Prishtina, Kosovo – December 2024 – At the invitation of Kosovo’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Dr. Djibril Diallo, President and CEO of the African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN), participated in the Ulpiana Forum’s panel discussion titled “Filling the Gaps: Diaspora Talent as a Driver of Development.” The discussion aligned with ARDN’s efforts to promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of its special partnership with the United Nations.
The session, moderated by Ms. Flaka Ismaili, Program Manager of the Citizen Diplomacy Fellowship of Kosovo, brought together global leaders to explore the transformative potential of diaspora communities in advancing sustainable development.
Representing ARDN, Dr. Diallo showcased the organization’s flagship initiative, the “Pathway to Solutions,” emphasizing the critical role of diaspora engagement in promoting gender equality, youth empowerment, climate action, economic growth, and advocacy for justice and robust institutions.
Beyond his participation in the panel, Dr. Diallo held strategic discussions with Kosovo’s leadership:
- Conversation with Prime Minister Albin Kurti: Dr. Diallo explored synergies between ARDN’s mission and Kosovo’s initiatives to harness diaspora capital for sustainable development and peacebuilding. They discussed potential collaborations, particularly in leveraging sports diplomacy, with a focus on the 2030 Mediterranean Games.
- Meeting with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Liza Gashi: Their discussions highlighted the integration of diaspora engagement programs such as “Made in Kosovo” and the Ulpiana Forum with ARDN’s initiatives. They also examined opportunities for collaboration on ARDN’s “Red Card Campaign” against discrimination and violence towards women and girls.
- Working Lunch with Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports, Daulina Osmani: The discussions revolved around promoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through sports and the strategic role of the 2030 Mediterranean Games. They also discussed implementing the “Red Card Campaign” to foster societal progress and inclusive development.
Dr. Diallo deeply appreciated Kosovo’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora and the nation’s leadership for their openness and collaborative spirit. He emphasized that these discussions are instrumental in forging connections and fostering impactful partnerships for an inclusive and sustainable future.
About ARDN
The African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN) is an internationally operating NGO headquartered in New York City. ARDN’s mission is to accelerate the realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in Africa and the African diaspora by fostering partnerships and advocating for policies that promote human rights, peace, and sustainable development.
For more information, visit www.ardn.ngo.
For Media Inquiries, Contact:
Angela Eme
Email: angelauzoeme@gmail.com
Phone: +1 954 805 1671
Ibrahima Faye
Email: ibrahima.faye@ardn.ngo
Phone: +221 77 653 73 51