From Shared Roots to Shared Futures: Strengthening Ties Across the Black Diaspora

July 1, 2026

EMY Africa, a 10-year-old platform dedicated to uplifting the African continent through collaboration and storytelling, held its first U.S. event in Washington D.C. on June 25 at the National Museum of African Art. Founded by Ghanaian businessman Daniel "Kojo" Soboh, the organization brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and diplomats to strengthen connections within the African diaspora and combat long-standing stereotypes about the continent. The event highlighted Washington's significant African community while addressing economic disparities, including the city's 10.

Who is affected

African diaspora communities in Washington D.C. and globally
Business leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and diplomats attending the soirée
Black-owned businesses in Washington D.C. (comprising 15% of city businesses)
Unemployed Black residents in D.C. (10.3% unemployment rate vs 3% for white residents)
U.S. Shadow Representative Oye Owolewa and the African community he represents
Lisa Kunney, international business development strategist of Ghanaian descent
EMY Africa founder Daniel "Kojo" Soboh and his organization
Future generations of the African diaspora

What action is being taken

EMY Africa is hosting the inaugural Washington D.C. Soirée to build diasporic bridges
The platform is championing African excellence and amplifying its global influence
EMY Africa is expanding its international activation to U.S. soil for the first time
Owolewa is working to increase African diaspora representation in D.C.'s contract awards and procurement process
Attendees are investing in collaboration across business, creativity, investment, technology, and cultural exchange
Community members are focusing on finding solutions around federal government obstacles

Why it matters

This initiative matters because it addresses critical economic disparities affecting the African diaspora, particularly in Washington D.C., which leads the nation in both Black business ownership and unemployment, with severe racial gaps (10.3% Black unemployment versus 3% white unemployment). The gathering represents a strategic effort to transform historical and cultural connections into concrete economic collaboration, potentially impacting the $6 billion in annual contracts where diaspora representation remains low. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the event signifies a pivotal moment for the African diaspora to build economic power, challenge persistent stereotypes about Africa, and create intergenerational wealth and opportunity after 407 years on American soil, with only 161 years of freedom from enslavement.

What's next

Increasing African diaspora involvement with D.C. government contracts and procurement opportunities
Rehiring D.C. natives and strengthening the local economy
Mentoring younger generations within the diaspora
Combining resources among African communities
Continuing to amplify authentic African stories on the global stage
Finding solutions to work around what Owolewa describes as federal government opposition to diaspora efforts

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer