President Joe Biden has selected Chipper Cash CEO, Ham Serunjogi, to join his Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement. Serunjogi was selected alongside eleven others which also include two Nigerian-Americans; Osagie Imasogie and Chinenye Joy Ogwumike.
A White House statement, released on Tuesday, disclosed that the Chipper Cash CEO is one of the inaugural 12 members of the Council. This Council was established as a significant commitment announced by Vice President Kamala Harris, on behalf of the Biden-Harris Administration during the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. The council’s goal is to promote dialogue between U.S. officials and the African Diaspora.
The statement emphasized that the African Diaspora in the United States, consisting of African Americans and African immigrants, plays a foundational role in the 21st-century partnership between the United States and Africa. It also noted that this community, which includes descendants of enslaved Black Americans, has long championed the prosperity of Africa and its people, thereby strengthening the special relationship between the United States and Africa.
The President’s Advisory Council on African diaspora engagement
The White House unveiled the composition and selection criteria for the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement. This Council, established in accordance with Executive Order 14089, comprises up to 12 members appointed by the Secretary of State.
The Council comprises a wide spectrum of experts and accomplished members, hailing from various fields such as government, sports, creative industries, business, academia, social work, and faith-based activities. Their collective knowledge and experience are expected to play a pivotal role in providing valuable guidance to strengthen cultural, social, political, and economic ties between the United States and Africa.
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Chipper Cash CEO responds to the appointment
In response to his appointment, Ham Serunjogi, also the Cofounder of the African fintech giant, took to his X handle and wrote:
“I am deeply moved and humbled to share that I have been appointed by Secretary of State Blinken, along with a very distinguished group of 11 other leaders, to serve on the Inaugural President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States. I look forward to advising President Biden on a range of issues, including how to strengthen relations between Africa and the United States, promoting trade and investment, and building educational exchanges, among other issues.”
Ham Serungoji elaborated that his role in the Biden-Harris administration as a representative of the African Diaspora provides a distinctive chance to reciprocate the generosity he has received from the country, a sentiment widely echoed.
This role also entails dedicated efforts to fortify the connections between the United States and African communities, not only within the U.S. but also spanning the African continent. Serunjogi also expressed his anticipation of close collaboration with President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Secretary Blinken. He emphasized that this responsibility and honour will leave a lasting, heartfelt impact.
The White House has revealed the roster of other Council members, featuring a distinguished group of individuals. Among them are Silvester Scott Beaman from Delaware, who serves as the Chair, and Mimi E. Alemayehou from Washington, D.C., as a Member. The Council also includes Rosalind Brewer from Georgia, Viola Davis from Rhode Island, Helene D. Gayle from Georgia, Patrick Hubert Gaspard from New York, C.D. Glin from Connecticut, Osagie Imasogie from Pennsylvania, Almaz Negash from California, Chinenye Joy Ogwumike from Texas, and Kevin Young from Washington, D.C.
Possible challenges ahead
The President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement is likely to face several challenges in its mission.
The task of navigating the rich tapestry of diverse perspectives and experiences within the African Diaspora. Balancing the interests and concerns of African American and African immigrant communities is an intricate endeavor as addressing the unique needs and aspirations of these groups while fostering unity can be a complex balancing act.
Another substantial challenge lies in the implementation of policies derived from the Council’s advisory role. Transforming well-intentioned recommendations into effective policies and actionable measures can be demanding in any governmental context. The Council will need to work closely with policymakers and agencies to ensure that its insights translate into tangible changes in U.S.-Africa relations and engagement.
The ever-changing nature of global dynamics presents yet another challenge. Global politics, economic conditions, and international relations can evolve swiftly. The Council must remain adaptable and responsive to these shifting landscapes as developments on the global stage can have significant repercussions for U.S.-Africa relations. Navigating these dynamic waters will require vigilance and agility.
Additionally, resource allocation poses a challenge for the Council’s initiatives. Implementing programs such as educational exchanges and economic development efforts necessitates the allocation of financial and logistical resources. This can be particularly demanding within the context of budget constraints and competing national priorities, requiring prudent management and creative solutions to maximize the impact of these initiatives.
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