Achi Urges Diaspora to Drive Africa's Development

Patrick Achi, the President of the National Assembly of Côte d’Ivoire, called on Africans in the diaspora to return home and embrace their responsibilities towards the continent's development. He made this appeal during a fireside chat with Dr. Osasuyi Dirisu, the Executive Director of the Policy Innovation Centre, at the Gender and Inclusion Summit 2026 (GS-26) held in Abuja.

Achi emphasized that Africa's development should not be outsourced and encouraged skilled Africans abroad to become agents of change. He described development as a generational responsibility and stressed the importance of stronger legislative oversight to improve livelihoods.

Achi advocated for collaboration between the executive and legislature, supported by credible data and policy analysis. He also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence and digital transformation to accelerate Africa's development, particularly for its youthful population.

Achi urged governments to invest in digital infrastructure to ensure that the benefits of technology reach all communities and young people.