On July 28 and 29, 2026, Niamey is set to become the central hub for Nigeriens residing abroad, as the city proudly hosts the second edition of the Nigerien Diaspora Forum. This significant gathering, orchestrated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Nigeriens Abroad, aims to empower the diaspora as a pivotal force in the nation’s economic and social advancement.
Under the distinguished patronage of the President of the Republic, General of the Army Abdourahamane Tiani, this crucial event aligns perfectly with the ongoing ‘Refoundation’ initiative championed by Nigerien authorities.
Positioning the diaspora at the core of national development strategy
The 2026 edition of the Nigerien Diaspora Forum will unfold at Niamey’s prestigious Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center. It will center around the theme: “Contribution of the Nigerien diaspora to the economic and social development of the country in the context of the Refoundation.”
Through this vital forum, authorities aim to establish a robust framework for dialogue, connecting Nigeriens living abroad with public institutions, technical and financial partners, and private sector stakeholders. The overarching goal is to harness and leverage the diaspora’s invaluable skills, expertise, and resources to significantly accelerate national progress and development.
Beyond mere discussions, the gathering also seeks to pinpoint tangible mechanisms that can foster productive investments, facilitate knowledge transfer, and ensure greater involvement of overseas Nigeriens in the nation’s pivotal transformation projects.
Two days of focused discussions in Niamey
Over the course of two intensive days, participants will engage in profound deliberations regarding the opportunities and challenges inherent in integrating the diaspora into Niger’s ongoing nation-building efforts. Key discussions will explore effective strategies to strengthen the vital connections between the expertise held by Nigeriens abroad and the pressing development requirements within the country.
Consequently, this forum stands as a prime platform designed to cultivate enduring partnerships among public authorities, investors, entrepreneurs, and diaspora members, all operating under a shared vision of sustainable cooperation for Niger’s future.
Mobilizing global Nigerien talent for the Refoundation
Through this forward-thinking initiative, the Nigerien government emphatically reiterates its commitment to positioning the diaspora as a strategic partner in the ‘Refoundation’ process. Authorities are keenly banking on the rich experience, professional competencies, and investment potential of Nigeriens residing globally to bolster the nation’s ambitious economic and social aspirations.
Scheduled to commence on July 28 at the Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, the Nigerien Diaspora Forum is poised to significantly strengthen the vital connections between Niger and its citizens living abroad. The ultimate aim is to transform their collective engagement into a powerful, sustainable engine for national development.
