The Malian government has initiated a workshop to enhance the capacity of stakeholders in the field of migration, focusing on data collection, analysis, and dissemination. The event, which kicked off on September 24, 2026, was presided over by Doudou Ben Béchir Niang, Technical Adviser to the Minister of Malians Living Abroad and African Integration. The workshop aims to equip participants with the necessary skills to effectively collect, analyze, and utilize migration data.
The workshop is part of a broader initiative to improve the governance of migration in Mali. According to Niang, migration is deeply ingrained in the country's economic, social, and cultural history. He emphasized that the mobility of Malians has shaped the country's territories, communities, and international relations. The Technical Adviser highlighted the importance of accurate and up-to-date migration data to inform policy decisions and ensure effective governance.
The three-day workshop will cover fundamental concepts of migration and mechanisms for data collection. Participants from Bamako and Koulikoro will engage in discussions and training sessions to enhance their understanding of migration trends and patterns. The initiative is expected to continue in Kayes and Ségou, aiming to bring technical capacities closer to territorial realities.
The Malian government recognizes the significance of migration data in informing policy decisions. Niang stressed that the country's sovereignty depends on its ability to make informed decisions based on accurate data. The Technical Adviser emphasized that the government must be able to understand and anticipate migration trends to develop effective policies.
The Director-General of the Centre d'information et de gestion des migrations (Cigem), Dr. Aboubacrine Aguissa, outlined the expected outcomes of the workshop. He hopes that participants will be equipped with the skills to design and implement data collection systems, produce and interpret indicators, and present results effectively.
The representative of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Mohamed Kane, highlighted the importance of reliable and accessible migration data. He emphasized that such data is crucial for effective migration governance and result-oriented policies. Kane noted that the IOM is committed to supporting Mali in its efforts to improve migration data collection and analysis.
The workshop is a significant step towards enhancing Mali's capacity to manage migration effectively. The government aims to ensure that the country's migration policies are informed by accurate data and that the rights of Malians living abroad are protected. The event is expected to contribute to the country's development and its integration into the regional and international community.
Key points
- The Malian government has launched a workshop to enhance the capacity of stakeholders in migration data collection and analysis.
- The initiative aims to improve migration governance and inform policy decisions with accurate data.
- The workshop is part of a broader effort to strengthen Mali's capacity to manage migration effectively.
