The clout of Africa's diaspora

From: The East African, January 2, 2006

By Oscar Kimanuka

The second Rwanda Diaspora Global Convention was held in Kigali recently. It focused on how Rwandans living abroad - who remit an estimated $40 million to Rwanda annually - can contribute to the development of Rwanda. 

The convention examined the country's socio-economic development with particular emphasis on investment, capacity building and financial transfers. In November 2005, the Jeune Afrique Intelligence magazine reported that immigrant workers from the South transfer $232 billion to their families.

This amount is said to be three times the international aid disbursed worldwide. The Rwandan diaspora represents a significant market opportunity in various aspects of human endeavour. They possess purchasing power, many have access to credit cards and other network-friendly payment systems and some are willing to use the Internet for purchases. 

SUPPORT MUST be given to the diaspora to exploit opportunities, including the effort to overcome any psychological and other barriers that may exist. Through their own remittances and other forms of transfers, Rwanda's diaspora represents a significant source of capital. Many would be willing to support telecentres in rural areas where they have links, which would contribute significantly to the development of ICT.

There is an evident desire among the diaspora to increase their investment in the country. What is crucial is creating the required infrastructure to enable their continued investment. 

RWANDA'S DIASPORA should also contribute skills to bridge the human capacity gaps that exist in the country. As the recommendation of the Commission for Africa's report said, "Skilled professionals are key to building improvements in the administration and technical ability, which Africa gravely lacks. 

The international community should commit to providing $500 million a year for 10 years to revitalise Africa's institutions of higher learning and up to $3 billion for 10 years to develop centres of excellence in science and technology, including African institutes of technology." 

Oscar Kimanuka is a commentator on social and economic issues based in Kigali. 

Email: oscar_kim2000@yahoo.co.uk