By Hafsa Obeng, GNA
Accra, Nov. 1, GNA –
The Second Edition of the Africa Dialogue to create an opportunity for Africans
to share the Continent’s story with China and other expatriates has been held
in the Haidian District of Beijing.
Organised by Duapa
Africa, a Social Enterprise in China, the Dialogue aimed at dispelling the existing
misunderstandings and stereotypes about Africa in many countries, of which
China is not an exception, and enlightening investors about the opportunities
for investment, business and partnerships in Africa.
It attracted a
diverse audience with six African speakers and diplomats to promote the
positive image of the Continent and attract the required interest and
investment.
This year’s edition,
on the theme: “This is Africa: A Thriving Hub of Global Talents and Innovation”
focused on Africa’s technology, culture, tourism and people to reshape the
thoughts and perceptions about the Continent.
Mr Edward Boateng,
Ghana’s Ambassador to China, challenged participants to develop themselves,
persist and break boundaries.
He said his
contribution to the positive image and branding of Africa dated back to the
1990’s and 2000’s when he told Africa’s story with the power of media.
“Whilst working with
CNN, I initiated the ‘Inside Africa’ programme; a television segment that
focuses on Africa’s uniqueness and introduced the annual CNN journalist of the
year award; an event that honours great African storytellers. The event also
had great speakers from all parts of Africa (North, Central, Eastern, Western
and Southern).”
Mr Musa Frimpong,
the Founder and CEO of Duapa Africa, expressed joy in realizing his dream of
telling Africa’s unique story in a positive way, saying: “Africa is growing,
Africa has improved, Africa yesterday is totally different from Africa today.”
“With initiatives
such as the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement, Africa is poised for
greatness and it is imperative for young Africans to lead this agenda.”
“Until lions get their historians, the tale of
the hunt shall always glorify the hunter; and therefore, it is important that
we tell our story.”
Mr Frimpong said
that had been the motivation for his team since the inception of the dialogue
last year and congratulated all members of Duapa Africa for their time in
ensuring that the Dialogue was successful.
It is a social
enterprise dedicated to Africa’s socio-economic transformation and sustainable
development through innovative solution.
It is one of the few
wholly owned African social enterprises founded and managed by young Africans
in China.
Diplomats and
dignitaries present included the Kenyan Ambassador to China, Ms. Sarah Serem,
Mr Elisio Benedito Jamine; Senior Political, Peace and Security Officer at the
AU Permanent Mission to China, Mr Edwin Limo; Counsellor at the Kenyan Embassy
in China, and Ms DeSouza Nadege, Counsellor at Benin’s Embassy in China.
Others were Dr Luo
Zhuowei, Deputy Director at the Investment Promotion Centre of the China
Council for the Promotion of International Trade, and Mr Xinliang Zhao, the
Director of Haidian Pioneer Park; host of the event.
GNA
