Natural creativity, deep culture and abundant human and natural resources have been described as the key factors that make the African continent unique
These were the views of a cross-section of young Africans who spoke to VON as they joined their kindred around the world to celebrate the International Day for People of African Descent (IDPAD) – held every August 31st .
This celebration was set aside by the UN to promote the extraordinary contributions of the African diaspora around the world and to eliminate all forms of discrimination against people of African descent.
Monalisa Mobambi from Zimbabwe said she loves being African because of the rich and diverse culture that cut across all Fifty-Six States.
“We are filled with so many different things, from the food, music, culture, fashion, tourism. It is such a beautiful continent and I love it,” she said.
Camerounian-born Cyprian Patrick noted that the International Day for People of African Descent was significant because: “it promotes the extraordinary contributions of the African diaspora around the world.
“Africa’s diversity is a testament to the beauty of the continent,” he added.
People of African descent in the world are estimated to be around 1.3 billion people, or about 17% of the world’s population.
Advantage
The population of people of African descent is growing rapidly, due to high birth rates, immigration, and intermarriage.
Also, the growth of the African diaspora is having a significant impact on the world, as people of African descent are increasingly becoming involved in all aspects of society.
“We are a very resourceful group of people, there’s no other place I find interesting to live in like Africa,” said Abdulnasir Imam, a Nigerian national.
“Africa has a rich historical and cultural heritage that continues to resonate with humanity on several levels.”
Another key advantage of Africa’s diaspora community is the fact that it serves as a major source of investment and trade for Africa.
In 2020 alone, the African diaspora sent an estimated $48 billion in remittances to Africa, making it the second-largest source of foreign exchange after exports.
Entertainment
In the last few years, African entertainment has now gone global.
Through music genres like Afrobeats as well as an ever growing movie industry, African culture and nuances have gone mainstream, thereby building new bonds and relationships across oceans.
“African music is becoming increasingly popular, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido topping charts around the world,” said Bella Oroko Cadigan, a Nigerian.
“African films and TV shows are also becoming more visible, with productions like “Black Panther” and “Queen Sono” receiving critical acclaim. Their contributions are helping to make the world a more diverse and equitable place.”
Indeed the continent of Africa and people of African descent have had an enormous impact on the development, diversity and richness of world civilizations and cultures, which constitute the common heritage of humankind.
