people’s rights and consider what our decisions will mean for future generations.
Courage
We pursue difficult questions and take thoughtful action. We are willing to challenge assumptions, acknowledge uncomfortable histories and learn when an approach falls short.
Imagination
We connect historical knowledge with new possibilities. We encourage experimentation, creative practice and ideas that help people understand the world and shape what comes next.
Collaboration
We build knowledge with others. We share credit, exchange skills and work across communities, generations and disciplines so that people can contribute and learn together.