On October 7, 2020, an insightful panel discussion took place on the topic: “Involving the Diaspora in the Creation of New Jobs in Africa – A New ‘Gold Standard’ in Development Cooperation?” This event brought together experts, policymakers, and business leaders to explore the critical role of the African diaspora in driving sustainable economic development and job creation across the continent.
Keynote Greetings and Insights
The session began with welcoming remarks from Günter Nooke, a prominent figure in German-African relations, and Dr. Karamba Diaby, Member of the German Parliament. Their introductions emphasized the growing importance of diaspora engagement as a catalyst for entrepreneurship, investment, and economic growth in Africa.
Expert Panel Discussion
Following the greetings, a dynamic panel discussion featured:
- Fred-Eric Essam, Manager at IBM, who shared insights on leveraging technology and innovation to enhance diaspora-driven business initiatives.
- Lucy Larbi, Chairwoman of Future of Ghana Germany e.V., who discussed programs supporting African entrepreneurs and connecting diaspora investors with local startups.
- Dr. Sylvie Nantcha, Chairwoman of The African Network of Germany e.V., who highlighted the challenges and opportunities in creating sustainable jobs through diaspora networks.
- Wolfram Zunzer, Project Manager at WIDU.africa, who presented how digital platforms can facilitate diaspora investments in micro and small enterprises across Africa.
The discussion addressed the practical strategies for mobilizing diaspora resources, sharing knowledge, and fostering partnerships that directly contribute to job creation and economic development in African countries.
Why Diaspora Engagement Matters
The African diaspora plays a vital role in development cooperation by bringing financial resources, business expertise, and global networks to local communities. Panelists highlighted how diaspora-led initiatives can bridge funding gaps for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and create long-term economic impact.
Event Access and Recording
For those interested in the full session, including all speeches and panel discussions, a YouTube live recording of the event is available. It provides an in-depth look at the insights shared by all participants and offers practical takeaways for policymakers, development actors, and entrepreneurs.
Organizers and Collaboration
The event was organized in cooperation with the office of Dr. Karamba Diaby and the German Africa Foundation, reflecting a strong partnership between government, civil society, and development organizations committed to enhancing diaspora engagement and fostering economic opportunities in Africa.
This panel discussion underscored the importance of diaspora investment and collaboration in creating sustainable employment opportunities in Africa. By combining policy support, technological innovation, and diaspora networks, such initiatives represent an opportunity in development cooperation, paving the way for inclusive growth and economic empowerment across the continent.