Harnessing the diaspora advantage

Abstract

As Africa strides towards attaining Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2063 for inclusive development, harnessing both internal and external expertise is crucial. Yet, the continent's vast, highly skilled diaspora remains largely sidelined in education systems and knowledge economies. This paper explores the lived experiences of the African diaspora including professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and African stakeholders, including academics, university leadership, policymakers, and business leaders, using the coloniality lens to develop a framework for equitable and inclusive diaspora knowledge democracy. Data collection involved interviews with 25 diaspora professionals and 15 African stakeholders. Findings revealed a complex interplay of factors which constrain equitable and inclusive diaspora knowledge democracy which promotes diaspora contribution to Africa’s development. However, both groups expressed a strong commitment to Africa’s progress. The paper proposes a framework for collaborative approaches for dismantling colonial dividers through policy supported by building blocks such as incentives and support, knowledge exchange, engagement channels, and impact reviews. By positioning the diaspora as equitable knowledge democracy partners, Africa can accelerate research translation and fuel sustainable growth.