The mission assigned to the Africa Department is to create conditions conducive to ensuring that the special priority given to Africa by the governing bodies is translated into reality. The Africa Department (AFR) is responsible for ensuring that Africa-oriented activities are effectively treated as a priority at all stages of programme elaboration and implementation, for subsequent monitoring and coordination, for mobilization of resources and promotional activities concerning Africa, as well as for the substantive relations with African Member States. (DG/Note/00/15 du 3 juillet 2000).

As a coordinating unit, its main purpose is to give impetus to UNESCO’s action in Africa so as to reflect in all its programmes the priority that is specially accorded to the Africa region and ensure that these programmes are adapted to the needs and aspirations of African Member States. The Department will also promote the continent’s participation in the globalization process and strengthen regional and subregional cooperation.
In this regard, the Africa Department is responsible for:

- Ensuring that Africa-oriented activities are effectively treated as a priority
- Following-up the coordination of the programmes in favour of Africa
- Promoting activities in favour of Africa and mobilizing resources