There is considerable research which shows that positive branding and an enhanced image might create more favorable conditions for foreign direct investment,tourism, trade and even political relations with other states. The concept of measuring the global perception of a country in several spheres has been developed by Simon Anholt and is published as the Anholt Nation Brands Index.
The drive behind Africa Affiliate is rooted in trying to focus and highlighting on a continental scale, the positive developments and accomplishments around Africa with the hope that this will help shift some perceptions especially considering that the continent suffers hugely from the one-sided outlook which is usually that of an improverished, corrupt, war and disease riddled charity case.
A journalist once suggested that perhaps this is because the nosiest branding of Africa still comes from outside the continent. Having done some personal research, i did seem to notice that the prevalent global projection of Africa is less than inspiring and this seems to be overpowering the identities of nations that are excelling in growth and stability and obscuring achievements being made by African people on the global platform.
The idea of Africa Affiliate is to share more of the success stories coming out of Africa and following the contributions and progress being made by African people in all spheres of global participation. We hope bring a proud affiliation to the continent as a place of fascinating natural wealth and beauty, a place conducive for new business and with infinite investment opportunities, good governance and great culture.
