The second edition of the International Diaspora Forum (FID) is underway at Bamako’s International Conference Center from July 16 to 18, 2026. This year’s theme, «Diaspora malienne et investissements productifs: bâtir un Mali économiquement fort pour un développement durable», underlines a bold vision: turning the Malian diaspora into a driving force for economic growth and sustainable progress.

The Kingdom of Morocco, invited as the guest of honor, symbolizes the shared commitment to harnessing diaspora potential. The opening ceremony was led by Prime Minister General Abdoulaye Maïga, who emphasized the forum’s strategic importance in national development.

Morocco’s ambassador to Mali, Driss Isbayène, highlighted the parallels between the two nations. With over six million Moroccans living abroad—mirroring the size of Mali’s diaspora—he noted, «Both countries face the same challenge: keeping their diaspora connected while encouraging meaningful investments in profitable and economy-boosting sectors.»

One participant, Alimatou Diallo, a Senegalese resident in Mali for years, praised the country’s welcoming spirit. «Since settling here, I’ve never felt isolated,» she shared. «This initiative empowers us to grow and promote our products on a larger scale.»

The Chair of the High Council of Malians Abroad, Habib Sylla, recalled President Assimi Goïta’s 2025 address to the diaspora: «Don’t hesitate to invest at home. My door remains open to support you in overcoming any hurdles.» Sylla called this pledge «the strongest signal the diaspora could hope for,» urging continued investment in key sectors.

Minister Mossa Ag Attaher, overseeing Malians Abroad and African Integration, framed the diaspora as central to the nation’s future: «They are not on the periphery—they are at the heart of Mali’s destiny.» He described the Diaspora Hub not just as a digital platform, but as a «meticulously designed infrastructure to permanently anchor Malians abroad to their homeland, institutions, and development goals.»

Prime Minister Maïga framed the forum as a cornerstone of Mali’s economic, social, and institutional transformation. «This vision builds a sovereign, prosperous, resilient, and united Mali by mobilizing all talents—including those of our diaspora,» he stated. He added that this effort aligns with the Alliance of Sahel States, fostering regional integration, solidarity, and mutually beneficial cooperation. The Malian diaspora is poised to lead, leveraging expertise, networks, and investment power to bridge Mali with the Sahel and the wider world.