Economy
THE number of Africans living outside their country of origin has increased from an estimated 15 million in 1990 to 28 million in 2020. Adding their descendants who identify and maintain strong ties with their mother countries, the global African Diaspora is growing in size and importance.
Diasporas play a central role in linking their two countries, including integrating new waves of immigrants, acting as drivers for knowledge and commercial exchanges, and investing and creating opportunities in both their countries. Beyond their economic impact, diasporas are a very important source of knowledge and skills for their new communities, and they are often conduits for intellectual capital investments back in their countries of origin. Such connections make diasporas a key player and partner for achieving sustainable development in their new and former neighbourhoods, regions, and nations.
On the occasion of Africa Day, this joint event by the OECD Development Centre, Minnesota Africans United, MAU, and the World’s Fair Fund brings together speakers from the African diasporic and business communities, public service leaders, migration experts, and representatives of the African diplomatic corps in Paris. Participants will share success stories, reflect on the diaspora’s positive impact in home countries, and explore how trade and investment can mutually benefit communities on the African continent and in diasporas.
Session 1 will discuss how the private sector can link diasporas with business opportunities in Africa. And session 2 will focus on the role of African governments in enabling investment from the diaspora.
To attend, please contact Bochra.Kriout@oecd.org (Tel: + 33 145 24 82 96) at the OECD Development Centre’s Press Office. Or register to follow the online event via Zoom using this link.
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Tags: Media advisory African Diaspora
