Funmilayo Adeyemi
The Africa Diaspora Corporation (ADC) is set to unveil a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reconnecting African professionals in the diaspora with their home countries.
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The Chairman, ADC Board, Dr Joachin Okafor, said at a news conference in Abuja on Monday that the initiative called “Diaspora Hub” aimed at countering Africa’s long-standing brain drain.
Okafor said this would be done by creating a digital marketplace for professionals to contribute to the continent’s development focusing on improving healthcare, education and housing.
“ADC is a collective of African professionals who share a vision to enhance the lives of their loved ones back home.
“For centuries, Africa has suffered a massive brain drain, with many of its brightest minds contributing to Western innovations.
“Our mission is to reverse this trend by using 21st-century technology to bridge the gap between Africa and its diaspora.
“The diaspora hub will use 21st century technology to connect diasporans with activities back home and, thereby, help reverse brain drain,” he said.
Okafor added that the corporation had developed a digital marketplace to facilitate investment and participation in African development projects.
He said the platform would initially focus on healthcare and housing, with future expansion into education, skilled training and transportation.
Also, Dr Sylvester Ejeh, ADC’s Director of Investments, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to healthcare reform through the introduction of Diaspora Insurance.
“Many in the diaspora send money home for medical expenses, but these funds are often diverted to other necessities.
“With Diaspora Insurance, individuals can purchase health policies for their families, ensuring direct access to medical care,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the ADC’s Country Director in Nigeria, Chike Amadichi, highlighted the importance of diaspora engagement in healthcare and education.
“Currently, only seven per cent of Nigerians have health insurance. With over 20 million Nigerians living abroad, we see a huge opportunity to improve our healthcare system through diaspora-driven initiatives,” Amadichi said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the diaspora hub will serve as a one-stop-shop for diasporans interested in reconnecting with Africa, offering opportunities for investment in real estate, education and healthcare support. (NAN)
