Ethiopia's Institute of Foreign Affairs Emphasizes Growing Role of Diaspora in Africa’s Transformation

Addis Ababa, April 30, 2026 —Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) has underscored the increasing importance of the African diaspora in shaping the continent’s future, calling for stronger engagement to unlock its full potential.

Speaking at the African Diaspora Stakeholders’ Forum in Addis Ababa, Deputy Executive Director Mohammedrafi Abaraya emphasized that Africa’s transformation will be driven not only from within the continent, but also by millions of Africans living abroad.

Held under the theme “Harnessing Diaspora Potential for Continental Development and Integration,” a two-day forum brought together stakeholders to explore ways of strengthening diaspora contributions across sectors.

Mohammedrafi noted that diaspora communities play a vital role through investment, innovation, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing.

He added that they also help amplify Africa’s voice and visibility in an increasingly interconnected and multipolar world.

 

The African diaspora, recognized by the African Union as the continent’s “sixth region”—is estimated at more than 140 million people globally.

Their economic impact is significant, with remittance flows exceeding 100 billion US dollars annually in recent years, according to institutions such as the World Bank.

In several African countries, remittances surpass foreign direct investment and official development assistance.

Beyond financial contributions, diaspora communities are increasingly involved in peacebuilding, humanitarian efforts, governance processes, and cultural diplomacy.

However, Mohammedrafi cautioned that their full potential remains underutilized due to structural challenges, including limited policy coordination, institutional bottlenecks, and insufficient engagement platforms.

He stressed the need for a more deliberate and strategic approach, highlighting efforts by countries such as Ethiopia to adopt citizen-centered policies aimed at strengthening diaspora participation.

According to him, diaspora communities are uniquely positioned to facilitate trade, foster innovation, and promote dialogue, making them key drivers of regional integration across Africa.

 

He also pointed to the enduring legacy of victory of Battle of Adwa as a symbol of African resilience, unity and dignity, noting its continued influence in reinforcing Pan-African ideals among diaspora communities.

Echoing similar views, Fitsum Arega, Director General of the Ethiopian Diaspora Service, highlighted growing interest in diaspora engagement across the continent.

He said countries are increasingly looking to diaspora communities as sources of investment, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

 

“We see this potential every day through remittances, investments, and knowledge exchange, as well as the strong connections people maintain with their countries of origin,” he said.

The forum, he added, provides a platform to share experiences, deepen collaboration, and develop more effective approaches to diaspora engagement, both for Ethiopia and the broader African continent.

As discussions continue, participants stressed that strengthening diaspora-focused policies and fostering sustained partnerships could significantly advance trade, peacebuilding, governance, and regional integration, positioning the diaspora as a central force in Africa’s long-term development.