Africa-US Forum: Engaging the African Diaspora

The recent Africa-US Forum, titled “Africa Engages The Diaspora,” brought together scholars and leaders to discuss the dynamic relationship between Africa and its global diaspora. Organized collaboratively by the African Center for the Study of the United States, the Annenberg Center for Communication Policy at USC, Howard University, George Washington University, and The Public Diplomacy Council of America, the forum aimed to foster scholarly discourse and understanding.

Keynote Remarks:

Mr. Adam Clayton Powell of USC’s Election Cybersecurity Initiative and Bob Wekesa of the African Center for the Study of the United States opened the forum, emphasizing the need for strong ties between Africa and its diaspora. Wekesa highlighted the Africa-US Universities Network’s efforts to address pressing global issues and encouraged investment in Africa’s future.

Panelist Highlights:

Professor Miles Davis, Vice Chancellor of Wigwe University, Nigeria:

• Davis discussed the lasting impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade on the African diaspora, stressing the importance of reconnecting with African roots.
• He highlighted the economic power of the African American community in the U.S., with projections of $1.7 trillion in purchasing power by 2030.
• Davis urged the diaspora to invest in Africa, drawing parallels with the Jewish diaspora’s support for Israel.

Professor Krista Johnson, Howard University:

• Johnson emphasized strengthening multilateral institutions and fostering democratic governance.
• She highlighted the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and the importance of technology transfer.
• Johnson noted the significant role of remittances, surpassing foreign direct investment in sub-Saharan Africa.

Professor Ernest Wilson, Center for Third Space Thinking:

• Wilson highlighted grassroots initiatives, cultural and religious affiliations, and professional organizations as key channels of diasporic engagement.
• He pointed to the historical influence of the African American church and the Congressional Black Caucus in supporting African causes.

Nii Simmonds, Atlantic Council’s GeoTech Center:

• Simmonds discussed the importance of leveraging diaspora networks for national strength and resilience.
• He advocated for creating an African equivalent of the Peace Corps to engage Africa’s youth.
• Simmonds highlighted successful diaspora engagement models from countries like Ireland, Israel, and India.

Dr. Asad el Malik, African Center for the Study of the United States:

• El Malik focused on African Americans returning to Africa, a phenomenon dubbed “Blaxit.”
• He discussed the motivations and challenges faced by returnees and their integration into local communities.
• El Malik stressed the importance of documenting this movement and fostering mutual benefits between the diaspora and Africa.

Discussion and Remarks:

The panelists and audience engaged in a multifaceted discussion on the complexities of diaspora engagement. Key themes included the need for resilience, sustained commitment, and strategic initiatives to foster development. The forum underscored the importance of bridging gaps between African and diasporic communities to create a more competitive and equitable Africa.

This comprehensive approach aims to harness the potential of the African diaspora, fostering solidarity, investment, and collaboration for Africa’s growth and prosperity.