AUTHOR: Emmanuel Okoye

The question of diaspora responsibility often sparks fervent debate among Africans living abroad and their counterparts on the continent. Beyond the well-documented flow of remittances, a complex web of perceived obligations extends to political engagement, knowledge transfer, cultural preservation, and deeply rooted emotional ties.

Factors such as brain drain, post-colonial disillusionment, dual loyalties, and the vastly varied lived experiences of diaspora members shape this discussion. The core objective is to provoke an honest, nuanced conversation about the true nature of this relationship. It challenges whether "owing" is even the most appropriate framework for discussing the diaspora's role in Africa's development and future.

Perceived Forms of Obligation

Africans abroad frequently encounter a range of expectations, both explicit and implicit, regarding their contributions to their countries of origin. The most commonly discussed form is financial contributions, primarily through remittances. The United Nations (UN) estimates that migrants sent more than $5 trillion to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) over the last decade. This continuous flow often creates an assumption that individuals in the diaspora have a fundamental financial obligation.

Beyond money, there's a strong perceived intellectual debt. Many African nations have invested heavily in the education of individuals who then leave to pursue opportunities abroad, contributing to what is known as "brain drain". Therefore, there is an expectation for these skilled professionals to return or at least engage in knowledge transfer, sharing their expertise to build local capacities. This involves contributing to sectors like healthcare, education, technology, and governance.

A significant political engagement expectation also exists, particularly for those in the diaspora with substantial influence or networks. It is often felt that they should leverage their positions in host countries to advocate for better policies towards Africa or to actively participate in political reform back home. This form of "debt" goes beyond financial aid, touching on issues of advocacy and direct influence. It implies a responsibility to shape the political landscape.

SOURCE: Google

Furthermore, there is a powerful moral obligation to contribute, driven by a sense of shared heritage and identity. This often manifests as an expectation to preserve African cultural practices and traditions, passing them down to new generations in the diaspora. For many, the very act of leaving creates a perceived duty to give back to the communities and systems that raised them, acknowledging the collective effort behind their individual success. This unspoken moral obligation often stems from a deep emotional tie to their homeland.

This moral obligation can extend to championing Africa's narrative globally, countering negative stereotypes, and promoting its diverse cultures and investment opportunities. It implies being an ambassador for the continent, regardless of one's personal circumstances. The expectation that diaspora members act as advocates and cultural custodians adds another layer to their perceived responsibilities. They are seen as guardians of their heritage.

The collective impact of this human capital living abroad is immense, leading to a pervasive sentiment that their skills, networks, and resources belong, in part, to their countries of origin. This creates a psychological burden for many, who constantly weigh their personal aspirations against these societal expectations. The question of how much is "enough" often remains unanswered.

Challenges and Resentments in Contribution

Despite the profound sense of obligation, diaspora members often face significant challenges, limitations, and even resentments when attempting to contribute to their home countries. One major hurdle is widespread corruption and a pervasive lack of transparency in various sectors back home. Many in the diaspora are wary of sending funds or investing in projects that may be diverted or misused, leading to a significant trust deficit. This fear of mismanagement often stifles genuine willingness to engage financially beyond direct family support.

Governance challenges present another formidable barrier.Political instability, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and a lack of clear policy frameworks for diaspora engagement can frustrate even the most committed individuals. Attempts to transfer knowledge or establish businesses can behindered by red tape, favoritism, or a general environment that is unconducive to innovation. These systemic issues make impactful contributions incredibly difficult.

Moreover, xenophobia or resentment from those who remained on the continent can create significant friction. Diaspora members returning or attempting to invest are sometimes viewed with suspicion, as outsiders who "abandoned" their country, or as people who are out of touch with local realities.

SOURCE: Google

The issue of dual loyalties also poses a complex dilemma. Many in the diaspora have built lives, careers, and families in their adopted countries, developing allegiances to their new homes. Balancing these commitments with the perceived demands of their countries of origin can be emotionally and practically draining. This often leads to a feeling of being pulled in multiple directions, making full engagement with either homeland difficult.

The "one size fits all" expectation of contribution fails to acknowledge the diverse lived experiences within the diaspora. Some individuals may be struggling financially, others may have limited networks, and many face their own challenges of integration in their host countries. Imposing blanket obligations can lead to guilt, stress, and a sense of inadequacy among those who cannot meet these often unrealistic expectations. This overlooks the varying capacities and circumstances of individuals.

Finally, the very framing of "owing" can breed resentment, transforming potential goodwill into a burdensome expectation. Many diaspora members argue that their contributions should be viewed as voluntary acts of solidarity or investment, rather than repayment of a debt. This framing can stifle innovation and genuine partnership, replacing enthusiasm with a sense of obligation. It undermines the potential for truly reciprocal relationships.

Evolving Towards Mutual Benefit and Shared Vision

For the relationship between Africans abroad and their countries of origin to evolve, it must move decisively from one of perceived obligation to one of mutual benefit, genuine collaboration, and a truly shared vision for the continent's progress. This shift requires a fundamental re-framing of the diaspora's role, recognizing their potential as partners rather than simply sources of funds or guilt-driven contributions.

African governments must actively create welcoming and enabling environments for diaspora engagement. This includes establishing clear, transparent policy frameworks that streamline investment processes, protect diaspora investments, and facilitate knowledge transfer. The African Union (AU) Commission, for example, has sought consultants to develop engagement plans for the African diaspora. Reducing bureaucratic hurdles builds essential trust.

Beyond mere invitations, there needs to be a strategic focus on capacity building and skills development within home countries, leveraging diaspora expertise. This could involve structured mentorship programs, virtual consultancies, or short-term professional exchanges where diaspora professionals can train local talent.Diaspora communities often possess a wealth of knowledge, skills, and experiences that can be harnessed for the benefit of their countries of origin. This creates true knowledge transfer.

Furthermore, promoting inclusive growth and sustainable development models that directly benefit local communities can incentivize diaspora investment. When diaspora members see tangible, impactful projects that are managed transparently and contribute to societal well-being, their willingness to engage financially and intellectually increases. Investing in areas like renewable energy, digital infrastructure, or agri-business can offer attractive returns alongside social impact. This ensures their contributions are meaningful.

SOURCE: THE HOTJEM

Cultural preservation efforts should be seen as a two-way street, fostering pride and connection rather than a burden.Many Africans in diaspora communities preserve their heritage through festivals, language schools, traditional foods, music, and dance. This strengthens emotional ties and reinforces a sense of belonging for diaspora youth, nurturing their connection to African roots. This transforms cultural expectations into shared celebration.

Finally, the narrative itself needs to change, moving away from "owing" to "belonging" and "building together." Media, educational institutions, and public discourse should celebrate diaspora contributions as part of a largerPan-Africanism vision, highlighting successful partnerships and mutual achievements. This shift in discourse can inspire deeper engagement born out of shared purpose and aspiration, fostering a true shared vision for a prosperous and thriving Africa. It acknowledges the diaspora's diverse experiences and contributions as invaluable assets for collective development.