Ghana and Senegal are the two most well-known sub-Saharan African countries that have actively tried to recruit immigrants from the African diaspora in the Western Hemisphere.
Akon is an American pop star whose family immigrated to the USA from Senegal in the 1970s. Many sources state that he was born in St. Louis, MO. However, he now claims that he was born in a Senegalese village. His full birth name is allegedly Aliaune Damala Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam. He holds dual citizenship in America and Senegal. His net worth is estimated to be $60 to $80 million.
Akon is seeking African Americans to invest in his dream of a futuristic “Akoncity” on the coast of Senegal in M’bour Department. He says the project draws a lot of inspiration from Dubai. The official currency of Akoncity will be a crypto-currency called “Akoin.” Allegedly, he has the full cooperation of the government of Senegal, and the city will be constructed over the course of the next ten years.
Akoncity was first announced in 2018. He claims that much of the pre-construction work was completed during the COVID-19 lockdown, such as environmental studies, surveying, and zoning. A ceremonial foundation stone was unveiled in August of 2020. Senegal’s Minister of Tourism attended the ceremony.
However, in 2022, one of Akon’s investors filed a lawsuit against him over a lack of any actual construction. In December 2022, the BBC said there were still no signs of construction, and the site was instead full of goats.
In May of 2023, Akon tweeted pictures of alleged construction occurring at the site.
“Africa is in a position where if African Americans take position now, every single African American would be a millionaire without even thinking twice because there’s nothing that’s not needed over there. So, you guys come with the discipline, you guys come with the knowledge, you come with the resources.” – Akon
“I mean, you name it. We’re leading in every single sector. Just imagine if we all just decided to just take all our bags, withdrew all our money, and go to Africa. Where would America be today? It would collapse overnight.” – Akon
New one hour interview about Akoncity:
This video was created three years ago when Akon first announced the project.
Alleged construction occurring at the site in May 2023:
Africa is on the developing lane whether they like it or not.