Economic Independence — Pillar 2
2. Economic Independence
Objective: To create economic self-sufficiency within the Diaspora through financial, political, and legal independence, while advocating for reparations.
A. Financial Independence:
Strategies:
- Investment Networks: Establish investment funds and venture capital networks for Diaspora members to invest in African start-ups, real estate, and key industries on the continent. Create platforms to match investors with promising business opportunities.
- Entrepreneurship Programs: Offer training and resources for aspiring entrepreneurs in the Diaspora, providing them with tools to start and scale businesses. Promote African business models that leverage local and global markets.
- Financial Literacy: Develop financial education programs that teach wealth-building strategies, investment techniques, and money management, specifically tailored to African Diaspora communities.
B. Political Independence:
Strategies:
- Advocacy and Policy Influence: Establish a global advocacy network that works with governments, international organisations, and the African Union to influence policies that empower the Diaspora, such as dual citizenship, trade agreements, and Diaspora engagement in governance.
- Political Representation: Create pathways for Diaspora members to take on political leadership roles within African governments or international political bodies. Offer training in political campaigning, public policy, and leadership.
- Lobbying and Global Diplomacy: Build lobbying teams to advocate for the economic, political, and social interests of the African Diaspora at international forums like the UN, G20, and World Bank.
C. Legal Independence:
Strategies:
- Legal Empowerment: Establish a global legal support network to assist Diaspora members with navigating legal systems in their home countries and abroad. Provide resources for understanding international laws related to business, immigration, and property ownership.
- Diaspora Legal Advisory: Create a coalition of lawyers and legal experts who can offer pro bono or affordable legal services to those who need them, particularly around issues like inheritance, dual citizenship, and land ownership.
D. Reparations:
Strategies:
- Reparations Campaign: Develop and promote a global reparations campaign aimed at securing compensation from former colonial powers and international bodies for the systemic exploitation of African peoples and resources.
- Collaboration with International Bodies: Partner with organisations like the UN, African Union, and other human rights groups to formally demand reparations and reparative justice. Lobby for the creation of international treaties that address historical injustices.
- Funding for Community Projects: Allocate a portion of reparations funds towards the development of infrastructure, education, healthcare, and cultural preservation in both African Diaspora communities and the continent.
Impact:
- Increased financial security for Diaspora members.
- Greater political influence of the African Diaspora in global and local policies.
- Enhanced access to legal resources and rights.
- A pathway for justice through reparations and acknowledgment of past injustices.