---

Kenya – [January 21, 2025]

The Pan-African Council and the University of Nairobi’s (UoN) Department of Diplomacy and International Studies have executed a Collaboration Agreement. This agreement formalizes a shared commitment to identifying and pursuing priority areas of cooperation, thereby strengthening institutional collaboration in the pursuit of common objectives. Specifically, the agreement aims to facilitate enhanced cooperation through joint initiatives encompassing dialogues, conferences, training programs, and research endeavors. The established framework delineates the following areas of cooperative engagement:

I. RESEARCH STUDIES & CONFERENCES

• Interdisciplinary Research: Undertake research and studies on any issues related to Pan African and Diaspora Affairs, Conflict Management, Peace and Security in Africa while observing international research principles and standards. Encourage collaborative research projects that bridge various academic disciplines to address complex Pan-African issues;
• Knowledge Sharing, Policy Advisory and Dissemination: Facilitate the exchange of research findings and best practices through publications, workshops, and online platforms. Generate policy interventions that form the basis for advising government and nongovernmental agencies on Pan Africa and Diaspora Affairs;
• Experiential: Organize joint conferences, symposia, courses, workshops and seminars in relation to Pan Africa and Diaspora Affairs. Organization of academic and scientific activities such as workshops, courses and seminars;
• Data Collection and Analysis: Establish joint data collection initiatives and analytical frameworks to inform evidence-based policies and interventions.; and
• Collaborate on any other areas of cooperation in the field of Pan Africa and Diaspora Affairs to be mutually agreed upon.

LEADERSHIP CAPACITY BUILDING & OUTREACH

• Global Engagement: The University of Nairobi, Institute of Diplomacy and International studies through its Pan African and Diaspora Centre, shall serve as the liaison office for the Pan-African Council in Kenya. In this capacity, the Centre shall serve as a point of contact for the Council’s outreach, coordination, and implementation of Pan-African initiatives within Kenya. Simultaneously, the Council’s global network of offices and representatives will support the Centre’s global representation and influence by helping it foster partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders;
• Co-Creation & Fundraising: Organize joint fundraising through proposal writing to achieve the objectives of the Agreement and the co-creation of innovation solutions together to solve problems/exploit opportunities identified;
• Exchange Programs: Facilitate and endeavour to create educational and cultural exchange programs to promote intercultural understanding and appreciation; and,
• Promotion of other academic activities which enhance the mentioned goals herein

LEADERSHIP, STUDENT, AND STAFF CAPACITY BUILDING

• Leadership Development: Build the capacity of trainers of trainers to effect wider outreach at the grassroots level on peaceful coexistence and resilience against conflict. Organize leadership training programs for young African leaders to equip them with the skills and knowledge to drive positive change in Africa and regions of the Diaspora;
• Mentorship and Coaching: endeavour to establish mentorship and coaching opportunities to support the professional development of students, faculty, and staff;
• Capacity building for students through internships, attachments, and scholarships;
• Capacity building for research and technology development and through technical and executive courses;
• Curriculums development to support training on Pan African and Diaspora studies; and,
• Conduct Training Needs Assessment of various sections of the society that need capacity enhancement.

About the University of Nairobi Department of Diplomacy and International Studies

The Departments aim is to be a leading regional and international Centre of scholarly excellence in Diplomacy and International Studies; and, to advance the pursuit of knowledge through relevant and quality research, publications, teaching, training and consultancy in various areas of International Studies, Diplomacy, International Conflict Management and Strategic Studies.

---

---

Virtual – [December 5, 2024]

In preparation for the Education for Africa Dialogic Summit (EADiS), the Pan-African Council has partnered with Global Impact Industries and Africa Voices Dialogue to launch a virtual summit this December 6, 2024, which will culminate in a 3-day in-person summit and 2-day excursion in Nairobi, Kenya, or Johannesburg, South Africa, from May 26–30, 2025. The initiative will focus on the historical and educational connections between HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) and African institutions, aiming to deepen Pan-African integration within academic departments, leadership, and students. This effort will foster a global network of Pan-African scholars and advocates across the U.S., Africa, the Caribbean, and the broader Diaspora.

The panel will feature vibrant discussions between leaders from African universities and HBCUs, focusing on strategies to champion the African education agenda globally. Building on the momentum of the recent Education for Africa Dialogic Summit, this initiative aims to lay the foundation for lasting partnerships in support of Pan-African education and connecting with the broader global diaspora community.

Project objectives include:

1. Bridge Pan-African History with HBCUs
   This panel will highlight the historical ties between Pan-Africanism and HBCUs, creating an avenue for
   educational institutions from the U.S. and Africa to integrate and collaborate. This will support the shared
   vision of uniting African and African American students and scholars in the global academic community.
2. Facilitate E-HBCU Panel with Academic Leadership and Students
   Host a virtual event scheduled on December 6, 2024. The event will focus on leadership from various
   academic departments, allowing both faculty and students to discuss important issues, exchange ideas,
   and develop strategies for long-term cooperation.
3. Invite 14 HBCU and African Universities Speakers
   Representatives from at least four HBCUs will be invited to speak on the history and future of Pan-
   Africanism in education while discussing potential collaborations with African universities.
4. Invite Key Agencies, Global Diaspora and Key Leaders
   Representatives from key agencies will be invited to speak on the resources, private sector
   emerging market commitments of HBCUs, while discussing potential collaborations with African
   universities.
5. Engage African Universities
   African universities within our existing network will be invited to participate. This will strengthen
   existing relationships and open opportunities for future partnerships.
6. Provide High-Level Administration and Support
   We will provide specialized administrative support throughout the event. This includes recommending
   and securing relevant HBCU panelists who are influential in Pan-Africanism and global education.

RSVP link: https://www.bit.ly/AVD_31

---

---

SOUTH AFRICA  —

Context

The Boipatong massacre, a brutal attack in 1992 that claimed 45 lives and left lasting scars on the South African township, serves as a stark reminder of the country’s turbulent past. This tragic event continues to resonate with the Boipatong community, where survivors grapple with profound loss and economic hardship.

Recognizing the resilience of the Boipatong community, particularly a group of skilled seamstresses, the Colombian Embassy, in collaboration with the Pan-African Council, embarked on a commendable initiative. Ambassadors Maria del Rosario Mina Rojas and Monde Mshudulu identified these women and generously donated sewing machines to empower their craft. This act of support aimed to provide economic opportunities and foster self-sufficiency within the community.

A Collaborative Effort for Upliftment

To further strengthen this initiative, a pivotal meeting took place at Vaal University of Technology (VUT). Ambassador Rojas and Mr. Mshudulu explored potential partnerships with VUT’s Fashion Design department. Professor Kehla Ndlovu, Vice-Chancellor of VUT, welcomed the collaboration and envisioned an expanded program. This program would not only equip the Boipatong seamstresses with essential skills but also create exchange programs with Colombian universities, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

The Colombian designer, Laura Laurens, who was captivated by a Boipatong fashion show held in October 2023, further bolstered the initiative. With the combined efforts of the Colombian Embassy, the Pan-African Council, and VUT, the sewing machine donation took place on February 21st, 2024. Professor Ndlovu’s optimism regarding the project’s potential for positive impact on the Boipatong community, VUT, and beyond, resonates throughout this collaborative effort. The potential exchange programs with Colombian universities hold the promise of fostering long-lasting connections and shared learning opportunities.

More details on the VUT website.

---

 

---

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA, USA  —

The Pan-African Council (PAC) recently participated in Johnson C. Smith University‘s Lyceum Engagement Series on February 22nd, 2024, highlighting its mission to collaborate with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in supporting Pan-African development.

“There’s a significant number of developments happening across Africa, and diverse nationalities are involved, however African-Americans are underrepresented,” stated Fabien Anthony, Chairman of the PAC, according to the QCity Metro interview. Joining Anthony at the Lyceum luncheon were Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) and founder of the SEED Project (a youth leadership development program through basketball), and Her Royal Highness Princess Tirelo Molotlegi of South Africa’s Royal Bafokeng Nation.

The forum aimed to dispel misconceptions and inaccurate information about Africa, while showcasing its positive developments. “Our goal is to demonstrate the opportunities available to JCSU,” said Anthony. “We are keen to explore avenues for expanding global education, facilitating student exchange programs, and collaborating with Mr. Fall and the Princess’ initiatives.”

Princess Molotlegi addressed sustainable community development and educational development, while Mr. Fall discussed opportunities for student-athletes.

A Sports-Oriented Approach

Mr. Fall emphasized his mission of fostering a stronger connection between the BAL and Black Americans. Following the BAL’s launch in 2021, there has been some American participation, including celebrity entertainer J. Cole. This trend has steadily increased year after year. The BAL’s partnership with the NBA has accelerated the league’s growth in its short lifespan of three years. Recognizing basketball’s global appeal, Mr. Fall seeks to capitalize on this popularity by engaging HBCU players.

“We want to make the BAL an option for basketball players to continue their careers. A player from JCSU can look at us and see us as an option,” he stated.

A 2020 study by the National College Athletic Association (NCAA) revealed that only 1.2% of college basketball players are drafted by the NBA annually. This percentage shrinks further each year due to the increasing number of international players entering the draft.

Over 20% of college basketball players pursue professional careers internationally or in the NBA’s G-League, its developmental league. The rapidly growing BAL presents another promising avenue for college basketball players to pursue professional aspirations.

Mr. Fall expressed his hope that this message will resonate with potential players from JCSU and other HBCUs.

Looking Forward

As reported by QCity Metro, Mr. Anthony indicated that the PAC will continue exploring avenues to connect with HBCUs and the African American community, aligning with its existing initiatives such as trade forums and youth engagement programs.

In 2022, the Council supported the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum, fostering collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean Islands through knowledge sharing on investments, trade, climate change, health, and more. Beyond event coordination, PAC offers youth mentorship and development programs, along with grants and programs that enhance youth access to education, development skills, mentorship, and sustainability initiatives.

“There’s been significant past discourse about organizations developing Pan-African engagement,” concluded Mr. Anthony. “The Council is here to demonstrably taking action.”

---

 

---

LUSAKA, ZAMBIA  —

Preliminary Meeting on the 3rd Session of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent

Back to the Roots: A Pan-African Approach in Fostering an African Renaissance

Date: March 25-27, 2024

Location: Lusaka, Zambia
Venue: The Quorum

Implementing partners: International Coalition for People of African Descent (ICPAD), Pan-African Council (PAC), African Union ECOSOCC, Panda Africa (Zambia), Articulación Latinoamericana para el Decenio Afrodescendiente (ALDA), Black and African Diaspora Program (BAFD) – Dalhousie University, Centre for Research on Latin America and the Caribbean (CERLAC), Baobab Centro de Innovación en Justicia Racial, de Género y Ambiental (Colombia), Plateforme Haïtienne de Plaidoyer pour un Développement Alternatif (PAPDA), Frantz Fanon Foundation (Martinique/France).

The aim of the preliminary meeting is to:

• Strengthen and expand ICPAD and its members, that will meet in person or online before each United Nations Permanent Forum of People of African Descent session to create a working plan and identify key objectives as part of civil society contribution;
• Foster knowledge exchange to promote inclusive and holistic policy recommendations and decision-making capabilities;
• Develop an effective grassroots-driven network that has the tools and resources to support people of African descent globally in dealing with human rights violations and dignity.

For more information and to register for the event, kindly visit: http://panafricancouncil.org/LUSAKA2024.

 

---

---

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA, USA  —

The Pan-African Council and Johnson C. Smith University – JCSU join forces in Charlotte, North Carolina for the university’s Lyceum Engagement Series on February 22nd, 2024.

The engaging panel discussion will include Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League (BAL) and founder of the SEED Project who will speak on the significance of sports, youth, and basketball as a socioeconomic driver across Africa; Her Royal Highness Princess Tirelo Molotlegi of South Africa’s Royal Bafokeng Nation who will speak on sustainable community development and the empowerment of youth and girls; and our very own Chairman, Mr Fabien Anthony of the Pan-African Council who will discuss meaningful Africa-Diaspora engagement, impact investments, and fostering economic and social prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.

The panel will be followed by a Q&A period where students, alumni, staff, and other participants will ask questions relating to the discussion and possibilities for expanding global education, partnerships, and collaboration. Most importantly, the event will aim to explore further partnership opportunities in the aforementioned areas to further support Historically Black Colleges and Universities’ (HBCUs’) engagement with the rapid developments happening across the Africa continent.

---

---

NAIROBI, KENYA  —

The Pan-African Council is pleased to announce the signature of a strategic partnership agreement with Effortless Insight Africa for The Future of Education & Work in Africa (FEWA) Conference 2024.

The partnership will be instrumental in facilitating engagement with various international institutions, investor delegations and companies across the continent and the Diaspora. The conference anticipates diverse delegations of government officials, Educationists, entrepreneurs and investors from different regions keen on investing in Education innovation and Technology in Africa. It will be held at The Edge Convention Centre Nairobi April 16 to 18 in 2024. The signing between myself and the chair of the council,Fabien Anthony was witnessed by College of insurance CEO Dr. Ben Kajwang and College of Insurance/Edge Centre Head of ICT Abiud Ogechi

---

---

PAC Ambassador to Brazil, Mr. Rodrigo Faustino, alongside the special advisor to the Government for the Campos Prefecture in Brazil, Mr. Rogerio Siqueira have established a cooperation framework for educational exchange in the sciences and humanities with the Republic of Colombia.

As reported by the Brazilian newspaper Folha1, the Brazilian delegation lead the negotiation with Senator Murillo Benitez and Cezar Cabezas for the establishment of the Campos-Colombia project with the interchange of universities and the inclusion of scholarships especially focused on the African Diaspora in both Colombia and Brazil.

The cooperative framework will be followed-up in April, with an official visit from the Colombia delegation to the cities of Campos and Río de Janeiro. For the original Portuguese-language publication, click here.

Pan-African Council Ambassadors visit the city of Salvador da Bahia in Brazil to volunteer for a youth development organization inspired by African spiritual and healing tradition:

---

In the forgotten outskirts of Brazil’s third largest city, Salvador da Bahia, one can hear the rhythms and laughter of a young generation yearning for their place in the modern world. The visitor would be surprised to encounter a deep intellectual discourse flourishing in an area seemingly plagued by poverty and drug-related violence. It is in this very setting that Joselito Crispim created a nonprofit in 1991 that goes by the name of “Bagunçaço.” At just 21 years old, Joselito embarked on a mission to make the young people of his community proud of their origins. Now, over 20 years later, his organization helps educate young children and adolescents by providing access to a library of books, skill-building classes, film production workshops, physical activities, cultural exchange opportunities, and music education.

Joselito’s Bangunçaço serves a community center, or better yet a training facility, that relies on a team of volunteers and sponsors to run its activities efficiently. Ranging from 6 to 18 years old, the 140 participants are immersed in a community where they are encouraged to treat each other as brothers, sisters, i.e. a unified family. The project aims to strengthen the self-esteem of children and inspire a passion for learning and fraternity. The parents of these children face harsh economic conditions in a hostile environment where the state public school system failed to properly educate or provide for their children. During my first visit to the center I was proudly greeted by the eldest of the children who were eager to show me their latest creation – an independent film, recorded, scripted, and edited by the children themselves. In the room next door, I observed the children giving voice and rhythm to improvised instruments made of old drums and cans that were once considered garbage in the streets. And just outside the center, groups of children were forming to practice Capoeira (an Afro-Brazilian martial art) and others were preparing for a football match. Officially, the center’s closing hour is at 6:00pm sharp; however, the children are often so filled with energy that they perch themselves at the entrance deep into the night to rehearse the things they have learned that very same day.

This month, Joselito invited and accommodated twenty Danish students of the same age group in a weeklong cultural exchange. Despite the cultural and language barriers between these children from two very different parts of the world, they were assigned a clearly defined mission: to prepare a joint musical performance for the community. Joselito is an educator in the purest sense of the word. The guiding principals of the Bangunçaço project are founded in the values he acquired in his practice of Candomblé: an African spiritual and healing tradition that spread to Brazil during the slave trade, where people live in close communities that mutually help each other and develop responsibilities to serve their communities. His philosophy provides a basis for a new social organization, prepared to transform young adults into the future of Brazil, one mind at a time.