For the last 30 years, AFFORD has strived to demonstrate the global significance of the African diaspora and to expand and enhance its positive contributions to the development of the African continent and the wider world. This has been realised through the actions of ordinary individuals making extraordinary, consistent contributions, from AFFORD’s founders, trustees, staff, resource persons and volunteers, as well as by our many funders and supporters over the last 30 years.
Today, we continue to act as a catalyst and an exemplar in the sector, with our advocacy work contributing to UK and international recognition of the role of the diaspora, and in the subsequent initiation of new policies, programmes, funds and schemes. These initiatives have so far unlocked more than £100 million for diaspora causes and activities. The Africa remittance economy was worth over $US 100 billion in 2022, financing education fees, healthcare costs, day to day living expenses, investments in SMEs, job creation, construction and real estate projects. According to the Migration Policy Institute, remittances have been the most reliable source of financial streams into the Global South and accounts for the largest source of foreign income outweighing Foreign Direct Investment and official humanitarian sources of funding.
“It is our responsibility as African diaspora to give something back. We act as a bridge for African development. We understand Africa and we also understand the UK.” Bimbo Folayan, Nigerian Diaspora Direct Investment Summit (NDDIS), AD3 2023
Members of the African diaspora make huge contributions to Africa through the remittances and investments they make, the skills and knowledge they transfer and the policy changes they bring about by successful advocacy, the cultural exchanges and engagement which have created huge markets for heritage tourism, African music, films and fashion.
For nearly 30 years, AFFORD has been a pioneer in African diaspora policy and practice, mobilising diaspora resources for decent job creation and enterprise development. As we enter our 30th year we will be taking this opportunity to mobilise new supporters, collaborators and sponsors, deepen, and broker old and new partnerships and raise funds to consolidate our ongoing work. With a mission ‘to enhance and expand diaspora contributions to Africa’s development’.
“AFFORD is not only a think tank, but it is also a do tank” AD3 2023
AFFORD’s 30-year journey would not have happened without the generosity of supporters, donors and friends of AFFORD through precious resources such as time, money and skills. To move us closer to developing instruments that continue to sustain the sector and diaspora impact, AFFORD will need to raise £300,000 over the next 12 months. We will share more on this in due course. Please consider getting us started towards our goal by making a pledge via the link below or by donation.
Thank you for your generosity and continued support.