On July 28 and 29, 2026, Niamey will host the second edition of the Nigerien Diaspora Forum, a major event organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Nigeriens Abroad. The gathering aims to position the diaspora as a key driver of the country’s economic and social progress.
Under the patronage of President General Abdourahamane Tiani, this forum aligns with the Refondation initiative spearheaded by Niger’s leadership to reshape the nation’s future.
Empowering the diaspora for national transformation
The 2026 forum will take place at the Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, with the central theme: “The role of the Nigerien diaspora in driving economic and social development within the Refondation framework.”
This event will serve as a vital platform for dialogue between Nigeriens living abroad, public institutions, technical and financial partners, and private sector actors. The goal is to harness the diaspora’s skills, expertise, and resources to accelerate national growth.
The forum will also explore practical mechanisms to boost productive investments, facilitate knowledge transfer, and enhance the participation of Nigeriens overseas in the country’s major transformation projects.
Two days of strategic discussions in Niamey
Over two days, participants will examine opportunities and challenges tied to the diaspora’s role in building a stronger Niger. Key discussions will focus on strengthening connections between overseas-based professionals and the nation’s developmental needs.
The event is designed to foster sustainable partnerships between government bodies, investors, entrepreneurs, and diaspora members, ensuring long-term collaboration.
Leveraging global talent for Niger’s Refondation
Through this initiative, the government reaffirms its commitment to treating the diaspora as a strategic ally in the Refondation process. Authorities are banking on the professional experience, expertise, and investment capacity of Nigeriens abroad to support the country’s economic and social ambitions.
The forum, scheduled to begin on July 28 at the Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, seeks to deepen ties between Niger and its expatriates, transforming their engagement into a sustainable engine for progress.
