Plans for the massive African Village Project to be located in unincorporated south Fulton County took another step toward reality Oct. 27 at the U.S./Africa Conference at Georgia International Convention Center in College Park.

The project is designed to be a hub for the establishment of trade relations between American businesses and the 54 African nations.

The planning phases are expected to begin in 2008 with the construction phase for the $4-10 billion project beginning in 2009, with build-out over 10 years.

A primary feature of the project will be a replica of each of the 54 African nations on sites of up to 10 acres.

Other key elements anticipated for the extensive project, one covering more than 500 acres in several locations across unincorporated south Fulton, are a World Games Village and Amusement Park, International Regional Visitor’s Center, World Expo, Consular and Protocol Resource Center along with an education research center, vocational center, theater and convention center, world news and media center, museum and galleries.

Funding for the project is expected to come from a variety of sources, including the African nations, African-Americans and businesses, with other investments sources that might include the World Bank and the State of Georgia, according to African Heritage Foundation CEO Chief Tunde Adetunji.

Chief Tunde said the venues, when completed, are expected to draw 10 million tourists and business prospects per year.