Afford news

AFFORD will launch a pilot project in Benin to examine the investment potential of the diaspora in the small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector with the aim of strengthening entrepreneurship and creating sustainable jobs. 

AFFORD will play a key role at the Civil Society Day (CSD) of the Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD) being held in Quito, Ecuador, this week (January 20-24).

“When I speak about harnessing and mobilising diasporas resources for African development, it is within the context of this broader Global Africa – and not always as tragedy, though tragedy and inhuman treatment there is aplenty. My organisation also works on the basis of win-win – so Africa benefits, the diaspora should also see clear benefits.” 

Are you looking for a short-term flexible and varied role to kick-start or boost your marketing career while supporting AFFORD to enhance its voice on diaspora and development? If so, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious and career-driven Communications and Marketing Assistant to join and support a small yet dynamic Communications team at AFFORD.

Rwanda faces an acute housing crisis. Rapid urbanisation drives an urgent requirement for new housing units, with demand of 31,000 units against 1000 new constructions just in the capital city, Kigali. A huge factor in the shortage of housing supply is the ongoing challenge of affordability, with average waged citizens priced out of the traditional market, and the real estate and construction sector of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) unable to access the finance to solve the problems through the market. Unlocking new private capital of $331 billion needed for SME growth in Africa to finance affordable housing and general development in countries like Rwanda, is one of the greatest challenges for governments, philanthropists, and private investors.  

In July 2019, AFFORD marks its 25th anniversary with a call to the African diaspora to do more for the growth and development of Africa. Going beyond sending money home, the diaspora should now seek opportunities that will target key strategic sectors in order to transform Africa in the next 25 years.

“Home Office data on visa refusals shows that African applicants are more than twice as likely to be refused a UK visa than applicants from any other part of the world.  The UK has good relations with most African countries, but it needs to be recognised that no single issue does more damage to the image or influence of the UK in Africa than this visa question.”

AFFORD is pleased to announce that Ndidi Njoku has been elected as Chair by the AFFORD board of trustees with immediate effect. Ndidi has been a Board member since 2014 and replaces Ade Daramy who stepped down after 3 years.

Our ABC Connect: The Business of Food event brought together some key players in the Africa diaspora food industry, along with aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. We heard from Emeka Frederick of Chuku’s London on his successful crowdfunding campaign for a permanent restaurant, and Dare Oni of Onidodo on her creative process when creating Nigerian-fusion dishes. Both shared great advice and tips with attendees, and it was a wonderful evening of networking and learning.