Each individual has a different reason for wanting to return home- maybe they miss their family and want more space, or maybe they want better education opportunities for their children. Essentially, the idea of "going home" has become appealing enough that it is something African-Americans are now taking into consideration as they make life-changing decisions.
In fact, according to a report by the National Bureau of Economic Research, African-Americans are now returning to Africa at a higher rate than any other racial or ethnic group. The study found that from 2000-2010, the number of African-Americans leaving has increased from 120,000 in 2008 to more than 150,000 in 2010.
The rise in the African-American movement back home can be chalked up to several factors. For one, it may be part of a larger trend toward assimilation and multiculturalism that has followed the election of the first mixed-race president in the U.S.
The "African comeback" is also tied to increasingly favorable economic conditions in African countries compared to economic stagnation (or worse) at home. The economy in Africa has been growing at a faster rate than the United States, China, and India, and has been a favored investment opportunity for American businessmen.
Furthermore, as opinion on desegregation begins to shift and public figures like Oprah Winfrey invest in Africa, immeasurable political and economic opportunities have been opening up on the continent.
For example, last year, a group of African-Americans who had just returned from Kenya shared their insights and experiences with the audience of a TEDx event in Los Angeles. They suggested that it was important to invest heavily in Africa to get Americans involved in its growth. In particular, they emphasized that partnering with Africa gave them an opportunity to restore and revive their sense of heritage.
"I think there's a lot of Africans on the continent that are doing great work and we can support them by being more involved," said Anzia Yeboah, MBA Student at UCLA Anderson School of Management. migration patterns are sure to follow suit. The social justice argument for wanting to live on this continent is beginning to fade as a seemingly more attractive option succeeds it: going back "home. become increasingly popular in recent years. Secondly, it may be a result of generational shifts as younger African immigrants are getting closer to their roots by returning home more frequently.
What should African Americans consider before moving to Africa?
- Don’t bring all the “comforts of home” with you - Africa is a totally different environment compared to the United States. Moving from the U.S. to any country in Africa will require expectations to be set. All comforts found in America may not be available to your Africa destination. Be ready to adapt.
- research what you should take when you move to Africa - Africa is a Continent, not a country. With that said, you should research the African country you're moving to before packing for your final destination. Research the following information about your destination: weather, terrain, culture, and laws. This will help you determine what to bring with you.
- Don’t put barriers between you and the people of Africa - If you're moving to Africa, be ready to drop the barriers. You should be ready to embrace the people in Africa and their culture. Do not try to live an American life in Africa. Be ready to become an African.
- Get involved in African culture, events, experiences - This is an easy task, given the fact that Africa has some amazing culture that are very attractive to the outside world. Be ready to enjoy end get involved in the everyday life in Africa, experiencing the music, the food, the people, and all that Africa has to offer. You will not be disappointed for sure.
- Be prepared to Share your experience of living in Africa - As you move to Africa, you become a point of reference for those that are left in America. Be ready to share your experience about Africa to the rest of the world. This will help break down the stereotype about Africa. Journal and blog about your African life and become a resource to others that are planning on taking the same journey as you, and are looking for real information based on true experience.