Beyond the Year of Return in Ghana, there is a new initiative called “Beyond the Return” that aims to continue and expand the connections between people of African descent from all over the world. This 10-year project, with the theme “A decade of African Renaissance – 2020-2030,” is built on seven pillars that will provide a platform for engagements and collaborations among people of African descent, regardless of where they currently reside.
The first pillar of Beyond the Return is Pan-African Heritage Worldview. This pillar seeks to strengthen and promote the understanding and appreciation of African history, culture, and heritage. It aims to reclaim and showcase the rich and diverse contributions of people of African descent to the global community. By doing so, it hopes to foster a sense of pride and self-awareness among individuals and communities, while also challenging stereotypes and misconceptions.
The second pillar is Investment and Business Development. Beyond the Return recognizes the economic potential of the African diaspora and seeks to facilitate investment and business opportunities. It aims to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurship, trade, and investment, with a focus on sectors such as tourism, technology, agriculture, and creative arts. By leveraging the skills, resources, and networks of the diaspora, this pillar aims to drive economic growth and development across the African continent.
The third pillar is Skills and Capacity Building. Beyond the Return aims to promote educational and professional development opportunities for people of African descent. It seeks to bridge the skills gap by providing training, mentorship, and other capacity-building initiatives. This pillar recognizes the importance of equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in today’s global economy.
The fourth pillar is Innovation and Technology. Beyond the Return acknowledges the transformative potential of technology and aims to harness it for the benefit of people of African descent. It seeks to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and the adoption of digital technologies. By doing so, it hopes to drive sustainable development and create opportunities for individuals and communities in various sectors.
The fifth pillar is Diaspora Pathways to Citizenship. Beyond the Return recognizes the challenges and barriers faced by people of African descent in accessing citizenship and nationality rights. It aims to promote inclusive policies and legal frameworks that facilitate the acquisition of citizenship and the enjoyment of full rights and privileges. This pillar seeks to address issues of statelessness, discrimination, and exclusion, while also fostering a sense of belonging and identity.
The sixth pillar is Cultural Exchange and Tourism. Beyond the Return acknowledges the power of cultural exchange and tourism in fostering understanding, appreciation, and connection. It aims to promote tourism as a means of showcasing the beauty, diversity, and vibrancy of African cultures and destinations. By facilitating cultural exchanges, festivals, and events, this pillar seeks to create opportunities for people of African descent to connect and engage with their ancestral roots.
The seventh pillar is Healthcare, Wellness, and Retirement. Beyond the Return recognizes the importance of healthcare, wellness, and retirement planning for individuals and communities. It aims to promote access to quality healthcare services, wellness programs, and retirement planning resources. This pillar seeks to address the specific health needs and challenges faced by people of African descent, while also promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
Beyond the Return is a comprehensive and ambitious project that aims to build upon the success of the Year of Return in Ghana. It seeks to strengthen connections, foster collaborations, and promote the well-being and development of people of African descent across the globe. Through its seven pillars, it aims to address a wide range of issues and create opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive and contribute to the African Renaissance.