The African Diaspora Economic Council is dedicated to connecting Africa's diaspora with economic opportunities across the continent.
Our Story
Founded on the belief that Africa's diaspora represents a powerful force for economic development, ADEC brings together professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from around the world who share a commitment to Africa's growth.
Through our network of over 5,000 members across 50+ countries, we facilitate connections, share knowledge, and create opportunities that drive meaningful economic impact across the African continent.
Our History
2018 - The Beginning
ADEC was established by a group of African diaspora leaders who recognized the need for a unified platform to harness the economic potential of Africa's global community. What started as informal networking gatherings evolved into a structured organization committed to economic collaboration.
2019 - Building Momentum
Our membership grew to over 1,000 professionals across 20 countries. We launched our first annual summit, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to discuss opportunities in African markets.
2021 - Expansion & Impact
ADEC facilitated over $50 million in investments across the continent and expanded our network to 50+ countries. We established regional chapters in North America, Europe, and Asia to better serve our growing membership.
2024 - Present Day
Today, ADEC represents over 5,000 members worldwide, has facilitated hundreds of business partnerships, and continues to be at the forefront of connecting Africa's diaspora with opportunities for economic growth and development across the continent.
Our Mission
To advocate and promote bi-lateral trade, socioeconomic development and investment opportunities in the United States and the Emerging Markets of the Sub-Saharan African market region through collaboration with the United States business community, such as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Multi-national Corporations and Non-Governmental Agencies (NGOs).
Our Vision
Our vision is to advocate and promote the interests of the Africans Diaspora business entities throughout the United States by collaborating with African Americans businesses, multi-national corporations, and individuals in positions of authority in the public sectors, for the sole purpose of advocating and promoting bilateral trade and socioeconomic development on both continents, especially as people of African descent faced uncertainty into the future.
Our Goals
Establishing collaborative and strategic partnerships with the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Common Markets of Eastern and Southeastern Africa (COMESA)
Our Board
Obi Ibeto
Director
Obi leads ShieldForce Corporation, leveraging AI-driven cybersecurity to protect businesses from financial losses and reputational damage.
John Monteiro
Director
John R. Monteiro is a seasoned entrepreneur with 40+ years of success in engineering, renewable energy, and business development.
Doris Adesuyi
Chairman/Executive Director
Doris is a Rhode Island native with West African roots, is the founder of the Diversity Business Exhibit.
Chris Jackson
Co-Founder
Mr. Jackson leads the New England Chamber of Commerce, advancing U.S.-Africa trade and economic development through strategic partnerships, trade advisory, and diaspora-led investment initiatives./p>
Kodou Jeng
Co-Founder
Kodou leads WiSTEM Africa, harnessing inclusive technology and AI to drive gender equity, digital inclusion, and leadership development across Africa.
Christine Tangishaka
Director
Christine is a certified Grief Specialist, Facilitator, and Speaker with 20 years of corporate leadership experience. As founder of Your Grief Specialist, LLC, she offers tailored grief support for individuals and organizations, with a special focus on helping motherless adult women heal and grow through loss.