History

The University of Notre Dame’s work in sub-Saharan Africa began in 2009. Leveraging the Holy Cross Congregation’s work in Uganda, the University developed a connection with Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) and started the University Program For Outreach Research and Development (UPFORD). This flagship program focused on creating and carrying out development initiatives with communities in the surrounding Nnindye community. This was coupled with service-learning opportunities for students, particularly those pursuing an international development minor, and research initiatives for faculty primarily in development economics.

This work was later expanded to Nairobi, where the Holy Cross Congregation has worked with the Archdiocese of Nairobi. The congregation runs an elementary school in the vibrant community of Dandora under the Holy Cross Parish and has several development initiatives to support the community. Initiated by the Human Law and Development program, the congregation’s work in Dandora aims to improve the livelihoods of the residents through entrepreneurship and was developed through community engagement which entailed a listening and learning process with Dandora residents.

In 2016, Notre Dame’s Department of Economics further built upon the University’s presence in sub-Saharan Africa by partnering with Strathmore University Business School. They collaborated to assess how to build the capacity of small-scale entrepreneurs to improve their business profits. This study resulted in publication in journals and led to a policy event that provided recommendations on social protection programs.

This research led to other public health related work that was aimed at increasing access to maternal health services. Dr. Vania Smith Oka of Notre Dame’s Department of Anthropology led studies on women's respectful and dignified care that led to the construction of the Brother Andre Medical Centre, a level-4 hospital that provides high-quality medical services in Nairobi.

In 2021, Notre Dame Global established a regional office to consolidate the partnerships with key universities. A notable event was the Pamoja ND Initiative which brought together representatives from 20 universities, including Strathmore University and Stellenbosch University, to develop partnerships aimed at research and higher education learning activities. The centralization of Notre Dame’s efforts in sub-Saharan Africa has also led to an expansion of student and alumni-based programming, such as hosting iSURE students at Notre Dame to build their capacity in research and establishing a vibrant ND East Africa club that brings together the Notre Dame community.