Opinion
Part 1: A Viable Development Model for the Black World and Diaspora
Again, this does not mean that we have gone soft. Being abroad is very endearing – in spite of all the negative things that come with it. While we might miss our relatives and although the rest of our elementary school classmates continue to increase this footprint in places that ought to be ours, we also have a role to play at home. After all, we in the Diaspora contribute a significant portion to our respective countries.
In recognition of this, various countries – from the Caribbean to Africa [and even in states like Haiti, Somalia and Djibouti], a constant is the Diaspora outreach projects sanctions by governments.
Reasons aside, the rationale for people going home is twofold: First, it combats the brain drain scenario various “third world” countries have to deal with, and secondly, it can fundamentally force the home countries themselves to deal with a whole section of returnees.
A new class of vocal people can be good for the socio-economic environment of the various countries. Not only are these returnees sometimes a little more eloquent than the friends and relatives they left behind months or years ago: They are now considered a little more polished. They are a challenge to the status quo. And sometimes, this is what can make development happen faster.
To be continued…
Dennis Matanda
Editor – [email protected]
