Africa-Diaspora Trade Initiative Launched at Global Summit

The Global Africa Summit, focused on fostering trade, investment, and partnerships between Africa and its diaspora, has been launched in Accra. The summit is scheduled for December and aims to connect investors, professionals, and business leaders from across the continent and the diaspora with economic opportunities in Ghana and Africa.

The event’s organizers emphasized the significance of Ghana as the starting point for the summit series and highlighted the potential for investment, partnership, and tourism.

Summit Objectives and Participation

The two-day program will concentrate on trade and investment, with participation expected from private sector leaders, government officials, academics, and global entrepreneurs. International partners, including the National Black Chamber and members of the Africa Investment Network, are supporting the initiative. Organizers noted that the summit aims to showcase Ghanaian culture and provide a “Black Star experience” for diaspora members who may not have previously visited Africa.

Diaspora Engagement and Economic Contribution

Mr. Kofi Okyere Darko, Director of the Diaspora Affairs, Office of the President, highlighted the substantial impact of diaspora remittances, which have reached 6.4 billion US dollars. He emphasized the importance of engaging Ghanaians and Africans abroad, extending beyond remittances to encourage professionals like doctors, teachers, and business owners to contribute to their communities. The office, established by President Mahama, prioritizes diaspora engagement.

National Development and Tourism Initiatives

The launch of the Black Star Experience initiative aims to position Ghana as a year-round destination, encouraging diaspora members to contribute to national development beyond leisure travel. Officials expressed a desire to move beyond solely recreational visits and promote investment and partnership opportunities.

Building Economic Bridges

Mrs. Yvonne Ocloo, CEO of TopDog Africa and a partner of the Global Africa Summit, stated the goal is to build economic bridges and partnerships that create jobs and stimulate economic growth. The summit series will include events in Washington DC (October) and Toronto, Canada, before concluding in Ghana in December. The hope is that Ghana’s central role will encourage increased diaspora participation in investment and partnership activities.