From Migrants to Key Stakeholder of Africa
Mission Statement
The African migrant community in Germany and abroad, are vital stakeholders in Africa’s development and future. Through remittances, they provide one of the continent’s most stable and significant sources of external financing, often surpassing official development aid. These funds support millions of households, strengthen local economies, improve access to education and healthcare, and serve as seed capital for small businesses and community projects.
Founder & Vision
Initiated and Founded in 2007 by Susan Enih Tatah, a Cameroon-born migrant, the Afrika Festival Tübingen (AFTÜ) positions African migrant communities in Germany and Europe as strategic stakeholders in Africa’s development.
The Festival recognizes the African diaspora as co-owners of Africa’s present and future, with legitimate economic, social, cultural, and political agency. It reframes diaspora engagement not as charity, but as structured partnership grounded in shared responsibility, identity, and long-term development goals.
Through cultural diplomacy, civic dialogue, and community-led initiatives, AFTÜ advances a model of diaspora participation that strengthens transnational cooperation, social cohesion, and sustainable Africa–Europe relations.
– Susan Enih Tatah
OBJECTIVES
Beyond financial contributions, African migrants transfer knowledge, skills, networks, and innovation. They act as cultural ambassadors, policy advocates, investors, and bridge-builders between Africa and the world. We – The African Diaspora professionals contribute to capacity-building, mentorship, trade, technology transfer, and social entrepreneurship, while also shaping global narratives about Africa.
Economic Development & Financial Stability
African migrants contribute significantly through remittances, investments, entrepreneurship, and trade links. These flows support household livelihoods, reduce poverty, finance education and healthcare, and stimulate local economies. Diaspora-led investments also help grow SMEs and strengthen Africa’s private sector.
Human Capital Development & Knowledge Transfer
Migrants play a critical role in skills transfer, innovation, mentorship, and capacity-building. Professionals in health, education, technology, arts, and science contribute expertise, support institutions, and help bridge skills gaps through training, partnerships, and return or circular migration.
Social Cohesion, Culture & Identity Promotion
African migrants act as cultural ambassadors, preserving and promoting African heritage, values, languages, and creative industries globally. Through festivals, media, education, and advocacy, they strengthen Pan-African identity and foster unity between the continent and its diaspora.
Governance, Advocacy & Global Representation
Migrant communities influence policy, diplomacy, and global narratives about Africa. They advocate for fair migration policies, democratic governance, peacebuilding, and inclusive development, while empowering African voices in international institutions and host countries.
“Where Africans migrate, Africa gains; through capital, skills, culture, and global influence.”