Global African Diaspora Coalition (GLAD) is a worldwide coalition of Diaspora organisations for economic development and business action in Africa. GLAD is an umbrella body which provides a platform for Diaspora organisations to speak with one voice with various policy-makers and private and public sector institutions.

The worldwide coalition enables both business and non-business decision-makers to participate in the economic development of Africa via its Diaspora, which is one of Africa’s untapped and richest resources.

governance and transparency

Since its appointment as a member in NEPAD’s Civil Society Organization (CSO) Council, Global African Diaspora has been engaged in advocating and lobbying decision makers, government and cooperating partners on issues of good governance and transparency. GLAD contributed immensely through the participation in the NEPAD’s Civil Organisation (CSO) ‘Think Tank.’

climate for business

Through its work for the promotion of Medium Small and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs) GLAD has developed initiatives that target the support, development and influence of businesses in African. GLAD is currently participating in DFID consultations on design and development of the Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF).

trade

GLAD supports and works side by side corporate partners in promoting South–South trade and facilitating business links between African Diaspora businesses worldwide with their counterparts in Africa. GLAD fully supports a positive outcome of the Doha Trade Round for Africa. Glad is influencing international policy in Africa through the submission of reports and interventions promoting trade at international trade forums.

enterprise and employment

‘Thinking Globally, Acting Locally through Medium, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) for the Development of Business Action for Africa' is a programme that aims to support businesses in order to improve performance and generate more employment opportunities.

This pilot programme, initially in two countries, targets to reach and support over 5000 MSMEs. The programme will provide an integrated business support services for businesses with a particular focus on business start-ups and existing businesses that are up to 18 months old.

human development

GLAD, in collaboration with International Organization for Migration (OIM) and UNESCO, has developed programmes aimed at developing the capacity of Civil Society NGOs. The focus is on leadership and management skills training. Over 200 NGOs will directly benefit from this programme.

perceptions of africa

GLAD supports and participates in the campaign 'Proud to be an African' and '24 Hour African Diaspora Worldwide Campaign' initiatives of the Avenir Nepad, IOM, and UNESCO that promotes positive image of Africa.