General States of African Diasporas: When diasporas form a nation between innovation, dialogue and diversity

Emmanuel Macron was honored with the prestigious trophy of honor of Africanness during the General States of African Diasporas.

The Maison de la Chimie in Paris brought together nearly 1000 influential personalities from African diasporas during the General States of African Diasporas on December 15.

Among the distinguished guests were the President of Cape Verde José Maria Pereira Neves, the First Lady of Liberia, Ministers, Djanana Djuna, about twenty ambassadors, Mayors from France and many African countries, as well as influential personalities such as:
• Jean-Michel Blanquer, former Minister of National Education,
• Tidjane Thiam, Ivorian-French business leader and politician,
• Latifa Ibn Zaiten, founder of the IMAD association,
• Karim Zeribi, former European MP,
• Robert Ejnes, Executive Director of CRIF.

The Estates General were punctuated by four structuring round tables around unifying themes:
1. Citizenship: strengthening the place of diasporas in public and institutional life.
2. Education: building bridges to promote the success of younger generations.
3. Entrepreneurship: Promoting economic initiatives as levers for development.
4. Democracy: Promoting active and inclusive participation in contemporary debates.
These constructive discussions made it possible to identify concrete solutions to meet the expectations of diasporas and anticipate future challenges.

Under the theme « When diasporas form a nation », the day aims to create a platform for dialogue and collaboration between African diasporas. The objective was to encourage their integration in France, and to strengthen their role in relations between France and Africa. The president of the HCDAF, Rachida Kaaout, describes this event as « a crucial moment to mobilize the driving forces of the diaspora and transform their aspirations into concrete actions ».

• Improving the representation and visibility of diasporas: It is essential to strengthen the representation of African diasporas in political, economic and social bodies. These Estates General explore ways to make the voice of diasporas heard, fight against discrimination and promote better inclusion in French society.
• Promote economic development and investments: The African diaspora is often a key player in financial support and investments in countries of origin. These Estates General seek to structure and encourage entrepreneurial initiatives, by facilitating exchanges and identifying strategic partnerships for economic development.

Beyond the discussions, the Estates General celebrated the cultural and artistic wealth of diasporas through various activities. Artistic performances, songs and dances punctuated this day, symbolizing the diversity and dynamism of African diasporas in France and around the world.

The Trophée de l’Africanité Foundation also honored the President Zéro Défaut, Cathy Defaut and Julienne Muka, Vice-Mayor of Toulouse, ambassadors in France of the FTA, by awarding them the African recognition medal.

The President of the High Commission for African Diasporas in France, Rachida Kaaout, declared that: « This first edition of the Estates General was a real success, up to the challenges and ambitions carried by the diasporas. This historic day demonstrated that African diasporas are a force for innovation, cooperation and transformation for France and their countries of origin. The Estates General of African Diasporas are thus establishing themselves as an essential platform for meeting today’s challenges and building a more united, inclusive and bold common future ».

©2024 – IMPACT EUROPEAN

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Gabriel MIHAI

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