From July 16 to 18, 2026, Bamako’s International Conference Center (CICB) will host the second edition of the International Diaspora Forum (FID). This year’s theme, ‘Malian Diaspora and Productive Investments: Building a Strong Economy for Sustainable Development,’ underscores a bold vision: transforming overseas Malians into key drivers of national progress.
The Kingdom of Morocco has been invited as the guest of honor, reflecting Bamako’s commitment to fostering diaspora-led economic development. The official opening ceremony was led by Prime Minister General Abdoulaye Maïga, signaling the government’s high-level engagement with the initiative.
Morocco’s Ambassador to Mali, Driss Isbayène, highlighted parallels between the two nations’ diaspora challenges. ‘Both countries grapple with the same dilemma: how to retain their diaspora’s emotional ties while encouraging greater productive investments that fuel economic growth,’ he noted. Morocco’s six million-strong diaspora mirrors Mali’s own overseas community in scale and potential.
A resident of Senegal now settled in Mali, Alimatou Diallo, shared her perspective: ‘Since arriving here, I’ve never felt isolated. This forum empowers us to grow and showcase our products.’ Her words echoed the event’s mission: bridging gaps between Mali and its global citizens.
Habib Sylla, President of the High Council of Malians Abroad, recalled the President of Transition, General Assimi Goïta’s, pledge during the first FID: ‘Don’t hesitate to invest back home. My door is always open to support you.’ For Sylla, this was the strongest signal yet to diaspora Malians, urging them to focus on high-potential sectors.
Minister of Malians Abroad and African Integration, Mossa Ag Attaher, framed the diaspora as ‘the heartbeat of the nation’s future.’ He described the Diaspora Hub not just as a digital platform but as a meticulously designed infrastructure to permanently reconnect expatriates with Mali’s institutions and development goals.
Prime Minister Maïga tied the forum to a broader strategy: ‘This vision embodies our ambition for a sovereign, prosperous, resilient, and united Mali—one that leverages every talent, including our diaspora.’
He emphasized the forum’s alignment with the Alliance of Sahel States, positioning the diaspora as a vital link between Mali, regional partners, and global markets. ‘With their expertise, networks, and capital, Malians abroad can accelerate our shared progress.’