Participation of the conference

Built long term programme of co-operation between the African Diaspora and the continent

Unfortunately it is not possible to include all those with an interest in Africa and who wish to contribute to the continent’s development.

There is space for only about 150 representatives from the African Diaspora in France and 200 representatives from the rest of Europe.

The Steering Committee which has been established for the Regional Consultative Conference, consisting of representative Embassies from the five regions of Africa and of Diaspora representatives, has endeavoured to identify Diaspora associations with an active interest and proven competence in the development of the continent.

The South African Embassies accredited to the eight other countries have been charged with co-ordinating the participation by the Diaspora based in those countries and have been following a similar process to identify associations to attend and invitations will soon be issued.

It is critical to emphasise that the Regional Consultative Conference on 11 and 12 September is a beginning, not a conclusion, a means and not an end in itself.

What is important is the long term programme of co-operation between the African Diaspora and the continent and the manner in which members of the Diaspora in Europe engage with it over the long term.