From: Shashemene
African Diaspora Rastafarian Development Association
Date: April 18,
2012
For Immediate Release
Returning Home, is the title of
the upcoming seminar for African Ambassadors and other stakeholders
working on the integration of the African Diaspora into Africa. The
seminar will be held on Friday April 27th through Sunday April 29th at
Lilly of the Valley Hotel and Conference Center in Shashemene and is
hosted by the Shashemene African Diaspora Rastafarian Development
Association (SADRDA).
The seminar has been encouraged by the
local government, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Diaspora Directorate and
African Union CIDO office as an important event to share experiences and
ideas which can foster stronger relations and cooperation between
Africans at home and abroad towards Ethiopia/Africa’s development.
Several African Ambassadors from countries such as Ghana and Tanzania
have also lauded the efforts of the Rastafarians who are at the helm of
the seminar on behalf of the African Diaspora in general. Hon. Priest
Paul, President of SADRDA and first Chairman for the Diaspora Ras Tafari
Committee within Kebele 010 in Shashemene states, "We the descendants
of Africans enslaved during the most heinous crime against humanity
known as the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade, have never given up on
returning home. We realize not only our divine right to return home but
our inherent responsibility to help in the development of
Ethiopia/Africa as the slave trade hurt those at home and abroad. We do
this for all the Africans of the world."
Returning Home will
bring together Pan African academicians, activists, artists, business
owners, students and more to discuss some of the challenges and
opportunities faced on the Shashemene Land Grant and beyond as Africans
from the Diaspora strive to strengthen forces with Ethiopians and
Africans in general in realizing our Renaissance. The event will also
bring long needed clarity regarding Shashemene which is the first
recorded attempt of any African country to welcome home Africans from
abroad. The Shashemene land-grant was gifted by Emperor Haile Selassie
in the early 1950's to "Black people of the West" as a show of gratitude
for the outpouring of support by Africans in the Diaspora who stood
with Ethiopia against the fascists Italian invasion in the 1940's. The
land-grant, which was to be administered by the Ethiopian World
Federation, now has over 250 families and businesses established over
the past fifty years and had several civil society organizations who
have built schools and agricultural institutions while working closely
with local government to enhance security, social, cultural and economic
initiatives.
The seminar opens on Friday with registration and
various activities. On Saturday Professor Abiye Ford, well known
academician and Pan African historian, will moderate the panel
discussing legal mechanisms and parliamentary procedures for integration
as well as partnerships and networks towards substantive engagement.
Several African Ambassadors including Tanzania Ambassador His Excellency
Professor Joram M. Biswaro will also give presentations along with the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Diaspora Directorate. Ras Kabinda, a well
known agriculturist and Pan African activist will make a presentation
regarding growth and development, focusing on nation building endeavors.
Dr. Desta Meghoo, a recognized, proficient advisor and organizer within
the movements, is due to deliver the keynote speech, "The Evolution of
Rastafari within the Pan-African Movements". Closing ceremonies are
scheduled for Sunday.
The seminar is open to the public but
seating is limited. Please contact the organizing committee chairman Ras
Tsedai at 251-916821827 or email shashamane123@gmail.com to register
for the event. The media is welcome.
