In a remarkable demonstration of Sierra Leone’s growing leadership on the global stage, the country has been named co-chair of the technical working group’s newly launched Global Diaspora Policy Alliance (GDPA). The initiative is poised to engage diaspora communities in addressing pressing global challenges, leveraging their knowledge, innovation, and resources to create lasting solutions.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Government of Cabo Verde announced the launch of the Global Diaspora Policy Alliance (GDPA) during the International Conference on the Future Agenda of Action for Global Diaspora Engagement, a pivotal event held in Cape Verde from September 13 to 14, 2024.
Mr Chiblee F. Kamara, Acting Commissioner of the Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Securit, led the Sierra Leone delegation, which included diaspora expert Ms Mercy IJeoma Oguama and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Sierra Leone. Their unwavering commitment
to harnessing the power of our diaspora for sustainable development instils confidence and security in our global partners. IOM Sierra Leone funded Sierra Leone’s participation.
Sierra Leone’s Role as Co-Chair
As co-chair of the GDPA’s technical working group, Sierra Leone will play a critical role in shaping policies that leverage diaspora contributions to address pressing global challenges on gender and youth issues. This marks a significant moment in the nation’s ongoing efforts to engage its diaspora communities, which have long played a vital role in supporting the country’s economic and social development. Sierra Leoneans abroad have been critical drivers of progress back home, from remittances that sustain families to investments in education and healthcare.
“As co-chair of the GDPA Technical Working Group, Sierra Leone is not only taking a seat at the global table but leading efforts to unlock the transformative power of diaspora engagement. This platform allows us to tap into the vast potential of
our citizens abroad, ensuring their contributions drive sustainable development and create new opportunities for our people. Together with IOM, we are building a future where our diaspora will be integral to our nation’s progress.” Honourable Mohamed Rahman Swaray, Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, said.
A Voice for the Diaspora
Ms Mercy Ijeoma Oguama, an expert on diaspora affairs, expressed the importance of this new initiative: “Our diaspora is one of Sierra Leone’s greatest assets. By co-chairing the Gender and Youth Technical Working Group (TWG) of the Global Diaspora Policy Alliance (GDPA), we ensure that the voices and expertise of Sierra Leoneans living abroad are heard and included in the development agenda.”
The GDPA aims to unite governments, private sector leaders, academic institutions, and diaspora communities worldwide to co-create solutions to global challenges such as climate change, youth unemployment, and international health crises. For Sierra Leone, this collaboration
is a significant opportunity to showcase the innovative ideas and skills of its diaspora while also providing them with a platform to contribute directly to the country’s development.
A Legacy of Resilience and Innovation
Sierra Leone’s diaspora has long been a source of resilience. During times of crisis, such as the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic, Sierra Leoneans abroad played an instrumental role in providing financial and logistical support. Now, with the country’s increased involvement in global diaspora policy, this support is set to be institutionalized and amplified.
Speaking on behalf of Sierra Leone’s delegation, Mr. Chiblee F. Kamara highlighted the GDPA’s long-term benefits: “This is a turning point for Sierra Leone. We are not only participating but leading the conversation on how diasporas can be a driving force for sustainable development. It’s time to move beyond remittances and think about how our diaspora’s knowledge, skills, and resources can bring transformative change.”
A Gl
obal Movement with Sierra Leone at the Forefront
The GDPA builds on the success of previous global diaspora initiatives, including the 2022 Global Diaspora Summit and the Dublin Declaration. The alliance brings together a diverse group of nations and organizations, from Sierra Leone and the African Union to countries as far-reaching as Georgia, Fiji, and Bangladesh. These stakeholders are committed to integrating diaspora contributions into global development frameworks, focusing on gender equality, youth empowerment, and climate resilience.
For Sierra Leone, the conference in Cape Verde was not just about policy-it was a celebration of the human connections that bind the nation’s citizens, both at home and abroad. The GDPA is expected to pave the way for even greater diaspora engagement, empowering Sierra Leoneans worldwide to actively participate in shaping the future of their country.
The promise of deeper collaboration and engagement was evident as the conference concluded. Sierra Leone’s delegation wi
ll return home with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to ensure that the country’s diaspora plays a central role in driving sustainable development for future generations.
Source: Sierra Leone News Agency