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Leon H. Sullivan Foundation calls for summit participation
2008-05-11 11:21:46
By Lucas Lukumbo
The Leon H. Sullivan Foundation has sent a passionate appeal to the international community and especially `friends and dispersed descendents of Africa` to join the historic journey to Arusha for the eighth Leon H. Sullivan Summit to be held between June 2 and 6 this year.
``It is time that we as African-Americans take a stand and become more proactive with the future of Africa,`` stated Summit Convenor Hope Masters and daughter of the late Reverend Sullivan has said through the foundation`s network, adding: ``It is our duty not to be bystanders to our ancestral home. I guarantee that anyone who takes this voyage with us will be forever changed and inspired.``
Around 30 African heads of state are expected to attend the august meeting and President Jakaya Kikwete who will host the meeting has recently said he was confident that the city of Arusha would provide the appropriate setting for the meeting.
``Africa is so rich in resources and promise and that Africa’s sons and daughters throughout the world, can collectively contribute to the development of its future to achieve economic stability,`` the forum quoted President Kikwete as saying.
The Leon H. Sullivan Summits bring together the world’s political and business leaders, delegates representing national and international civil and multinational organizations, and members of academic institutions aimed at focusing attention and resources on Africa’s economic and social development.
The Summit, founded by the late Reverend Leon H. Sullivan, is rooted in the belief that the development of Africa is a matter of global partnerships.
Because it was particularly important to Reverend Sullivan that the African Diaspora and ``Friends of Africa`` remain active participants in the continent`s ongoing development, the Summit will bring together Heads of State, government Ministers, entrepreneurs, civil society, NGOs and academics to dialogue and take action on relevant issues facing the continent.
The summit would focus on education, investment, environmental sustainability, power, infrastructure, and tourism.
In addition to the workshops, galas, receptions and Presidential state dinner, summit delegates who will fly on the official Summit charter will enjoy a daylong safari to the Ngorongoro Crater.
At Summit’s end, the charter will head to Zanzibar Island, for a full day of exploration and relaxation. The President of Zanzibar, Amani Karume will host a special event that evening.
Their mission was inspired by Rev. Leon H. Sullivan`s belief that the development of Africa is a matter of global partnerships.
It was particularly important to Rev. Sullivan that Africa`s Diaspora and friends of Africa are active participants in Africa`s development.
The Sullivan Summits are organized by the Leon H. Sullivan Foundation and held biennially in an African nation to highlight key issues and best practices, stimulate discussion and define opportunities, promote private enterprise and foster high-level strategic partnerships.
Creative and innovative initiatives emerge out of discussions and negotiations at the Summits and new relationships are brokered in order to make those initiatives a reality.
The Sullivan Summits are a bridge between America and Africa, serving as a forum for economic and cultural cooperation.
As Africa needs partners, who can bring skills, expertise and resources to the problems and challenges it faces and defines, it is through these partnerships that Africa can realize its full potential.
Notables who have participated in past Summits have included among others, Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, General Colin Powell, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Reverend Al Sharpton and the late Coretta Scott King.
Celebrities including Chris Tucker, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Cicely Tyson and Dick Gregory also have attended past Summits.
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