Melvin Foote, President of the Constituency for Africa (left); Ambassador of Mali to the United States, Sékou Berthe; and Mama Traore, Executive Director of the US Malian Diaspora and Locals Coalition.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Washington, DC — The US Malian Diaspora and Locals Coalition is proud to announce a pioneering Trade Mission to Mali, scheduled to take place from November 7th to 9th, 2023. Under the theme “Building Ties, Creating Opportunities,” this mission represents a pivotal step toward enhancing bilateral trade between Mali and the United States, fostering economic growth, and stimulating collaboration between diverse industries.
Forging Bilateral Trade Relationships
The primary objective of this mission is to create a dynamic platform where private sectors from Mali and the United States can converge to explore mutual trade opportunities. The Trade Mission will unfold within the prestigious surroundings of the CICB venue in Bamako, Mali.
An Eminent Delegation
This mission features an illustrious delegation of distinguished personalities from various sectors:
- Mama Traore: Executive Director of US Malian Diaspora and Locals Coalition
- Mr. MELVIN PRESCOTT FOOTE: President of the Constituency for Africa (CFA)
- SUSAN SAMALI NAMULINDWA: Founder and Executive Director, Africa Trade Desk, Ottawa, Canada
- Dr. MALCOLM EARL BEECH SR: Co-President, Africa Diaspora Alliance.
- Alexanderia Baker-Haidara: An expert with over ten years of experience in foreign policy, global business, and strategic communications.
- Dr. GASTON MBONGLOU: Director of the Philadelphia Africa Town Project.
- David A. Spaulding: Practice Director at Lenape Legal Ltd.
- Maxwell Adew: Founder and CEO at Kuueza.com.
- Brandie Paison: Waste to Energy Business representative.
- Moses Timothy: Renewable Energy specialist.
- Hui Lim Ang: Former Field Representative, Congressman Joe Heck District 3 Office.
- Juha Junttila: Bio gas Waste to Energy
- Godfrey: Powder Milk Production
This delegation represents a diverse array of expertise poised to contribute to a rich and multifaceted exchange.
A Vision for the Future
Mr. David A. Spaulding, Practice Director at Lenape Legal Ltd., shared his perspective: “We are in the middle of a demographic realignment, and Africans will make up a much greater percentage of the world’s entrepreneurs and workers in coming decades. Joining the Mali Trade Mission allows Lenape Legal Ltd. to partner in West Africa’s future more directly and to identify mutually beneficial transatlantic trade opportunities.”
CFA President Melvin Foote, who was Knighted by the Government of Mali in 2021, thinks the Trade Mission can open the door to improved relations between the United States, Mali and other countries of the Sahel. Said Foote, “Many of the problems in Africa can readily be traced to the legacy of colonialism, slavery and despotic governance on the continent! At the U.S. Africa Summit here in Washington in December, that was attended by nearly 50 countries from Africa, the U.S. government committed to building a new partnership with Africa! Perhaps the most effective way for the U.S. to re-engage with Africa is through “people to people” dialogue! I am hopeful that this trade mission can lead to some fruitful business opportunities for participants, and open the door for improved U.S. – Mali relations!”
Mama Traore, the Executive Director of the US Malian Diaspora and Locals Coalition stated “As we embark on the US Malian Diaspora’s Trade Mission 2023, we are not merely crafting a moment in history; we are authoring a chapter in the story of Mali’s resurgence and the strengthening of our ties with the United States’ private sectors. This mission isn’t just about economic transactions; it’s about forging enduring partnerships that will empower our nation, bolster our economies, and amplify our collective potential.
Through this endeavor, we envision a Mali that shines as a beacon of opportunity, innovation, and prosperity. Our mission transcends borders, reaching across continents, and uniting hearts and minds in a common pursuit of progress.
Together, we are redefining the narrative of Mali, showcasing our determination to transform challenges into opportunities. As we build bridges of understanding and cooperation, we unlock the vast potential that our partnership holds for both Mali and the United States.
Let us embark on this journey with unwavering resolve, knowing that each connection, each agreement, and each idea exchanged is a step toward a brighter, more prosperous future. May the USMDL’s Trade Mission 2023 be a testament to the unyielding spirit of Mali and the enduring friendship between our two nations.”
Creating Opportunities
The mission agenda encompasses insightful discussions, targeted business-to-business (B2B) matchmaking sessions, High level meeting with four (4) Mali’s Ministers, and site visits to explore key sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, healthcare, infrastructure development, and more.
Taking a Step Towards Prosperity
With the enthusiastic support of the Embassy of the United States in Mali, the Minister of Industry and Commerce in Mali, and other esteemed partners, this Trade Mission is poised to facilitate meaningful exchanges and collaboration that will drive economic development and growth in both Mali and the United States.
For more information about the US Malian Diaspora and Locals Coalition Trade Mission and to explore participation opportunities, please visit www.usmaliandiaspora.com.
About US Malian Diaspora and Locals Coalition:
The US Malian Diaspora and Locals Coalition is dedicated to fostering connections between the Malian diaspora, local businesses, and international partners. Through initiatives such as the Trade Mission, the coalition aims to create opportunities for growth, innovation, and partnership while driving economic development in Mali.
Press Contact:
Burama Faye
USMDLC Press Relations
US Malian Diaspora and Locals Coalition
2001 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Email: administration@usmaliandiaspora.com
Direct: (484) 493-4486
Office: (484) 224-7555