Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA) deliberates on socio-economic issues that have both a local impact and a global resonance. The Institute is founded by a group of researchers, academics, policy-makers and former governance practitioners. The think tank forges partnerships for intellectual exploration that both bolster a fledgling democracy and push the boundaries of limited expectation of our fractured history.
MISTRA is broadly informed by the ideals of their Constitution, which is to:
- Develop and advance South Africa’s paradigm of thinking and reservoir of knowledge in a wide variety of disciplines.
- Advance the all-round development of South African society for the attainment of an improved quality of life.
- Deepen South African democracy.
- Promote African development and democracy.
- Advance South Africa’s global interests in pursuit of peace and equitable development.
- Contribute to the mobilisation of society around a common vision.
MISTRA carries out research that addresses the country’s complex challenges, straddling issues of nation-formation, economic growth, social equity and South Africa’s global positioning. The research is conducted through a process of engagement and facilitation, drawing on the wide range of available expertise in the country and globally.
The Institute’s expertise and value-add encourages many in the public and private sectors to commission the Institute to undertake consultancy work on a range of issues of concern to policy-makers. Consultancy work includes requests from a range of government departments at national, provincial and local levels, private sector corporations and from universities and other research institutes.
MISTRA is a not-for-profit organisation and independent think tank which receives funding by various corporate donors, local foundations and trusts, international sources, individuals and partner organisations. A complete list of all donor contributions since MISTRA’s inception can be viewed in their annual reports and on their website. Find out more.
