In 2014, the shocking incident of a mob attack on African students deeply shook me. Again, in 2017, a disturbing video surfaced showing another such attack in Greater Noida. Many of the students were too afraid to leave their homes. I volunteered to carry groceries for some of those I knew personally.
These incidents sparked a strong desire in me to engage more deeply with the African student community in India. This led me to the Association of African Students in India (AASI), which had been established in early 2015. I wanted to better understand their experiences, challenges, and the efforts being made to foster a sense of community and safety.
I was once invited to address the general assembly of African students. To inspire them, I shared the story of Peter Ngugi, who was deeply affected by the attacks on African students. Determined to raise awareness against racism and promote India-Africa friendship, Peter set off on a bicycle journey from the Northeast to the southern parts of India. With almost no money, he was supported along the way by kind-hearted Indians.
To my surprise, Peter was in the audience that day—and also happened to be the speaker after me. The moment was so moving that we hugged each other spontaneously.
Later, Peter shared that when he first arrived in India, he was dissatisfied with his university and didn’t attend classes. Instead, he honed his IT skills through internships. I was able to help him secure a scholarship at Symbiosis University, where he thrived. He even gained media attention for his initiatives promoting Africa. He graduated in 2022 and is now the Co-Founder and CEO of Skizza, a teacher training startup in Kenya. I feel immense pride—like a mother would for her child—in having contributed in a small way to his journey.
Peter once said before leaving India:
“Dear Mama Africa, thank you for empowering me and pushing me beyond boundaries of imagination. Your acts of kindness and support to African students in India will forever stay in our hearts. I’m always looking forward to working with you.”
Patrick from Uganda, a graduate in International Studies from Symbiosis, contacted me through Peter to seek an internship. I recommended him to the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS). They were so impressed that they hired him as their Resource Person for Africa and Global Development Cooperation (GDC) in Uganda. It was yet another proud moment for me—my joy knew no bounds.
Mamoudou Sissoko from Mali was overjoyed to meet me during my visit to Quest Group of Institutions, where he was studying. The institution had hosted one of our Africa-focused events. He later messaged me:
“I would like to thank you for all the sacrifices you make for me and my fellow Africans. Knowing you has been one of the best things that has happened to me in India. I will make you very proud in the near future…”
Kassiama from Côte d’Ivoire was grateful that I attended their Independence Day celebration in Vadodara. Through a connection I made for him at an Africa business event, he received a job offer. He was thrilled and gifted me a framed memento.
In Vadodara, a group of Cameroonian students felt disheartened that no one was listening to their concerns. I sat with them, listened patiently, offered guidance, and promised support where possible. They later invited me to share a home-cooked Cameroonian meal and presented a framed message reading “Bienvenue Mama Africa”—meaning “Welcome, Mama Africa.”
Faidullahi from Nigeria visited me facing issues with his course and financial constraints. He was unable to purchase his return ticket home. I ensured he returned safely. His father sent me this heartfelt message:
“This is to express my profound gratitude for your immense assistance and support to my son during his time in India. He spoke of the moral and financial help you extended, especially during his departure. I don’t have words to express how thankful I am. May God Almighty reward you abundantly.”
— Ibiyemi Tajudeen Adebayo, Faidullahi’s father
My engagement with African students continues. I offer them two things: respect and my time. I mentor and guide them, mediate internal conflicts when needed, and host them like family. We often cook and eat together.
I’m deeply grateful to the founders and former presidents of AASI—Sekou Dembele, and Abdoulaye Kouma, co-founder of AASCI (Afro-Asian Students Connection in India), and the Gambia Students Association in India, for including me in their efforts and activities.
Over time, my list of adopted children from Africa keeps growing. I have even had the privilege of visiting and staying at their homes. During a trip to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, I stayed with Amy’s family. She had just completed her studies and returned home. Both her parents work at the airport. I requested Amy’s help with translation during my meetings.
Last year, when my elder son was flying with Air Côte d’Ivoire, his flight was delayed and no one at the counter could provide information about accommodations or onward flights. I reached out to Amy, and her mother intervened with the airline. My son was guided accordingly—another moment that reminded me how the ties we build across borders often come full circle.
With cultural similarities, vibrant youth, and shared aspirations, I truly believe thatIndia and Africa can nurture their partnership through mutual trust and innovative solutions.
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