Mr. Awad Chamas is the President of Eurogulf Consulting, Belgium, a reference in the field of consulting at European level. He carries out diplomatic, economic and commercial representation missions, the last of which was in Dakar last month with Her Royal Highness, Princess Astrid who represented Philippe, King of Belgians. Awad is a Diplomatic Adviser of the Soul of Europe. He is also the National Director of Civil Diplomat, Jethro International in Senegal, Cote d’ Ivoire, and Persian Gulf. An independent economic expert, Awad has extensive experience in international relations and public-private partnerships. He has worked for over 20 years to build links between governments and the private sector, promoting trade and investment in countries in the Middle East and Africa
Jethro Civil Diplomat, Awad Chamas speaks exclusively to Sunday Oyinloye, Publisher Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable.
Excerpts:
Some might not know what Jethro International is all about; would you like to talk about it?
Jethro International is an organization based in Brussels, Belgium, with operational bases in the Americas and Africa. It is present in more than 100 countries. Our Civilian Diplomats are equipped with legal recognition before government bodies that give them the necessary prerogative so that they can exercise the role of Humanitarian Civilian Diplomats, ready to provide assistance in the most diverse social problems and cooperate in the various aspects of human needs. All Civilian Humanitarian Diplomats linked to Jethro International have a seal consisting of the Credential Card and Badge which gives them the legal right of free access to places, regions or establishments under the various international conventions. Humanitarian Diplomats from various sectors are linked to Jethro International Civil Diplomacy: heads of government, consuls, lawyers, judges, delegates, police officers, doctors, nurses, religious leaders, pilots, executive and legislative politicians, businessmen, firefighters, rescuers, teachers, psychologists, authors, representing the most varied segments of society. Therefore, the role of Humanitarian Civilian Diplomats is to relate with the authorities established to mediate the dialogue between the interests in society and government as well as public security bodies.
Why did you set up Eurogulf Consulting?
After many years of work in several fields, for example, medical, representation of two Belgian companies’ abroad, import and export, participation in Belgian princely missions in the world, I have created a large and effective global network. So, I had the idea of creating Eurogulf Consulting to serve companies in my areas of expertise and to make partnerships often in Africa, Europe and the Gulf countries.
As an Economic expert familiar with developments in Europe, Gulf countries and Africa, can you identify the major factors militating against speedy economic development of Africa?
They are many; political instability, underemployment, inequalities, mono production, economic and political dependence are some of the factors that characterize this low level of economic development in Africa and which hinder its development. For example, the agricultural and mining sectors are geared more towards the interests of the international market than the needs of the local populations. Their capital, technology and equipment are entirely of foreign origin. These are the issues.
Are there any solutions in sight to these challenges?
It is about focusing on human-centred development priorities, and prioritizing investment in education, health care, social protection and scientific research as the basis for creating a new Africa capable of looking inward and finding endogenous solutions to its problems, while securing its place on the international stage.
What are your thoughts on leadership in Africa?
Leadership cannot be provided from the outside. It is a capacity that must emerge from within the continent by involving Africans in the diaspora. It conditions the appropriation of the development process and determines the role and respect for institutions and rules. The future is that of Africa given the natural resources, youth’s population, and human resources at its disposal to emerge victorious in its quest for sustainable development and the eradication of poverty. There is also the need to give opportunities to women, particularly in the area of education so that they can be involved in nation building. We can see the interest taken in Africa by emerging countries such as China, India, Korea and Malaysia. That is enough reason why leaders should to make a difference by using the new resources available to serve their people with dignity.
Contact:
Email: chamas.eulobby@gmail.com
+32498059567