Greetings to All, and Happy Black History Month!
At the U.S. African Development Foundation, we believe in the tremendous value and essential contributions of Africa and its Diaspora in the United States. In addition to African Americans, this Diaspora includes nearly 2 million African immigrants with close connections to the African continent. Together, their economic power of over US$80 billion in remittances, youth populations, and innovations are a source of increasing strength and sway.
There is no denying that these communities contribute mightily to economic growth and prosperity in America and throughout Africa.
As we commemorate Black History Month, USADF is reimagining how we advance opportunities for the African Diaspora to strengthen ties with African communities and enterprises through trade, investment, economic growth, and development programs.
At the recent U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, USADF announced the launch of a $100,000 Annual Diaspora Award. This award will provide funding to U.S.-based businesses owned and led by members of the African Diaspora to support their ability to strengthen trade and investment relationships with African small and medium enterprises.
Stay tuned as we announce the inaugural USADF Diaspora Award finalists later this year!
I also want to highlight the expansion of USADF’s partnership with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) Foundation to increase investment and development in Africa. This year we expect to announce several additional NBA Players as partners in our community-level development programs. A special thanks to Bismack Biyombo of the Phoenix Suns, Serge Ibaka of the Milwaukee Bucks, and Ezekiel Nnaji of the Denver Nuggets, who have already partnered with us in their home countries.
In closing, as we reflect during Black History month – on the strength, resilience, and creativity of Americans of African descent – we are committed to the promotion of Africa’s economic growth, as well as to building coalitions for maximum impact to that end.
Wishing you a wonderful Black History Month from all of us at the U.S. African Development Foundation!
Sincerely,
Travis Adkins
President and CEO, USADF