AFRICAN DIASPORA AND THE PROBLEMS OF POVERTY AND DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

Abstract

One of the most salient features of contemporary globalization is the increase in migration around the world, and one consequence of this phenomenon which is already evident, is the emergence of a large Diaspora from Africa in the affluent countries of the West. However, despite the huge number of African Diaspora in Western host countries, they have rarely been the object of serious study and consequently very little are known about them, hence, the significance of this study. The study seeks to gain a clearer understanding of the significance and role of the large number of Africans in Diaspora. The main focus of this study is on the impact of the African Diaspora on development in their homelands. It focuses also on issues such as motives for migration, the social contacts the Diaspora maintain with their countries of origin, and the general effects of migration to countries of origin. In concrete terms, this study aims to examine the role played by African Diaspora in the economic, social, and political development of their respective homelands. The study recognizes the potential of the huge number of Africans with Western nationalities and their strategic position as a bridge between Africa and other parts of the world. Their strategic position is an asset which can provide mutual benefits to both partners. Yet in the contemporary development debates on Africa, this important role that African Diaspora can play has been largely ignored. Given the abject poverty in much of Africa, this study is significantly and urgently needed. Now, more than ever, it is vital to improve our understanding of the African Diaspora and their contribution to the reduction of poverty and facilitation of development in Africa. More importantly, there should be a growing realization among African Diaspora that they have a responsibility to help their home continent since the official development aid over the years has achieved little. Africa regresses while the rest of the world progresses. This painful realization should be of growing concern among African Diaspora who believe that they are in a better position to positively influence the overall development in Africa at present because of their sizeable presence in the economic and political power centers in the West. The findings of the study also identify areas in which research and policy intervention is necessary.