MINDS, the Mandela Institute for Development Studies, is an Africa-wide think tank dedicated to promoting dialogue, information dissemination, and networking. With a focus on African heritage, MINDS conducts rigorous research to shape policy and practice on critical issues such as governance, economic development, and the evolution of African institutions. MINDS offers various programmes to address the short, medium, and long-term developmental challenges facing Africa.

These programmes include the African Heritage Programme, the Economic and Regional Integration Programme, the Youth Programme on Elections and Governance, and the Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development. By providing an inclusive platform for debate and collaboration, MINDS aims to enhance policy formulation and implementation in African states, independent from government and political parties. The institute believes that effective and sustainable development can only be achieved by incorporating the cultural heritage, values, and knowledge systems of the African people.

MINDS' vision is for African societies to experience democracy, economic prosperity, social inclusiveness, and global recognition, all grounded in a strong sense of self-awareness. The institute operates on core values of collaboration, dialogue, openness, inclusiveness, and rigor. Through its milestones and partnerships, MINDS is committed to making a real difference in Africa's development challenges by challenging current paradigms and offering new approaches