Upcoming Events with the Diaspora Desk
Stay up to date with events happening in our community and see where the DRC Diaspora Desk will be present, supporting, and engaging—locally and beyond.
Action for Congo: Advocacy Reception
We invite you to join us this evening as we recognize the impact of our collective advocacy efforts and consider the work that still lies ahead. Through consistent engagement and active participation, the Action for Congo network has successfully brought greater attention to the critical issues facing the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Our dedicated advocacy is poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by war in the DRC. We look forward to you joining us for this important occasion.
For more information, please email actionforcongo@gmail.com.
RSVP BY JULY 7 bit.ly/ActionforCongo
Beyond critical minerals: Capitalizing on the DRC’s vast opportunities
On Thursday, June 12 at 9:30 a.m. ET, the Africa Center is convening experts to look beyond critical minerals in evaluating opportunities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Although the mining sector is undoubtedly key, the DRC hosts several untapped opportunities, from agriculture to financial services and from infrastructure projects to hydropower. With them, the DRC has a chance to build roads, power grids, and infrastructure that will sustain a democratic country and economic growth in the years ahead.
This event will unveil the findings of a new publication, “Beyond critical minerals: Capitalizing on the DRC’s vast opportunities,” and will outline the multitude of opportunities offered by the DRC’s business environment, industry, and other promising sectors throughout the country.
Join this conversation to hear from several of the report’s authors about the vast opportunities of the DRC.
The Africa Center has a dedicated workstream on the DRC that focuses on highlighting unique opportunities—for investment, partnership, engagement, and more—in the country, as well as a Critical Minerals Task Force that serves as a leading platform for research and discussion on the burgeoning critical mineral sector in Africa.
Please click here to register: Beyond critical minerals: Capitalizing on the DRC’s vast opportunities - Atlantic Council
Agenda 2063: Voices of African Women Today Book Launch and Roundtable
Join us for the book launch of Agenda 2063: Voices of African Women Today and a roundtable with Congolese women leaders advancing gender justice. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by the voices of African women!
AGENDA 2063
Voices of African Women Today
Keynote Speaker
Dunia Mekonnen Tegegn, Author
Moderator
Jessica Kanya-Ngambi, Doctoral Candidate & Founder, African Diaspora Connection
Congolese Women Delegates:
Justine Masika Bihamba, Synergie des Femmes
Anny Modi, Afia Mama
Elodie W'lgulu Ntamuzinda, Dignité Humaine
Fazila Kambesa, Congolese Women Fund
Understanding the Congolese Mining Ecosystem
Join us on Saturday May 31 to gain insights on Congo’s mining ecosystem—from artisanal operations to multinational deals. Learn who the key players are, how the sector is regulated, and what opportunities exist for ethical engagement and investment.
Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed.
Register now to be part of the conversation.
Speakers:
PANELISTS
Yves Mayilamene, Glencore
Tomisi Kikama, Okapi US
Eric Mboma, LeverEdge IV
Namwezi Batumike, Panzi Foundation
Bo Machayo, Micron
Moderator:
Lukogho Kasomo, CDIS
Location: Zoom
Registration Link: Understanding the Congolese Mining Ecosystem Tickets, Sat, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite
Saturday, May 31 | 11 AM ET - 12PM ET/ 3 PM GMT - 4 PM GMT
A Fireside Chat on the U.S. Department of State's Commercial Diplomacy Strategy in Africa
The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs recently unveiled a commercial diplomacy strategy towards Africa that reframes U.S. foreign policy towards the continent. This six-point plan aims to streamline U.S. diplomatic engagement to focus on activities that increase U.S. exports and investment in Africa, eliminate trade deficits, and drive mutual prosperity.
Concurrently, the Trump administration has announced plans to host a U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit later this year. To learn more about the new commercial diplomacy strategy and the upcoming summit, the Carnegie Africa Program will host a fireside chat with Ambassador Troy Fitrell, senior bureau official at the Bureau of African Affairs at the U.S. Department of State.
Join Dr. Zainab Usman, inaugural director of the Carnegie Africa Program, as she sits down with Ambassador Fitrell to discuss the administration’s evolving strategy toward Africa and the growing role of commercial diplomacy in the future of U.S.-Africa relations.
To register for event please click here.
Celebrating Diaspora Impact
Join us for the second edition of our Diaspora Impact Mixer as we honor Congolese American professionals driving change in Congo amid the ongoing conflict.
Network, vibe, and uplift the diaspora community while supporting Black businesses at DimmpLes Kettles, a vibrant African fusion restaurant in downtown Silver Spring, MD.
Date: Friday, May 2nd
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: DimmpLes Kettles – 8073 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Extended Happy Hour: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Ticket proceeds will go toward Congo relief efforts.
Africa Business Conference 2025
To register: Africa Business Conference 2025 - Africa Business Club
The Africa Business Conference 2025 is a flagship event that serves as a vital platform for connecting passionate students, seasoned professionals, and influential policymakers from across the globe. This dynamic event fosters meaningful dialogue and collaboration, working collectively to shape a brighter and more prosperous future for the African continent.
This year's theme - "Africa Rising: Unlocking Opportunities for the Next Generation,"
Key Panels:
1. Healthcare Panel
2. International Development/Conflict/Policy Panel
3. Media, Marketing and Entertainment Panel
4. Finance and Fintech Panel
5. AI and EdTech Panel
Side Events:
1. Diaspora Connect Room
2. Career Session
3. Pitch Competition
4. Vendors Fair
Action for Congo Weekly Meetings
Click here to send us an email to participate in our weekly Tuesday meetings.
The Bilateral Meeting Invest in the D.R. Congo Forum
Click here to register.
Join us on April 22-23, 2025, at George Washington University, Elliott School of International Affairs, for a high-level summit shaping the future of U.S.-DRC relations.
In the face of regional tensions, this event will highlight the DRC’s geostrategic importance and critical role in global mineral supply for advanced technologies.
Connect with ministers, policymakers, investors, and industry leaders as we explore investment opportunities and sustainable solutions for economic growth. Be part of the conversation driving strategic partnerships and global impact.