Diasporas and Entrepreneurship : engines of development in the Francophone world

By the editorial staff

At the dawn of the XIXᵉ Francophonie Summit, which will be held in France on October 4-5, 2024, under the theme “Create, innovate, and do business in French,” the contribution of diasporas to the development of the Francophone space emerges as a key topic. On September 26, during an Expertise Meeting hosted by Expertise France, major actors from the diaspora and entrepreneurship sectors will gather to discuss the challenges of diaspora entrepreneurship under the theme: “Creation, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship: How do Diasporas Contribute to Development in the Francophone Space?”

Diasporas: Engines of development

Diaspora entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in the economic and social growth of their countries of origin. According to the World Bank, in 2023, Africa had more than 250 million entrepreneurs, 58% of whom were women, representing 60% of the continent’s GDP. This dynamic is largely supported by members of the diaspora, who bring with them expertise, financial resources, and transnational networks.

The potential of Francophone diasporas, particularly African ones, is immense. Whether through launching innovative projects, creating jobs, or mobilizing capital, diasporas are powerful drivers of sustainable growth in their home countries. These entrepreneurs benefit from a dual cultural foundation and a broader vision, enabling them to navigate both local and international market demands.

A lever for international cooperation

During this event, several speakers, such as Éric Vincent Guichard, founder of Homestrings, and Kara Diaby, co-founder of Repat Africa, will share their experiences and discuss the challenges of mobilizing the diaspora as a development lever. Discussions will focus on key questions: How can the diaspora be involved in the development projects of their countries of origin? What support mechanisms can be established to promote entrepreneurship within diasporas?

The debate will be structured into two main parts. The first will focus on the diaspora as a lever for international cooperation, while the second will explore ways to involve all stakeholders—both public and private—in this mobilization dynamic. These discussions will be enriched by feedback from figures like Marwa Moula, founder of Iley’Com, and Teddy Kossoko, creator of Game Hub.

Concrete initiatives

Innovative projects like MEET Africa 2, a program launched by Expertise France in partnership with the European Union, are already showing tangible results. This project aims to encourage entrepreneurship among African diasporas living in Europe by facilitating the transfer of skills and investments to their countries of origin.

Moreover, diasporas play a key role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in reducing inequalities and promoting economic growth. Their active participation in societies around the world enables them to build strong bridges between their host countries and their home countries, thereby facilitating inclusive and sustainable development.

For more information : Les RDV de l’Expertise-Tunis