About us
MEARI is dedicated to exploring the complex and evolving dynamics between the Middle East and Africa.
MEARI focuses its pursuit of knowledge at the intersection of the forces of geography, history, politics, security, economics and culture that are driving change in relationships on the Middle East-Africa nexus.
Events in Africa and the Middle East often affect the entire globe. Whether it’s the issues of mineral resources, environmental degradation, demography, terrorism, governance, food production or water their geo politics has resonance well beyond their borders.
Yet research investigating relations between these two regions is very limited. MEARI works to fill this gap enhancing understanding and shaping dialogue enabling decisions for a better future.
The Team
Benji Shulman | Executive Director
Benji Shulman is the Executive Director of The Middle East Africa Research Institute, bringing nearly two decades of experience in Middle East/Africa related involvement. He holds an undergraduate degree in Commerce and Masters in Geography both from the University of Witwatersrand (WITS) and regularly engages with ambassadors, civil society, religious leaders, policy experts, and the media from both regions.
Benji has been interviewed and written diverse media outlets including the BBC, Fox News, SABC, Al Jazeera, Jerusalem Post, Times of Israel, The Daily Maverick, Washington Times, World Policy Journal, Deutsche Welle and Africa in Fact.