U.S. President Joe Biden has chosen Ham Serunjogi, the CEO of Chipper Cash, to be part of the Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement. This appointment, along with eleven others, shows a strong commitment to building a strong partnership between the United States and Africa.
A White House statement, released yesterday, announced Ham Serunjogi’s appointment as one of the first 12 members of this prestigious Council. The Council’s formation was initially introduced during the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, reaffirming the Biden-Harris Administration’s dedication to strengthening the relationship between the United States and the African Diaspora.
The statement emphasises the crucial role of the African Diaspora in the United States, which comprises both African Americans and African immigrants. This diverse group has played a vital part in shaping the partnership between the two regions in the 21st century. It acknowledges and appreciates the commitment of this community, which includes descendants of enslaved Black Americans, to the well-being of Africa and its people. This dedication has not only strengthened the special bond between the United States and Africa but has also reinforced their common goals.
African diaspora populations include but are not limited to African Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, Afro-Latin Americans, and Black Canadians – descendants of enslaved West Africans brought to the United States, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America during the Atlantic slave trade.
The President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement, established under Executive Order 14089, consists of a maximum of 12 members chosen by the Secretary of State. These appointed members bring a wide range of expertise from fields such as government, sports, creative industries, business, academia, social work, and faith-based activities. Their collective knowledge and diverse experiences are positioned to provide invaluable guidance. Their primary goal is to strengthen the cultural, social, political, and economic connections between the United States and Africa.
Ham Serunjogi, the CEO of Chipper Cash and a co-founder of this African fintech giant, responded to his appointment with humility and enthusiasm. He expressed his deep appreciation for being selected by Secretary of State Blinken, alongside 11 other esteemed leaders, to serve on the Inaugural Presidents Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States.
His role will involve advising President Biden on an array of critical issues, including strategies to strengthen relations between Africa and the United States, fostering trade and investment, and facilitating educational exchanges, among other significant matters.
Serunjogi, who hails from Uganda, highlighted the special chance he has in the Biden-Harris administration to give back for the kindness he has received in the United States. His commitment extends to fortifying the connections between the United States and African communities, both within the U.S. and throughout the African continent. He looks forward to working closely with President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Secretary Blinken, recognizing the enduring significance of this role and honor.
However, this promising initiative is not without its challenges. The Presidents Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement must navigate the diverse views and experiences within the African Diaspora. Striking a balance between the interests and concerns of African Americans and African immigrants while addressing their distinct needs and aspirations is a complex task.
Another major challenge is turning the Council’s well-meaning suggestions into practical policies and actionable steps. This task is demanding in any government setting. To make sure their insights lead to real changes in U.S.-Africa relations and engagement, the Council will have to work closely with policymakers and government agencies.
Furthermore, the constantly changing global landscape presents another challenge. Quick changes in global politics, economic conditions, and international relations require the Council to be flexible and responsive to effectively represent the interests of the African Diaspora.
