After COVID-19 outbreak, the African Union in collaboration with UNDP and AfriLabs worked together to implement the first African business simulation that seeks to help Micro/Small/Medium Enterprises MSMEs to overcome the current COVID-19 challenges and the lockdown. More than 400 participants and 10 different partners have been involved in building and participating in the simulation in 2020 from 5 different countries: Cameroon, Egypt, Sudan Senegal, and Zimbabwe.
AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
HANDBOOK
Living Our Values. Building Our Future. Empowering Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem.
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
CONTENT
INTRODUCTION
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WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN AFRILABBER?
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OUR CULTURE STATEMENT
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SECTION 2 – OUR CORE VALUES, BEHAVIOURS & KPI INDICATORS
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UBUNTU — WE ARE BECAUSE YOU ARE
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EXCELLENCE — DELIVERING OUR BEST, ALWAYS
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INNOVATION — THINKING AHEAD, CREATING
SOLUTIONS
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RESPECT — VALUING PEOPLE, EMBRACING DIVERSITY 12
INTEGRITY — DOING THE RIGHT THING, ALWAYS
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RESILIENCE — ADAPTING, GROWING, THRIVING
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SECTION 3 — THE AFRILABS CULTURE PLEDGE
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SECTION 4 — CULTURE CHAMPIONS PROGRAM
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SECTION 5 — RECOGNITION & REWARD SYSTEM
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SECTION 6 — HANDLING NON-ADHERENCE TO CORE VALUES (ABRIDGED) SECTION 7 — OUR COMMITMENT GOING FORWARD
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Anna Ekeledo, Executive Director, AfriLabs
Dear AfriLabbers,
Today marks a significant moment in our journey as a pan-African institution. Over the years, AfriLabs has grown from a small network of visionaries into a leading force shaping Africa’s innovation landscape. As we expand our impact, one truth becomes increasingly clear: our internal culture must be as strong, resilient, and future-focused as the ecosystem we serve.
This Culture Handbook reflects the voices of our people; your insights, experiences, and aspirations. Through staff surveys, leadership interviews, collaborative working sessions, and months of reflection, you have helped us define who we are, how we work, and what we want the AfriLabs experience to represent across the continent.
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
Our culture is rooted in Ubuntu, Excellence, Innovation, Respect, Integrity, and Resilience , the values that guide how we collaborate, communicate, solve problems, and show up for one another. These are not just ideals; they represent the behaviors and standards that will carry AfriLabs into its next phase of growth. This handbook is your guide. It offers clarity, direction, and shared expectations. It empowers you to embody the AfriLabs identity confidently and consistently, no matter your department, country, or role. As leaders, we commit to modelling these values openly and consistently. And as a community, we will uphold a culture that drives high performance, collaboration, inclusion, and impact. Together, we are building a workplace we can all be proud of — a space where innovation thrives, people grow, and our collective work shapes Africa’s future.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Warm regards, Anna Ekeledo Executive Director, AfriLabs
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
INTRODUCTION
At AfriLabs, our culture is the heart of how we work, collaborate, and create impact across Africa.
This handbook provides clarity on our shared identity, expectations, values, behaviors, and the systems we use to recognize and reinforce a strong culture.
This is our collective blueprint, built by us, for us.
HANDBOOK
Living Our Values. Building Our Future. Empowering Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem.
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN AFRILABBER? Who is an AfriLabber? An AfriLabber is a visionary changemaker; resilient, collaborative, and impact driven. AfriLabbers embrace innovation, inclusivity, and excellence to shape Africa’s future through bold ideas and transformative action. Working with purpose, professionalism, and empathy ▪ Demonstrating transparency, integrity, and accountability ▪ Embracing cross-cultural collaboration across Africa ▪ Leading with creativity, initiative, and problem- solving ▪ Practicing inclusivity and building strong relationships ▪ Representing AfriLabs with dignity and excellence ▪ Staying resilient through evolving needs and challenges The AfriLabber Identity Being an AfriLabber means: ▪
This identity unites us in our mission and aligns us in how we show up for the ecosystem.
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
OUR CULTURE STATEMENT AfriLabs fosters collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, uniting Africa’s innovation ecosystem to drive impact, champion transparency, and turn challenges into opportunities. Rooted in excellence, adaptability, and resilience, we empower changemakers and position Africa at the forefront of global innovation.
SECTION 2 – OUR CORE VALUES, BEHAVIOURS & KPI INDICATORS
Each value includes: ▪
Clear definition
▪
Behavioral expectations
▪ Examples of what “good” looks like in practice. ▪ KPI indicators for self-assessment and performance alignment
This ensures clarity, consistency, and shared accountability across all teams.
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
RESILIENCE Adapting, growing, and thriving
UBUNTU
We are because you are
▪ Support & uplift one another ▪ Celebrate collective wins ▪ Grow through shared kno
▪ Stay focused & composed under pressure ▪ Respond to challenges with optimism ▪ Turn obstacles into opportunities
INTEGRITY Doing the right thing, always ▪ Act with honesty & transparency
EXCELLENCE
Delivering our best, always
CORE VALUES
▪ Commit to quality & reliability ▪ Take ownership & accountability ▪ Improve continuously in all we do
▪ Uphold ethical principles ▪ Communicate clearly & responsibly
RESPECT
INNOVATION Thinking ahead, creating solutions ▪ Challenge the status quo ▪ Stay agile & forward-thinking ▪ Create bold solutions that drive impact
Valuing people, embracing diversity
▪ Treat everyone with dignity & fairness ▪ Build an inclusive, supportive environment ▪ Foster trust, belonging & collaboration
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
UBUNTU — WE ARE BECAUSE YOU ARE
Definition We thrive on a culture of community, shared success, and collective growth. By fostering collaboration and uplifting one another, we harness our collective strength to drive Africa’s innovation ecosystem forward.
Behavioral Indicators ▪
Demonstrates openness, teamwork, and collaboration
▪ Shares information and supports colleagues proactively ▪ Builds trust through empathy and inclusion ▪ Encourages collective problem-solving ▪ Celebrates team wins and cross-departmental success
Examples of Good Behavior ▪
Offering help before being asked
▪ Sharing knowledge or resources that benefit the team ▪ Ensuring quieter voices are included in discussions KPI Indicators (1–5) 1 – Rarely collaborates 3 – Works well with others 5 – Actively builds community and fosters team cohesion
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
EXCELLENCE — DELIVERING OUR BEST, ALWAYS
Definition We commit to the highest standards of quality, reliability, and impact. Through professionalism, accountability, and continuous improvement, we ensure everything we do reflects our dedication to outstanding performance. Produces high-quality work outputs consistently ▪ Communicates professionally and clearly ▪ Meets commitments and deadlines ▪ Demonstrates reliability and attention to detail ▪ Seeks improvement and takes ownership Examples of What Good Looks Like ▪ Reviewing work thoroughly before submission ▪ Taking responsibility without excuses ▪ Maintaining high standards despite challenges KPI Indicators (1–5) 1 – Frequently below expectations 3 – Meets standards consistently 5 – Demonstrates outstanding quality and reliability Behavioral Indicators ▪
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
INNOVATION — THINKING AHEAD, CREATING SOLUTIONS
Definition We challenge the status quo, embrace creativity, and pioneer bold ideas. We create solutions that strengthen Africa’s innovation landscape by staying agile and forward-thinking,
Behavioral Indicators ▪
Suggests new ideas and alternative approaches ▪ Improves processes and workflows ▪ Adapts quickly to new tools and gaps ▪ Thinks proactively, anticipating needs ▪ Experiments, iterates, and learns Recommending a new system that reduces operational delays ▪ Designing a creative solution to an unforeseen problem KPI Indicators (1–5) 1 – Resistant to change 3 – Adaptable and open 5 – Highly innovative, solution-focused, and proactive Examples of Good Behavior ▪
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
RESPECT — VALUING PEOPLE, EMBRACING DIVERSITY
Definition We cultivate an inclusive and supportive environment where every AfriLabber feels seen and heard. By treating others with dignity, fairness, and professionalism, we foster trust, belonging, and collaboration. Communicates respectfully and listens with intent ▪ Demonstrates cultural awareness and sensitivity ▪ Always uses professional language ▪ Gives constructive feedback responsibly ▪ Demonstrates emotional intelligence Taking time to understand perspectives before responding ▪ Managing disagreements without hostility ▪ Giving feedback using empathetic language KPI Indicators (1–5) 1 – Frequently disrespectful or dismissive 3 – Generally respectful and courteous 5 – Actively models respect and psychological safety Behavioral Indicators ▪ Examples of Good Behavior ▪
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
INTEGRITY — DOING THE RIGHT THING, ALWAYS
Definition We act with honesty, transparency, and ethical responsibility. By upholding moral principles and communicating truthfully, we build lasting trust with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders.
Behavioral Indicators ▪
Communicates truthfully even in difficulty ▪ Maintains confidentiality and ethical standards ▪ Keeps promises and commitments ▪ Addresses conflicts honestly and fairly ▪ Makes transparent, principled decisions
Examples of Good Behavior ▪
Owning mistakes early and openly Declaring competing interests Being transparent about delays
▪ ▪
KPI Indicators (1–5) 1 – Dishonest or unreliable 3 – Generally truthful and reliable 5 – Highly principled, trustworthy, and consistent
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
RESILIENCE — ADAPTING, GROWING, THRIVING
Definition We navigate challenges with agility and optimism. By maintaining focus, composure, and creativity under pressure, we turn obstacles into opportunities and drive sustainable success.
Behavioral Indicators ▪
Remains calm during pressure Adjusts plans proactively
▪
▪ Learns from setbacks and applies lessons ▪ Maintains productivity during challenges ▪ Demonstrates mental and emotional agility Examples of Good Behavior ▪ Responding to sudden changes with solutions ▪ Taking feedback as guidance, not criticism
KPI Indicators (1–5) 1 – Easily overwhelmed 3 – Handles challenges adequately 5 – Highly adaptable, steady, and positive
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
SECTION 3 — THE AFRILABS CULTURE PLEDGE
With a shared belief in purpose, people, and progress, I commit to living the AfriLabs Culture every day.
I pledge to: ▪
Work with Ubuntu , supporting and uplifting my colleagues. ▪ Show Respect , valuing people and perspectives. ▪ Pursue Excellence , taking pride in the quality of my work. ▪ Embrace Innovation , thinking ahead and acting boldly. ▪ Demonstrate Resilience , staying solutions-focused through challenges. ▪ Uphold Integrity , doing the right thing, always. I take responsibility for my actions, celebrate achievements, learn from feedback, and contribute to a culture of high performance, growth, and shared success.
Together, we embody the AfriLabs way.
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
SECTION 4 — CULTURE CHAMPIONS PROGRAM Purpose To embed AfriLabs’ values across departments by leveraging peer role models who promote alignment, communication, and engagement.
Selection Criteria ▪
Demonstrates AfriLabs values consistently ▪ Strong interpersonal and communication skills ▪ Trusted by peers ▪ Positive influence and collaborative mindset ▪ Open to serving a 6-month rotation
Core Responsibilities ▪
Reinforce values in daily interactions
▪ Support culture onboarding for new staff ▪ Facilitate team reflections on values ▪ Encourage participation in culture initiatives ▪ Share insights and emerging issues with PM & Committee ▪ Promote psychological safety and constructive communication
Support Provided ▪
Clear guidelines and templates
▪ Quarterly check-ins with PM & Culture Committee ▪ Safe support channel for confidential issues ▪ Recognition for active contributions
Deliverables ▪
Monthly observation updates Participation in culture events
▪
▪ Champion transition notes at end of rotation
[Link to full document]
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
SECTION 5 — RECOGNITION & REWARD SYSTEM
AfriLabs celebrates behaviors that demonstrate alignment with our values.
Recognition Components ▪
Value Badges (per core value) Monthly Culture Spotlight Leaderboard for participation
▪ ▪ ▪
Quarterly “Culture Champion Award”
▪ Spot recognitions during all-staff meetings
Recognition Focus Areas ▪
Exemplary display of core values Collaboration and team contribution
▪ ▪ ▪ ▪
Innovation and initiative
Professionalism and excellence
Supportiveness and positive influence
Recognition helps reinforce the culture we want to see consistently across the organization.
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
SECTION 6 — HANDLING NON- ADHERENCE TO CORE VALUES
Culture accountability is part of our shared responsibility.
Approach to non-adherence ▪
Constructive, early feedback
▪ Non-punitive coaching by line manager or PM ▪ Documented follow-up where needed ▪ Escalation only if patterns persist ▪ Severe issues follow AfriLabs’ HR disciplinary policy Full Policy Access A detailed version of the Values Accountability Framework will be accessible via:
[Link to full document]
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AFRILABS CULTURE BOOKLET
SECTION 7 — OUR COMMITMENT GOING FORWARD
AfriLabs leadership and staff commit to:
▪ Embedding values into onboarding & performance ▪ Providing tools and resources for culture adoption ▪ Celebrating behaviors that reflect our identity ▪ Supporting Culture Champions ▪ Upholding professionalism, integrity, and collaboration ▪ Strengthening team cohesion and communication ▪ Making culture a daily practice, not a one-time activity Together, we build a purpose-driven, collaborative, resilient AfriLabs — one value, one behavior, and one moment at a time.
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