April 12th 2024.
According to a recent report by The New York Times, Uzodinma Iweala, who has been at the helm of The Africa Center for the past seven years, will be stepping down as chief executive at the end of 2024. This news comes after Iweala successfully navigated the institution through the challenges of the pandemic and secured significant funding for a major construction project.
Under Iweala's leadership, The Africa Center - formerly known as the Museum for African Art - underwent major changes and expansion of its programming. Despite the obstacles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Iweala's innovative approach broadened the institution's reach with a variety of events, lectures, and collaborations aimed at fostering connections with the African diaspora and reshaping American perceptions of the continent.
Reflecting on his time at The Africa Center, Iweala shared, "I'm really proud of what we've been able to build over the past few years, especially in such a challenging environment. It's the right time for both myself and the institution to move on." During his tenure, Iweala successfully formed partnerships with other cultural institutions and universities, organized groundbreaking exhibitions, and initiated important discussions on Africa's representation in the media. However, the institution also faced ongoing obstacles, such as construction delays.
Despite these challenges, The Africa Center received significant financial support, including $7 million from New York City's cultural affairs department and an additional $6 million from philanthropic organizations. Looking ahead, the institution has already begun the search for Iweala's successor, with a focus on finding a leader who can continue to build on his interdisciplinary vision and strengthen the institution's ties with the Harlem community and beyond.
As Jendayi E. Frazer, co-chair of the Center's board, expressed, "We love Uzo and are sorry to see him go." Frazer emphasized the importance of finding a candidate who can continue to advance The Africa Center's mission and contribute to its ongoing success. The institution's next leader will have big shoes to fill, as Iweala leaves behind a strong legacy of growth and innovation during his time at The Africa Center.
The news of Iweala's departure comes at an exciting time for The Africa Center, as it embarks on the construction of a new building and the expansion of its programming. With a promising future ahead, the institution remains dedicated to its mission of promoting a deeper understanding of African culture and history. As the search for a new chief executive begins, The Africa Center is excited to see what the next chapter holds.
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