Introduction
The African diaspora scattered around the world carries a complex identity rooted in its origins yet shaped by the realities of the societies in which it finds acceptance. However, beyond borders, Africans and their descendants are often still perceived as "different" in countries where they reside, subject to cultural stereotypes and labels, which limit their true acceptance. In this context, the economic, social, and cultural impact of the African diaspora on Africa’s development raises an important question: How can this diaspora, while grappling with identity issues and the expectations of Western societies, act as a driving force for the continent's progress? The interaction between the African diaspora and Africa’s development challenges both the diaspora’s ability to make sustained investments in the continent's issues and the need for African countries to leverage and benefit from this unique bond.
Cultural Labeling: An Obstacle to Genuine Integration
In a world where every individual is labeled, dominated by interest-driven nationalism, and where an atmosphere of distrust, blame, and even hatred prevails, the meaning of true happiness lies only in rooting oneself in one's own land and among one's own people. No matter where we are, outside our homeland, we remain perpetual strangers, categorized by labels that predefine us.
Even though Black individuals in the United States possess all citizenship rights, they are consistently categorized as African Americans, implying their African roots. A similar situation exists in Europe and Asia. The same applies to Africans in Europe and America or Asians in Africa. In Africa, there is a saying: “A piece of wood floating in the water does not turn into a crocodile.”
This observation should not be seen as a call against coexistence but rather as an acknowledgment of an undeniable truth. Therefore, the support of coexistence among individuals, in all their diversity, is necessary. Labels should not serve as barriers; instead, they should invite us to appreciate and celebrate the richness that diversity brings to our world. By embracing this diversity, a future where mutual understanding transcends labels becomes possible, but only through mutual respect and understanding among individuals.
Development and Power as Determinants of Respect and Recognition
The matter of gaining respect and recognition on a global scale is complex and multifaceted. Although not universally true, it is often observed that the respect shown to a nation is closely linked to factors such as its standard of living, economic development, reputation, and its economic, diplomatic, and even military strength. In this context, the African diaspora serves as an interesting example emphasizing the significance of commitment to one’s homeland in achieving international respect.
The standard of living and economic development of a nation significantly influence how its people are perceived globally. Countries that invest in improving their citizens' living conditions and make strides in economic progress are generally more respected on the international stage. Nations that contribute positively to peacekeeping operations, counter-terrorism efforts, and other global security initiatives tend to gain the respect of the international community. In such cases, diasporas that contribute to socio-political, economic, diplomatic, and military advancements share in this positive reputation.
This highlights the necessity of loyalty to one’s homeland. This does not mean that no one should leave their country, but rather that, unless issues within one’s country are resolved, it is unlikely for anyone to be truly valued and respected elsewhere. The African diaspora can significantly improve the international image of their countries by actively working toward their homeland’s development. This demonstrates the importance of individual and collective commitment to positively influencing how nations are perceived globally.
The Central Role of the African Diaspora in Shaping the Continent’s Global Perception
Leaving one’s homeland to acquire knowledge, experience, and resources, especially in the West, and then returning to assist one's homeland is certainly commendable. However, when viewed as an escape from one’s reality to pursue a supposedly better life elsewhere, this behavior can be seen as a lack of courage and a way to evade personal responsibilities. This brain drain and emigration worsen the imbalance in relations not only due to the dependency of our states on the West but also because of the attachment of our youth to an idealized vision of the West.
Yet, within this idealized dream, these young individuals are rarely recognized and appreciated according to their actual talents. In the eyes of the residents of this imagined world, they are merely individuals from a nation perceived as weak, failing, and regressive. No matter how significant their position may be in public administration or society, as long as their nation is driven by poverty and injustice and survives on foreign aid, they will continue to be regarded as insignificant.
A Black person in Europe or America often evokes memories of slavery and colonialism. Once in the plantations; yesterday on the front lines against the Nazis, and today at the service of multinational corporations. Even if metropolises change their policies, the underlying objective remains unchanged. The French national football team, with over 70% of its players of African origin, is a striking example of this.
During the 2018 World Cup, the subtext of the French neo-colonialist class was quite clear: “Come on, boys, do the job and bring the cup home.” The World Cup victory, of course, glorifies the French. However, despite all the respect and admiration directed toward African players in the French team, the question of how truly "French" they are can only be answered flexibly within specific contexts and perspectives. On the other hand, there is no doubt that they are African, from countries like Guinea, Cameroon, Mali, Algeria, etc.
The Economic Contribution of the Diaspora: A Wealth for Africa, But at What Cost?
It is crucial to highlight that the diaspora constitutes a vital financial resource for African economies. For example, according to World Bank data from 2019, while Senegal received $1.4 billion in public development aid and less than $1 billion in net foreign direct investment, remittances sent by the diaspora reached $2.4 billion. This amount exceeds the combined total of public development aid and foreign direct investments, making it a critical financial source for Senegal's economy.
However, given the low level of industrialization and import-dependent consumption patterns of many African countries like Senegal, funds sent by the diaspora to support households end up strengthening Western producers and increasing Africa's dependency on the consumption system.
In practice, considering foreign exchange conversion fees (e.g., from Euro to CFA Franc or from dollars to Euro, then to CFA Franc), transfer fees, and taxes on imported products, the diaspora has to mobilize nearly twice the amount—around 10 Euros—to achieve consumption equivalent to 5 Euros in Africa. It is vital to earn and consume locally produced goods. In this regard, Thomas Sankara’s statement is significant: “Let’s consume what we produce, and produce what we consume.”
The Diaspora’s Current Challenges against Neocolonialist Policies
Today, whether the African diaspora originated from the Atlantic slave trade, colonialism, or the pursuit of a better future, it must learn from these experiences to contribute to Africa’s development, either by returning to the continent or supporting it from abroad. The experiences of Garvey and Liberia reveal that a diaspora long detached from its homeland often develops a fantasy world far removed from on-the-ground realities. For instance, Garvey failed to consider the major issues of colonial influences by powers like France and England and the rampant corruption within Liberia’s regime of that era.
Furthermore, the diaspora, relying on data that does not fully capture the socio-economic and political dynamics, sometimes adopts Europe or America-centric solutions, proclaiming itself as Africa’s savior. This often exacerbates the dire conditions in many African nations.
Many members of the diaspora fall into a trap set by the Françafrique system, which determines the sectors and investment methods. In their pursuit of wealth by any means, the African diaspora in Europe risks becoming an easy target of the neo-imperialist Françafrique policies.
This policy was not designed to sever ties with former colonies but rather to entrust control to a trained and supported elite class that would manage these territories in the name of the metropole. In other words, it represents a transition from what could be called "direct" colonialism to "indirect" colonialism.
Towards an Aware Diaspora Youth: The Need for Meaningful Contributions to Africa
The 2021 “Africa-France” summit held in Montpellier sheds light on the current situation. The French government, acknowledging the growing awareness among African youth and recognizing their undeniable dynamism, sought a new direction, moving away from alliances with former authoritarian leaders.
The establishment of the African Presidential Council (CPA), composed entirely of young individuals in their thirties, most of whom are dual nationals, entrepreneurs, or civil society activists, reflects the Élysée’s desire for renewal. However, the question remains: Does Africa truly need this diaspora youth who are open to external influence, or rather, a youth who understands both the diaspora's condition and the continent’s realities, and who are aware of global, regional, and national issues?
Dr. Cherif Salif Sy criticized the notion of “poverty-inducing” growth driven by foreign investments. He argued that such growth contributes to the impoverishment of the continent because much of the added value generated is captured by external partners.
In other words, this type of growth does not create jobs for the abundant labor force in African countries. It is clear that foreign investments are not made with the primary goal of improving Africans' well-being. If that were the case, there would be less massive imports from America, Asia, or Europe, and instead, there would be support for local production.
Conclusion
The African diaspora holds tremendous potential to contribute to Africa’s development, but this potential can only be fully realized if diaspora members feel valued both in their host countries and in Africa. It is, therefore, crucial to go beyond reductive labels and foster a more inclusive and multi-identity collaboration between African governments and the diaspora. The challenges are numerous—ranging from prejudices and economic difficulties to the legacies of colonial history—but the youth of Africa and its diaspora are called to be forces of transformation. By strengthening their engagement and solidarity, the diaspora can not only contribute to Africa’s rise but also help build a narrative of Africa that is respected, dynamic, and influential on the international stage.
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