African organizations encompass intergovernmental bodies like the African Union (AU), which promotes regional cooperation and development, and a vast array of regional economic communities such as the ECOWAS and SADC. The continent also hosts numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs), research institutions like CODESRIA, and specialized agencies focused on sectors from human rights to standardization. These entities collectively address challenges, drive economic growth, foster peace and security, and advocate for the continent's interests in the global arena. 

Key Types of African Organizations

• Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs)
• African Union (AU): The main pan-African body, succeeding the OAU, with the vision of an "Integrated, Prosperous and Peaceful Africa". It fosters cooperation, peace, and economic integration among its 55 member states. 
• Regional Economic Communities (RECs): Groups of countries that collaborate on economic integration, such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). 
• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
• Civil Society Organizations: A diverse range of local and international NGOs work on various issues, including development, human rights, and public awareness. 
• African Diaspora Organizations: Think tanks like the African Diaspora Policy Centre (ADPC) work on migration and development, and others aim to bridge gaps between the diaspora and the continent. 
• Research & Academia
• Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA): An independent pan-African organization focused on social science research. 
• University Centers: Institutions like the University of Pennsylvania's Africana Librarians Council and the University at Buffalo's research guides support African studies and resource sharing. 
• Specialized Bodies
• African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO): Works to harmonize standards across the continent. 
• African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC): An organ responsible for conflict prevention, management, and resolution. 

Goals and Functions

African organizations serve a multitude of purposes, including:

• Promoting Peace and Security: Through bodies like the AU PSC and regional security frameworks. 
• Driving Economic Development: By facilitating cooperation and integration within regional communities. 
• Fostering Unity and Solidarity: Creating a sense of shared identity and purpose across the continent. 
• Advocating for Africa's Interests: Representing the continent on the global stage and in international forums. 
• Addressing Social and Political Challenges: Tackling issues like poverty, human rights, and the impacts of climate change.