The clientele of UNAFRI are basically and largely African Governments, particularly the personnel working in the areas of crime and elinquency prevention and control, offenders' correction, and policy makers and top administrators in the field of criminal justice administration.

In most African countries, the personnel concerned are within Ministries of Justice, Interior, Social Welfare and Planning. At the same time, UNAFRI promotes cooperation with inter-governmental and non-governmental organizations, scientific and professional organizations, and individuals, in recognition of their contribution and support.