The Coalition is an open group representing organizations that serve African Nova Scotian people, communities, interests and needs. The Coalition began to organize in response to an opportunity to present to the United Nations Working Group of Experts for People of African Descent (WGEPAD) in Halifax on Oct. 19, 2016. The group’s members recognize that the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024) provides a unique opportunity to build provincial, national and international momentum for change that will benefit people of African descent in Nova Scotia and beyond.

The ANSJI will serve as a justice focused organization that is both proactive and reactive in its response to the pervasive institutional racism experienced by people of African descent in their interactions with policing, the courts, prison, and related systems. Taking on legal cases, providing court support and creating unique legal education opportunities for African Nova Scotians are just a few of the initiatives planned for the ANSJI.

For generations, African Nova Scotians have advocated for unity and prosperity, and have remained committed to building and maintaining their community by carrying each other’s challenges and solving them together. Developed and led by community, the African Nova Scotian Road to Economic Prosperity Plan (REPP) is a five-year economic development strategy that aims to address systemic issues and improve economic and quality of life outcomes for African Nova Scotians.

Pronounced – Akuma – The word akoma represents the heart in the Ghana culture and denotes love, patience, compassion, endurance and charity. In February 2011, the Board of Directors of the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children a residential care facility for children in the care of the Province took steps to deal with the shortage of short-term foster placements in Nova Scotia through the establishment of the Akoma Family Centre. The new residential program enabled brothers and sisters placed in foster care to stay together. The main funding for the Centre came from the Department of Community Services. Additional funding comes from fundraising initiatives such as the Annual Broadcast for Funds, grants and donations.