In a moment rich with symbolism and strategic clarity, Royal Shariyf of Human2outcme joined Ambassadors from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—alongside the U.S. Ambassador to Mali—for a pivotal dialogue hosted by the Constituency for Africa (CFA) in Washington, D.C. The gathering, held at the Nixon Peabody Law Offices in Washington D.C. marked a significant milestone in the emergence of the Confederation of Sahel States (CES), a bold regional alliance committed to self-determination, security, and economic integration.

The tone was unapologetically sovereign.

• Ambassador Sekou Berthe of Mali emphasized Mali’s resolve to defend itself with its own resources, framing the CES as a necessary pivot toward regional autonomy.
• Ambassador Kassoum Coulibaly of Burkina Faso echoed this sentiment. His call was clear: partnerships must be rooted in equality, not dependency.
• Chargé d’Affaires Hassane Idi of Niger brought an economic lens, outlining plans for a confederal investment bank and harmonized governance structures to facilitate trade and movement across the region. His message to the diaspora was direct—invest, engage, and help close the chapter on colonial residue.
• Ambassador Rachna Korhonen of the United States offered a complementary perspective, advocating for trade and investment over traditional aid.

This meeting was particularly pertinent for Human2outcome as it coincides with the work Royal Shariyf and Qaalfa Dibeehi are doing in Burkina Faso with Nexts Technology, a collaboration focused on empowering local innovation, building resilient infrastructure, and fostering inclusive growth. This project exemplifies the kind of diaspora-led partnership the Ambassadors called for: grounded, strategic, and deeply aligned with the region’s aspirations.

The private meeting underscored the importance of culturally aligned leadership in helping to shape Africa’s future. Engagement with the Ambassadors signaled a commitment to unity, dignity, and the power of the diaspora to catalyze transformation. As the CES gains momentum, this meeting served as both a declaration and an invitation: the time for African-led solutions is now, and the diaspora is not just welcome—it is essential.  Human2outcome is committed to playing its role.