In a move aimed at strengthening ties with African communities and countering global challenges, United States President Joe Biden announced the formation of the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement. The council’s diverse membership includes accomplished individuals, such as acclaimed actor Viola Davis, who will play a pivotal role in advising the administration on various matters related to Africa and its diaspora. This development underscores the United States’ commitment to deepening its engagement with the African continent.

Against the backdrop of growing competition from global powers like China and Russia in Africa, Washington has recognized the strategic significance of bolstering its presence and partnerships on the continent. Vice President Kamala Harris made a recent trip to Ghana, Zambia, and Tanzania to build on African relations. The decision to establish this advisory council was first unveiled during the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit held in December the previous year. This summit aimed to cement Washington’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with African nations and communities.

The President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement is expected to provide invaluable guidance to President Biden on a wide range of issues, including:

• Strengthening U.S.-Africa Relations: The council will offer insights into enhancing diplomatic ties and collaboration between the United States and African nations.
• Promoting Trade and Investment: Economic cooperation will be a key focus, with the council members working to identify opportunities for trade and investment between the two regions.
• Building Educational Exchanges: Facilitating educational partnerships and exchanges will be instrumental in fostering cross-cultural understanding and knowledge sharing.

The chair of the advisory council will be Silvester Beaman, the Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, known for delivering the benediction at President Biden’s inauguration in 2021. Bishop Beaman’s leadership underscores the significance of faith and community in African diaspora engagement.

Besides Viola Davis, the advisory council boasts a roster of accomplished individuals, including, Patrick Gaspard, President and CEO of the Center for American Progress think tank, C.D. Glin, President of the PepsiCo Foundation and global head of social impact for PepsiCo, Almaz Negash, Founder of the African Diaspora Network, known for her dedication to strengthening ties between African communities and the United States.

Viola Davis’s inclusion in the council is particularly noteworthy. Not only is she a renowned actress, but she has also achieved the rare distinction of winning an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony award (EGOT). Her Grammy win this year, for her audio recording of her memoir “Finding Me,” further solidifies her status as a revered artist and a multi-talented personality. Beyond her entertainment career, Davis has collaborated with various programs aimed at combatting child hunger in the United States, showcasing her commitment to philanthropy and social impact.

As the United States seeks to position itself as a more engaged and reliable partner to African nations, this advisory council signals a promising step forward. With a distinguished lineup of members and a clear mission to strengthen ties, it is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of U.S.-Africa relations.

Story by: Ivy Prosper