Mama Africa - From Bucket List to Home Sweet Home

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift among many Black Americans in their perception of Africa. No longer just a distant dream on a bucket list, Africa is becoming a place to call home, a place to frequent, and a place to explore. As a West African born in Liberia, my bias is evident, but my passion for promoting Africa as a vibrant and rich continent is shared by many who have taken the time to learn about its beauty and diversity. It's time to move Africa from the bucket list to being on deck.

For Black Americans, the connection to Africa goes beyond tourism—it's about reclaiming roots severed by the transatlantic slave trade. We are the only race to have endured the systematic effort to erase our history, but the tide is turning. Learning about Africa is a powerful act of reclamation, a way to reconnect with a heritage that is both diverse and profound.

The beauty of Africa...let me count the ways:

1. Culinary Delights: Africa boasts a culinary scene that is unparalleled. The flavors, spices, and diversity of dishes are an experience in themselves. From the savory jollof rice in West Africa to the aromatic injera in East Africa, the continent's food is a journey for the taste buds. It's time to savor the richness of African cuisine beyond stereotypes.

2. Fashion Extravaganza in West Africa: Senegal proudly holds the title of the fashion capital of Africa. The creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship displayed by Senegalese designers are awe-inspiring. From traditional attire to cutting-edge contemporary fashion, Africa's fashion scene is a testament to the continent's artistic prowess.

3. Diverse People, Diverse Beauty: The people of Africa are as diverse as the landscapes that stretch across the continent. The range of skin tones, dialects, and physiques is unmatched. Africa is a mosaic of cultures, languages, and ethnicities, and each corner tells a unique story. It's time to embrace the beauty of African diversity.

Africa is not just a destination; it's a journey into history, culture, and self-discovery. For Black Americans, it represents a reclaiming of roots and a celebration of heritage. From the unmatched cuisine to the fashion capital of Senegal and the diverse beauty of its people, Africa offers an experience that transcends the confines of a bucket list. It's time to move beyond intentional ignorance and make Africa a place to call home—a place that enriches the soul and fosters a sense of belonging. Let's take the step from dreaming to living, from a bucket list item to a cherished reality. Africa awaits, ready to welcome you with open arms. And P.S.....I'm always down for a road trip! 😁🙌🏾😇