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Harnessing the Power of
Continental Africa Diaspora
Saturday February 22, 2014: 7:00pm to 11pm
Dine and Wine with the Lyta Boys Performance
Venue: Nyumburu Cultural Center, University of Maryland
By Organizational and Patron Sponsorship
Catered Buffet Dinner: Only $10.00
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Dear Continental African Leaders, Group Representatives and Supporters of African Self-Empowerment.
The Legacy Kick-Off
Y
ou
are invited to the unprecedented initiative to define the and shape developments that affect the quality of life of Continental Africa Diasporans and their vital contributions toward the development of Africa through hometown, alumni associations, African organizations, and professional expertise.
The African Union, World Bank and other global, external institutions recognize the power of Continental Africa Diaspora. The polices and legacy projects, which the African Union created with foreign partners are hardly known in the Continental African community. However, the the legacy projects are mostly based on the laudable contributions and commitment of the transnational Continental Africa Diaspora community that maintains unbroken ties in Africa.
Your leadership presence and participations will help to redress: 1) the exclusion of Continental Africa Diaspora in the decision-making process; 2) harness the unique power of Continental Africa Diaspora in order to shape and implement self-reliant solutions; 3) create mutual partnerships to facilitate working relationship with the African Union and respective African nations, and also with global institutions on African development and advocacy.
| Improved macroeconomic policies across Africa |
Home-town, cultural, alumni associations, indigenous African organizations and professional experts and networks are contributing to improve growth and opportunities in Africa.
The contributions and priority on African expertise (brain gain and circulation) over foreign dependencies are not yet reflected in policies and the decision-making process by African Union governments and global institutions. Information on Continental Africa Diaspora contributions is also vital UN Millennium Goals.
The agenda on February 22, 2014 will showcase the unique role of Continental Africa Diaspora through:
1) Model programs undertaken by indigenous organizations, which include
education, health, youth, women/Girl Child, and macroeconomic projects.
2) Exemplary brain gain and circulation by inclusive African organizations.
3) Working Dual Citizenship for Self-Reliant Africa.
4) The Transnational Continental African Identity in the Diaspora and its global, cultural influence.
5) The Banking Remittance Question: How to Proceed with Continental Africa Diaspora's Monies.
The model programs and African solutions are prototypes that will be presented to the African Union in initiating working partnerships.
| In Conversation With Richard Cambridge, Head of Diaspora Relations, Africa Region | The World Bank |
While the theoretical concept of Africa Diaspora includes all black people living outside Africa, it has proved to be an impractical definition for stakeholder development and from realistic perspectives.
The African Union approach is now specific with a focus on its emigre community, which clarifies obvious confusionBut this does not undermine the interests and support of African American leadership organizations or generic black groups without immigrant ties. The Partnerships are complementary in economic exchange and advocacy directed at the US Congress, the World Bank and other global institutions.
African Regional groups are also reaching out. For example, the ECOWAS Region held its 2nd Annual ECOWAS Diaspora Forum in October 2013 with ECOWAS Ambassadors in the US and the ECOWAS Commissioner, Mr. Kadre Desire Ouedraogo (from Benin). The event took place at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, DC.
This eNewsletter gives you ample information to help in understanding the perspectives.
Through the features highlighted, including video clips, we explore various themes.
There are also fun elements like the Palace of the Lost City in Sun City, Africa has Musical Genes, etc. Yes, you will have the essence of the Tribute to Madiba. And don't you love the civic courage of the Africans in Israel?
Finally, we are happy to note that the Continental African community is coming together as a population to be reckoned with.
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Tap the African Community Bootstrap
The phrase "Pull by the Bootstrap" describes self-determining efforts. The Continental African population in the US constitutes a new and emerging American community that is hardly funded compared to the assistance received by other transnational, immigrant communities like the Hispanic, Asians and Jews.
| African Institute for Remittances |
In February 2014, the African Union voted to launch the AIR in 2015 to be hosted in Kenya.
The Question on the Agenda:
How is AIR manage? Can Continental Africa Diaspora Africa Manage Remittances and how can the African Union facilitate without dependencies on external institutions?
The transnational population with unbroken ties to the Continent contributes an estimated $120 billion in annual resources in Africa, which surpasses foreign aid.
The $53 -60 billion in remittances through known entities like Money Gram, Western Union, which the World Bank uses in its reporting is only half the story, which researchers admit. In July 2013, the Chairperson of the African Union indicated that 17% of foreign project investments come from Africans to Africa....surprise, surprise! Recently, the African Diaspora Bond for Africa's development is being explored with case studies.
The direct remittances sustain families and redress poverty. What have not been researched and sensitized are project-based contributions undertaken by home-based cultural organizations, alumni and student associations that range from education, including scholarships; social infrastructure developments such as clean water; health facilities to micro enterprises.
| What Africa must do to claim the 21st Century Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigerian Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economic Development, Former Managing Director, World Bank. |
She is a pioneer! Here she talks about the other Africa, the one neglected by the global media.
| Want to help Africa? Do business here - Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala |
Last year, the accomplished Africanist concluded that Rebuilding Africa cannot be dependent on donors: Read.
We hope we have given you enough information in this Edition of The VIGOR eNewletter on the Whys and Whats. We trust you, the organizations and leaders, can provide the empowering Hows for the African Renaissance.
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The Vibrancy of the Community
Continental Africans constitute the most educated American population based on US Census. Even though local public jurisdictions are yet to level the playing field with equitable resources, the cultural assets and resilience explain the brilliance of social cohesion and networks in the Continental African community. You have to be a participant observer to get it! Social Service people call it "hard to reach." But it is within reach by population.
Mutual aid associations serve as safety nets and social spring. Most are hometown, alumni and students associations. Recently, the Southern African community championed a new pattern in regional formations. Hey, let's have some fun with the Southern African Community inside the Beltway in Washington Metro Area.....say hello:
| Southern African Community U.S.A. |
The most common groups are memberships entities. The mistake often made by public officials is that a national group covers everyone. They represents various segments of a national population.
Below is Tamrat Medhin of Little Ethiopia. Tamrat won the PanAfricanist Award bestowed by the DC Mayor's Office on African Affairs in 2013.
| Tamrat, introduced by Ms Evelyn Joe, known as "MsJoe" at the Mandela-King Banquet on Oct. 11, 2013.
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From grade schools to colleges, African immigrant students and students whose parents or family trace the origin to migration from Africa are proudly upholding the culture and unbroken connection to Africa. They are members of African Students Associations or Clubs. Let us use these examples:
University of West Virginia: Visit with African Student Association in UWV: Enter
University of Maryland, College Park: Enter
With the growing population, community-based organizations are addressing quality of life necessities such as health and social services, economic and civic developments that cannot be feasibly done by national, cultural, alumni or student groups. Community-based organizations are new and few. It takes daily operational expenses needed to execute a community-based program. Let's learn from the African Immigrant and Refugee Foundation.
| Local Students Attend African Immigrant and Refugee Conference |
We hope you had some fun and proud moments with samples of organizations that shape the dynamics and social networks in the Continental African community. |
Yes, the Better Africa that the Media Don't Tell.
Just like beauty queens winners are not necessarily the most beautiful, Africa has lots of cities that can make the tops and people are arguing about the finest....that were not mentioned.
Africa can compete.....Palace of the Lost City in Sun City, South Africa puts any in its genre around the world to distant seconds. Go to Africa's Kingdom of Pleasure: Enter
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| Lyta boys "We go represent" dance' Yes, meet Lyta Boys on February 22 for the Legacy |
Presenting Vote of Thanks
Mandela Lives!
Through His Legacy
Mrs Eunice Urama of Exclusive Ladies of Enugu State Association Walks to the Podium: December 22, 2013
His Royal Highness King Tossoh Gbaguidi X111
of Benin presided at the Mandela-King Award Banquet.
African organizations and African volunteers are partnering for Medical Missions to various parts of Africa
| The minds behind Medical Missions to Africa |
Relindis Oyebog Moffor with Angels of Mercy: Press
Africa's Secret Weapon: The Diaspora
"African Development Project (ADP) of the World Bank seeks to further enable and enhance the human and financial capital contributions of African Diasporas to the economic development of their home countries.
The program was launched in September 2007 and focuses on strengthening policy, financial, and human capital development in Africa through a portfolio of activities and support in partnership with the African Union (AU), partner countries, partner donors, and African Diaspora Professional Networks and Hometown Associations."
We have to revisit the conversation to truly include the larger segment of Hometown Associations that have no idea of the ADP.
| African Women Cancer Awareness is undertaking missions to Africa |
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Read More on African Union Outreach: Click
Read More on African Institute of Remittances: Click
Beyond Remittances, governments have been discussing the Africa Diaspora n Bond: Click
Binta Terrier of PLAD brings sense and sensibility to the issues: Energy and Land.
| AFRICAN YOUTH CONFERENCE LAUNCHED IN ACCRA 2013
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African African Agriculture Needs Trade; Not Aid
Read
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Dambisa Moyo on why aid to Africa has been a disaster
There are Silver Linings.
Africa's Growth is Ahead of other Regions: Read
| Anthem of the African Union (English version) |
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Whats Brewing
Organic & African Coffee
For Your Taste and Toast!
Got Musical and Showmanship Genes? East Africans on the Continent are up to it with a hilt. The Tucker Project Fame is in its 6th season. We randomly chose the Fourth Season with winner Davis Ntare from Uganda. He won the season after an electric performance: Muzina by Tabu Ley Rochereau in the last video.
Aneth and Davis |
Gaga and Davis |
| Davis on Muzina |
Where is Davis now? Connect with on: Facebook |
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Some Land Mark Dates in Vision 2014
International Women's Month.
Conference and Gala
The Essence of Holistic Education in the Global Age.
Friday March 28 and Saturday March 28
Heard of Educational Mission to Africa?
Usher in Summer with the Socially Responsible Philanthropic Entrepreneurs:
Bob and Yvonne Takusi
| Kelly Weddings & Decor June 7, 2014 |
African Liberation Day:
Saluting the Founders' Symposium and
Dinner: Saturday May 24
Day of the African Child
June 16
Rock the African Land Concert:
Papa's Land is not for Grab
Saturday, September 27
The Second Mandela-King Banquet Awards
Saturday, October 11
September is
African Heritage Month
Special thanks to Christophe Hazoume
of the USDiaspora Media who has proved to be a socially responsible and reliable source of African news coverage. Click
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About You, Tell Us
Send information about the accomplishments, sometimes over coffee.
Patronize African Brand
Send information to |
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In Pictures: Honoring the Life and Legacy of the
Iconic Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela
He Lives!
When We Exemplify His Ideals In Community Empowerment
We bring you cross sections of participants at the Tribute to the Life and Legacy of Iconic Mandela by the members of Continental African Community on December 22, 2013. The event was coordinated by Caslight.
The delicious dinner in the splendor of the dining room downstairs was sponsored by community leaders. Let me just mention the African men: The Vice President of Urban Parking Management and Ethiopian Markets: Mohammed Mohammed (yes that is the name) provided bud tempting Ethiopian Cuisine and Soda. Check the recipe for Ethiopian Ambasha.
The mouth watering Dabo Kolo requires all self-respecting African women to do cookery to keep the continent healthy and happy. SMILE.
The Master of Ceremonies, Athanis Kadjemes, President of a branch of the Nde Association in the Cameroon community rose above the call of hospitality and sponsored the program with food from Central and West Africa.
After a delicious super, participants moved upstairs for the program, which opened with an uplifting prayer eloquently delivered by Pastor Theresa Ofong from Sierra Leone. Not everyone was captured in the cameras and we certainly cannot post all the pictures. However, the few pictures will do.
Many lessons were drawn from the inspiring life of the Icon. Presenters recalled that African nations supported Mandela and the ANC, including providing passports as they traveled and evaded detection. This African solidarity was highlighted by Tanzanian President Kikwete at the funeral of Madiba on December 15 2013 in South Africa.Watch the video below. This explains why Madiba remains the Father to all Africa and why Africa Diaspora members, as an inclusive community, came together with Friends of Africa to celebrate Mandela's virtues on December 22, 2013.
Thanks to the "African without Barriers" who, within 10 days, organized and/or attended and rendered a substantive and successful program in honor of the Icon. You came and the rest is Legacy!
| President Kikwete pays tribute to Madiba |
Brother Cliff, Director of the Sixth Region Caucus, Maryland, gave a thematic, timeline power presentation that took the rapt audience through Mandela's legacies.
In Mandela's Long Walk to Freedom we continue the walk by overcoming challenges to freedom. Africa is not free if her lands are being grabbed. Binta Terrier, a native of Guinea and founder of Partnership League for Africa's Development, called for action. The sensitizing concert is on September 27, 2014 at the Constitutional Hall in Washington, DC.
" His Day is Done. "
Members of the Exclusive Ladies of Enugu State Association (ELOSEA) recited the
Poem by Maya Angelou in Tribute to Nelson Mandela.
| His Day is Done - A Tribute Poem for Nelson Mandela by Dr. Maya Angelou |
Portrait of Leadership: African Men
In hat is the personal body guard of Emperor Haile Selasie bringing enriching history to the program.
Reverend Lennox Abrigo, President, National Action Network (NAN) Washington, DC Chapter gave a a resounding and interactive Keynote address on today's lesson from Mandela's virtues. In appreciative moods, participants looked into the eyes of the next person, promising to "have their back" in other words. MsJoe (right and sitting) listening and nodding.
The Reverend Al Sharpton is the Founder and National President of the National Action Network.
Mr. Jesse Morrow, Human Rights Director of the Church of Scientology, called attention to proven community-based programs that improve quality of life in communities and cited
the work of Nelson Mandela in promoting an equitable society.
Marie Mimko from the Gabonese Community delivered a call to equality in development, as exemplified by Madiba.
Ethiopian Sister cheers on!
Dr. Stanley Onye (right), Candidate for the Prince George's District 25 for Delegate to the Maryland House of Assembly called for civic awakening in upholding Mandela's legacy.
Russ Campell, Chairman, Human Rights Commission, Montgomery County, was back! He gave a rousing introduction of the Honorable George Leventhal,Vice President of Montgomery County Council and Chairperson of the Heath and Human Service Committee.
The Honorable George Leventhal gave the Keynote Response to the Community, calling on engagements between the community and policy makers in order to improve conditions for all.
Mrs. Eunice Urama, President Emeritus of ELOSEA
Mrs Urama aka Ada Jesus gave the Vote of Thanks and a passionate call to promote Mandela's passion for Education as exemplified by ELOSEA's program.
Councilman Edouard Haba, the first elected public officer of African immigrant background in the Washington Metropolitan area.
Councilman Haba, City of Hyattsville, Maryland gave the closing remarks. Yes, Public Service enables the Long Walk to Freedom as we celebrate the Live and Legacy of Iconic Mandela.
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Flash Back: Mr. Edwin Udenkwo, first elected President of the Multicultural Alliance of Prince George's County introduced Councilman Edouard Haba who received the Valor Award at the Mandela-King Banquet from HRH King Tossoh Gbaguidi X111of Benin.
Yes, Mr. Udenkwo and the Prince George's Delegation were back on December 22, 2013 to honor the Life and Legacy of Mandela.
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The stylish presence and substantive content of Exclusive Ladies of Enugu State Association, Inc (ELOSEA) captured the versality of the African Woman. The Iconic Mandela called equity for the African Woman.
From left sitting: Evelyn Joe (invited to the pic) the Vice President of ELOSEA, Mrs. Ngozi Eze; President Emeritus Mrs. Eunice Urama; and Mr. Tamrat Medhin of Little Ethiopia (could not miss out, smile); and Madam Secretary, Mrs Iffy Amadi-Davis.
From Left to Right (Standing): Chief Emmanuel Osakwe,. Mrs. Helen Nnadi,. Mrs. Mary Madu, Hon. Mrs. Ada Nora Aninta, Hon. Mrs. Theresa Orah(ELOESA President), The Honorable George Leventhal of Montgomery County, Dr. Mrs. Felicia Edoga, Hon. Mrs. Nkechi Osakwe, Hon. Stella Attah.
Madam Vice President Ngozi: The megawatt smile says it all:
The inclusive Continental African Tribute to the Life and Legacy of the Iconic Nelson Mandela was a befitting success. This landmark event testifies to the unifying glory of Madiba: A Son of Africa and Leader Without Borders.
Africans in the Diaspora are coming to terms with the loss of Mandela
The US - African Summit on August 5 and 6, 2014: Read
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