Mauritania is set to host its first national forum for its diaspora, bringing together citizens from around the world to discuss their role in the country's development. The forum, scheduled for October 31, 2026, is the culmination of consultation tours conducted in 28 countries across four continents. The government aims to go beyond mere consultation and establish lasting institutional frameworks and mobilize the economic, social, and cultural capital of its diaspora.
President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani has himself called on Mauritanian competencies abroad to contribute to the country's development. One of the voices responding to this call is Cheikh Amadou Ba, president of the Council for Intercultural Dialogue. In an interview, Ba emphasized that Mauritanians living abroad are not just demographic extensions of the country but can be a global network serving development, diplomacy, dialogue, and peace.
Ba received the president's call with particular sensitivity, highlighting the need for Mauritania to tap into the expertise, knowledge, and competencies of its diaspora. He stressed that the diaspora can be a partner in development and a vector of peace, and that institutions and mechanisms must be put in place to ensure their participation. Ba proposed a Charter, a consultative council, a "competency passport," and programs for youth to strengthen the diaspora's role.
According to Ba, the wealth of Mauritania lies not only in its natural resources but also in its citizens abroad, including doctors, engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs. He proposed a "national global partnership" that would harness the skills and expertise of the diaspora. A platform for national communities and competencies, with a database and mapping, can serve as the foundation for this network.
Ba also suggested a "community diplomacy" program, "Mauritania, a bridge for dialogue and peace," which would mobilize diaspora competencies for intercultural and interfaith dialogue, combating hate speech, and promoting moderation and coexistence. This program would involve partnerships with cultural, religious, academic, and civil institutions.
Ba emphasized that Mauritania's historical and scientific heritage in religious sciences, Arabic language, and social coexistence can be a bridge rather than a barrier. He proposed an annual European forum for Mauritanian competencies and intercultural dialogue, which would bring together universities, entrepreneurs, research centers, and cultural and religious institutions.
To ensure continuity, Ba suggested establishing a superior consultative council for Mauritanian diaspora and competencies, which would bring together experts, youth, women, entrepreneurs, and community representatives. The council would have six commissions focusing on diplomacy, economy, education, culture, youth, and consular services.
Key points
- The Mauritanian government aims to establish lasting institutional frameworks to harness the potential of its diaspora for national development.
- Cheikh Amadou Ba proposes a Charter, a consultative council, and a "competency passport" to strengthen the diaspora's role in development.
- The diaspora can contribute to Mauritania's development not only through financial remittances but also through their expertise, experience, and networks.
