Approximately 40% of members of the African diaspora are considering returning, motivated by economic opportunities, entrepreneurship, and the dynamism of sectors such as digital technology, agriculture, and education. This trend is supported by growing political stability and attractive career prospects on the continent.
Role in Economic Development
Diaspora talent brings skills, technological know-how, and international networks, essential for innovation, job creation, and investment. They hold key positions in companies, launch startups, and invest in emerging African markets, thereby fostering local growth.
Their return also promotes knowledge transfer and the modernization of management practices.
Challenges for the Diaspora
Despite their potential, return migration can be hampered by obstacles such as skills mismatches, economic instability, or a lack of suitable infrastructure. The success of return migration often depends on support, complementarity with local stakeholders, and incentive-based public policies.
The return of talented people from the African diaspora is a powerful driver of economic development, provided it is supported by appropriate strategies and close collaboration with local stakeholders.
Best practices for a successful return to Africa project
- Carefully plan your project: Conduct in-depth field research to adapt your idea to the local market, as the internet is not enough to understand the realities on the ground. Use and develop your network: Relationships are crucial for identifying the right partners and opportunities, especially in a vast and diverse African context.
- Have solid savings: Plan for a financial reserve equivalent to approximately one year’s local salary to live comfortably without immediate income.
- Transition phase with local employment: Find temporary employment to adapt to the local context before launching your entrepreneurial project.
- Be humble and adapt to the local culture: Understand and respect local cultural differences and ways of doing things.
- Prepare for the return over several years: Visit the country several times before your final return to immerse yourself in the context, build contacts, and test your project.
- Involve the family gradually: Prepare for the return together to facilitate family adjustment.
- Focus on promising sectors: Target sectors with high demand and economic opportunities to maximize your chances of success.
These practices promote successful reintegration and have a positive impact on local economic development.
