The British Institute in Eastern Africa promotes research into the archaeology, history, linguistics, geography and anthropology of eastern Africa, broadly defined. It is based in Nairobi where it maintains a library and research facilities. The Institute undertakes and supports research in countries throughout the region, from Zimbabwe to the Sudan. It is supported by the British Academy, and is governed by a Council, elected by its members, which is based in London.

The Institute publishes the journal Azania, a leading archaeological periodical for the region, and the Journal of Eastern African Studies. Both are produced three times a year in conjunction with Taylor and Francis. The Institute also publishes a twice yearly e-newsletter, offers minor grants and logistical assistance to research projects, and runs a graduate attachee scheme.

Substantial archaeological research projects are normally published as individual volumes in the Institute's Memoir series. The Institute also co-publishes with James Currey Ltd edited and single authored volumes on various historical, geographical and anthropological themes, as part of the latter’s Eastern African Studies series.

Membership is open to all. Members receive either Azania or JEAS, the e-newsletter and the annual report, and may purchase Memoirs and other publications of the Institute at special discount rates. Members also have free access to our library and computing facilities in Nairobi.

To contact us please click here. For further information about the history, staff, facilities and work of the Institute, please explore the links on the left of the page.

Current BIEA news, announcements and updates can be found here.