San José, Costa Rica – 09 February 2025

Aido Network International, a globally recognized civil society organization dedicated to uniting African traditional leadership with the diaspora, is set to lead a ten-member African royal delegation to Costa Rica, in South America, March 30th to 7th April, 2025. This visit marks a new chapter in the strengthening of cultural, diplomatic, and historical ties between Africa and the Afro-Costa Rican communities.

Building on its recent success in the Caribbean, where it deepened relations with the Jamaican Maroons, Aido continues to champion cultural diplomacy, bridging continents and reconnecting African heritage with its global descendants. The upcoming visit is poised to celebrate shared histories, promote economic empowerment, and pave the way for sustainable partnerships.

Organized in collaboration with the Association of Integral Development of Uolaba (Asociación de Desarrollo Integral de Puerto Viejo, ADI) and Costa Rica’s Afro Museum (Museo Afro-Costa Rica, MACR), this initiative highlights the rich cultural connections between Africa and Afro-descendant communities in Costa Rica.

“This visit exemplifies the deep cultural and historical bonds between Africa and its diaspora. We eagerly anticipate welcoming the Aido royal delegation and engaging in meaningful exchanges that will strengthen our shared heritage,” said Lady Laylí J. T. Brown Stangeland, Founder of Costa Rica’s Afro Museum.

Chief Eric Phillips Siphosezulu, Aido’s Ambassador-at-Large, added, “Reconnecting Africa with its diaspora is essential to preserving our rich cultural heritage. The visit of African kings and Queens to Costa Rica is a landmark moment in strengthening African identity and cultural diplomacy, aligning with the Second International Decade for People of African Descent as declared by the United Nations. It offers an opportunity to fortify historical bonds, celebrate African identity, and ensure that our traditions continue to thrive worldwide. Through unity and collaboration, we can preserve African heritage while forging new pathways for cultural and economic development.”

Under the leadership of Her Highness Queen Grace Eganda, Secretary General of Aido Global Network, the delegation will engage with government officials, cultural institutions, the University of Costa Rica, and local communities. These discussions will focus on heritage preservation, cultural revitalization, and establishing sustainable partnerships that benefit both Africa and its diaspora.

Representing a coalition of distinguished leaders from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Cameroon, Jamaica, and the Global African Diaspora, this royal delegation exemplifies a powerful commitment to strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties with Afro-Costa Rican communities.

Aido remains at the forefront of global African engagement, fostering sustainable partnerships in cultural preservation, education, and economic development. This visit highlights Aido’s mission to reconnect Africa with its diaspora and celebrate the resilience and vibrancy of African heritage worldwide.

For media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:

AIDO PRESS UNIT
Email: info@aidonetwork.org