Tag: diaspora

During apartheid, Somalia took in South Africans fleeing from an oppressive government. In recent times, South Africa has had to pay back the favour, taking in Somali refugees running from a civil war. In Johannesburg, particularly, Somalis have found a home in a bustling neighbourhood where their entrepreneurial spirit can thrive: Mayfair.

The African academic diaspora can contribute positively to the continent – by offering their skills and expertise, or training young academics – especially if they partner up with African universities, writes Osabuohien P. Amienyi.

Brand South Africa's Play Your Part / Sowetan Dialogues is headed for Durban on 29 May, with the focus on Africa's contribution toward South Africa's fight against apartheid.

The African diaspora, estimated at nearly 170-million people with ties to the continent living and working in the US and Europe, send over US$60-billion home every year, money that builds local African economies and reduces dependence on foreign aid.

The concept of ubuntu is complex, and is difficult to nail down. There is some consensus though, that it relates to how one operates in the world on a moral and humanitarian level. Practised with the good of all in mind, it can help individuals and the community.
• Hiking across South Africa to find ubuntu

When Africa sings, we listen. When she dances, we watch in awe. And, when she plays her favourite game, the fields light up with her dazzling colours - Feel the beat at Africa's feet!

There's been a lot of talk about branding lately - branding of countries and even of continents. The recent visit to Ghana by US President Barack Obama set off another debate about how Africa is perceived, both within and outside the continent, and whether Brand Africa can ever be repositioned.