The urgency of brain drain in Ghana. Africa’s brightest minds should be shaping its future — not seeking opportunities elsewhere.” Kofi Hagan, Executive Coach and Management Consultant This quote is what inspired me to write this article. It captures a deep and urgent truth felt across our continent. Africa continues to lose some of its most talented sons and daughters to the lure of opportunity abroad. But I believe it is time to reverse the tide — to transform brain drain into brain gain. A growing crisis The term brain drain has long haunted the African continent. It refers to the steady and painful departure of Africa’s best minds who leave home in pursuit of better education, economic opportunities, and quality of life in Western countries. These journeys are driven by hope, but often end in hardship. Yes, I would agree that some succeed but there are many who do not. Far too many never return for one reason or another. Today, this challenge has deepened with the rise of illegal migration and human trafficking. Desperation drives people into dangerous paths where their dreams are not just deferred but are destroyed. Some live in dignity abroad, but many roam Western cities underemployed or homeless, disconnected from their purpose and far from their potential. A shift is happening Across the continent, a new movement is quietly taking shape, one of return, rebuilding, and renewal. African leadership at every level, from government, private sector, civil society and faith-based institutions must rise to the occasion and further the movement. In fact, signs of progress are already visible in countries that have and are starting to experience what is being called reverse brain drain. My own country is one of the leading examples of this encouraging trend. Rwanda: From Exodus to Homecoming For many years, “Rwanda Day” has been hosted across major cities in Europe, North America, and beyond. These events were more than just cultural gatherings. They became platforms for vision casting, mobilisation, and a renewed sense of belonging for Rwandans abroad. They allowed the diaspora to witness firsthand the transformation taking place back home, in governance, infrastructure, technology, education, and national unity. Today, thousands of Rwandans have returned. Many others, though still abroad, are investing intentionally and strategically in their homeland. They are building schools, starting companies, supporting healthcare systems, and mentoring young professionals. This is the power of reverse brain drain. — Rwanda is a shining testimony of what’s possible when a nation believes in itself. This progress would not be possible without the bold, visionary leadership of President Paul Kagame. His commitment to national unity, good governance, development, and inclusive progress has created the environment for both return and reinvestment. Hope is Biblical This story is not just economic or political, it is deeply spiritual. The Bible tells the recurring story of exile and return. God’s people often wandered, but God always made a way back. “I will bring them back to the land I gave to their ancestors, and they shall take possession of it.” – Jeremiah 30:3. “Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.” – Isaiah 58:12 God is in the business of rebuilding. And so must we be. Be the agent of change Whenever I speak abroad, I introduce myself with pride: “I am Mbanda from Rwanda — the Land of a Thousand Hills and more than a thousand smiles... including yours.” Rwandans are proud of their nation and its achievements. Rwanda is more than a success story, it is a testimony of what happens when vision meets leadership and people begin to believe again. To my fellow Africans: Let us be agents of brain gain. Let us bring home our education experience, our networks, our exposure, and our faith. Let us build companies, schools, systems, and churches. Let us invest, innovate, inspire and mentor our young, those who never left. We can make a difference, given the exposure and experience that the Lord has provided us. A call to celebrate return In the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15), the emphasis is often on the one who left. But the beauty of the story is in the return — and the father’s joyful welcome. Africa, too, must receive her sons and daughters with joy, not judgment. And to those still abroad: you are not too late. You are not too lost. Let us celebrate our returnees, and where possible, intentionally incentivise them. The brain drain is not the end of our story. It is simply a chapter, let us write the next one at home. The writer is the Archbishop of the Anglican Church and Chair of GAFCON.
