Exploring Reconciliation and Economic Opportunities: The African Diaspora's Connection with Africa

Earlier this year, Burna Boy responded to blowback from his comment about African and African Americans in the diaspora coming back to Africa made some people feel uncomfortable Burna Boy Clears Up Remarks Regarding Africa And African-Americans – VIBE.com, Burna Boy Speaks Out After Viral Comments On Black Americans Returning To Africa Causes Discourse (yahoo.com). Responding to the pushback, Burna Boy said, "I never said you are African and not Americans." "All I've ever tried to do is make you understand that you have Africa too that loves you, and I believe coming together as brothers and sisters is the only way forward for US black people worldwide. You work against the progress of our people worldwide if your goal is to keep us divided." Please check out his complete statements in the link above before coming to your conclusion.

The claim that "he skipped the whole history of African involvement in the slave trade" and other thoughts, feelings, and the absolute truth needs further conversation. As one person said, "You can't have a conversation with us without addressing that." This is a legitimate feeling and anger. And people have the right to those feelings. There should be a conversation to discuss the role other Africans played in these terrible and horrific events in human history. At the same time, some space must be created for forgiveness and reconciliation. There must be a space for healing and reconciliation between the sons and daughters of the land to their rightful heritage.

Furthermore, there are practical and unique opportunities and benefits for reconciliation. For example, many potential economic benefits can arise from Africans in the diaspora connecting with the continent. The economic benefits of the Africans in the diaspora connecting with Africa are significant and can be measured in several ways. Here are some examples:

Trade: Africans in the diaspora can facilitate trade between their countries of residence and African countries, helping to create new business opportunities and expand markets.

Knowledge transfer: Africans in the diaspora could bring valuable skills, knowledge, and networks back to Africa, which can help to drive economic growth and development and is an option for many Africans in the diaspora. For example, Africans in the diaspora have skills, knowledge, and expertise that can be useful in Africa. Many African diaspora members work in the technology, finance, and healthcare sectors, which are critical for economic growth. They can share their knowledge and experience by connecting with the continent and contributing to developing local industries and businesses. Moreover, suppose others don't recognize and appreciate your skills and talents, in that case, Africa is where you could be valued. The prospect of getting recognized, respected, and paid for your expertise, setting up businesses, and investing must, at the least, be a consideration.

Networking: Africans in the diaspora can help to connect African businesses and entrepreneurs with potential partners and investors in their countries of residence. This can facilitate new business opportunities and promote economic growth.

Investment: African in the diaspora could increase investment in businesses and startups in Africa. According to the African Development Bank, the African diaspora invested $3.3 billion in the continent in 2018. Africans in the diaspora can invest in businesses and projects in Africa, creating jobs and contributing to economic growth. In addition, Africans in the diaspora could have access to capital and expertise to help local entrepreneurs and businesses succeed.

Tourism: African diaspora members also increasingly visit and invest in African tourism. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, African tourism grew by 5.6% in 2019, with many African diaspora members traveling to the continent.

Remittances: Many Africans in the diaspora send money back home to their families and communities in Africa. According to the World Bank, remittances to Sub-Saharan Africa reached $48 billion in 2019, making it the largest remittance-receiving region in the world. These remittances help to support local economies and improve the standard of living for many people.

Overall, the economic benefits of the African diaspora connecting with Africa are significant and can help create new opportunities for growth and development, drive economic growth, create jobs, and reduce poverty on the continent, in America, the Caribbean, and worldwide.

However, this is a difficult conversation that must occur and start somewhere.

Raise the roof!

Authored by Dr. Ayo Olufade, Ph.D.

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