New York, February 12, 2026, Prof. Thomas Kaydor, Jr., Ph.D., Consul General of the Republic of Liberia at the Consulate General near New York joined his Colleagues at the Society of Foreign Consuls African Group Meeting at the Permanent Observer Mission of the African Union to the United Nations. The meeting started with the adoption of the Agenda by the Chairperson , Consul General of South Africa, Hon. Simon Cardy, and his colleagues ; followed by the remarks from the New York City Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, Mr. Sebastian Shama & Mr. Shaffiou Assoumanou, who provided updates on the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, and the ongoing Black History Month Events from different Boroughs in New York.
These updates were followed by the introduction and presentation by the Gotham Government Relations Director of Diplomatic Outreach Ambassador Sidique Wai with his team in different departments of the international Lobby Firm. The Gotham Team started by informing the African Group of Consul Generals on what they do that can benefit each African Country to overcome any challenges faced with the US Government. They mentioned that they help lobby in public policy by meeting with US Government Officials in discussing concerns, provide information and advocate for various Governments to surmount challenges with the USA government. They also discussed Different areas where they can help the Diplomatic Community in terms of lobbying for issues like Immigration, Duty and Tariff, visas etc.
Lastly, the presentation by the Co-Founders of the United African Investment and Trade Council, Mr. Samat Umurzakov & Ambassador Ed Ilechukwu, focus mainly on helping African Countries to Connect, engage, and consolidate investment opportunities for African states. They also mentioned that Africa doesn’t need charity or AID, but African needs accurate and responsible representation, connecting business opportunities based on each African country’s needs and national priorities, Trade and Investments.
