About the Summit 

The event will start with Conference and there after Gala Awards. 

About the Conference Theme: The Strategic Role of the African Diaspora in AfCFTA Integration

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a transformative initiative aimed at creating the largest single market in the world, bringing together 1.3 billion people across 55 countries. Its success hinges on collaboration, innovation, and leveraging diverse resources, including the strategic involvement of the African Diaspora.

The African Diaspora, with its expansive network, financial influence, and intellectual capital, is uniquely positioned to accelerate AfCFTA's integration goals. 

Here are key topics where the Diaspora plays a pivotal role:

1.     Investment and Remittances:
The Diaspora contributes billions of dollars annually in remittances to Africa, providing a significant source of capital for businesses, infrastructure, and development projects. By channelling these funds into AfCFTA-aligned ventures, the Diaspora can drive industrialization, entrepreneurship, and regional value chains.

2.     Knowledge Transfer and Skills Development:
With a wealth of expertise in diverse fields such as technology, trade, and governance, the Diaspora can contribute to capacity-building initiatives across the continent. Sharing global best practices and fostering innovation are critical to ensuring AfCFTA’s long-term sustainability and competitiveness.

3.     Market Access and Trade Facilitation:
Diaspora communities act as bridges between Africa and global markets. By promoting African goods and services abroad, they enhance Africa’s trade footprint and facilitate partnerships that align with AfCFTA objectives.

4.     Policy Advocacy and Networking:
Members of the Diaspora often hold influential positions in international organizations and governments. Their advocacy for fair trade policies, investment incentives, and stronger bilateral ties can bolster AfCFTA’s integration efforts.

5.     Cultural Diplomacy and Branding:
The Diaspora plays a key role in reshaping Africa’s global narrative. By celebrating African culture, innovation, and resilience, they enhance the continent’s attractiveness as a trade and investment destination.

To fully harness this potential, structured engagement platforms are essential. Initiatives such as trade expos, business networks, and policy forums can ensure the Diaspora’s contributions are aligned with AfCFTA’s vision. Governments and institutions must also create enabling environments, including incentives for Diaspora investments and streamlined trade processes.

The African Diaspora is not just a stakeholder but a strategic partner in realizing AfCFTA’s promise. By aligning their resources, expertise, and networks with Africa’s trade goals, the Diaspora can help unlock unprecedented opportunities for economic growth, social inclusion, and sustainable development across the continent.

 About the AWE Gala Awards Eligibility 

1.     Be a resident in Europe.

2.     All nominees will be submitted by end of April 2025

3.     AWE will send the nominees confirmation email

4.     Nominees will submit in writing, their acceptance of the nomination and the use of their name, photo and information in connection with the AWE Award. 

5.     Upon notification of nomination, the nominee MUST be prepared to register and be able to attend AWE Award Ceremony where the Awards will be formally presented

6.     Visit our website to be a member (you must be a AWE member Women and Men including Youth) AWE Website www.africanwomenineurope.eu (Membership is free)

7.     Nominees will be announced on AWE website from May 2025. 

Awards Categories 

1.              Diaspora Investment Champion
Recognizing individuals or organizations that have made significant investments in AfCFTA-aligned businesses and industries in Africa.

2.              Diaspora Trade Facilitator Award
Honoring those who have created opportunities to promote African goods and services in global markets, bridging Africa with the world.

3.              Knowledge Transfer Excellence Award
Celebrating contributions in transferring skills, knowledge, and innovation to enhance capacity building and development in Africa.

4.              Diaspora Policy Advocate Award
Acknowledging efforts to influence trade policies, advocate for bilateral agreements, or lobby for AfCFTA-aligned initiatives globally.

5.              Entrepreneurial Impact Award
Highlighting Diaspora entrepreneurs who have established or supported innovative enterprises contributing to regional trade and AfCFTA goals.

6.              Cultural Ambassador Award
Recognizing individuals or groups who have elevated Africa’s global image through cultural diplomacy, art, or storytelling to foster trade and investment.

7.              Sustainable Development Pioneer Award
Honoring initiatives led by the Diaspora that align trade with sustainability, addressing climate change, or promoting inclusive growth.

8.              Global Partnership Builder Award
Celebrating leaders who have fostered partnerships between African and global stakeholders, advancing AfCFTA’s integration.

9.              Innovation and Technology Advocate Award
Acknowledging contributions in leveraging technology to simplify trade, enhance connectivity, or promote innovation in Africa.

10.           Diaspora Youth Leadership Award
Recognizing young Diaspora leaders who are championing AfCFTA-related projects or businesses, demonstrating the future potential of Africa’s integration efforts.

The AWE summit will end with Entertainment