The Inaugural Convention of the Diaspora Council of Tanzanians in America [DICOTA]

You are cordially invited to participate in the inaugural convention of the Diaspora Council of Tanzanians in America (DICOTA) to be held in Houston, Texas, USA from October 1st to 4th, 2009 at the Renaissance Houston Hotel Greenway Plaza.

In September 2008, approximately 30 with ties to or of Tanzanian origin from different parts of the United States gathered in Houston Texas as a focus group to discuss the possibility of starting a Diaspora Organization of Tanzanians living in the United States of America. Also in attendance was the Ambassador of Tanzania to the United States – Mr. Ombeni Sefue, along with a delegation of dignitaries from Tanzania representing the government, the public and private sectors. Arising from this meeting a committee was formed which would: (a) Develop the charter for the new organization; and (b) organize a convention to inaugurate the organization.

The convention is organized and promoted by DICOTA and the Pan African Community Organization (PACO).

The purpose of DICOTA is to promote cultural, education, business and trade pursuits benefiting Tanzania and the United States of America by getting involved in liaison, networking and entrepreneurial activities in the different sectors of United States’ and Tanzania's economy.

The convention attendees will include individuals with ties to or of Tanzanians descent living in America, , non-profit organizations, international organizations, government and business leaders from Tanzania and United States. The highlight of this conference will be a keynote address by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, His Excellency Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete. The President has been invited and we are awaiting his response.

For more information please read the attached flier. Also use information in the attached documents to register for the convention and to reserve a room in the hotel at the special discount rates for conference attendees only. The number of rooms at the special rate are limited. So please book early!

We sincerely hope that you will join us in making DICOTA a success. We look forward to welcoming you to Houston and to the DICOTA Convention.

Sincerely,

DICOTA Interim Secretary

ankunga@dicotaus.org