In West Africa, diasporas play a growing role in the economic and social development of their countries of origin. Their contributions, particularly through remittances, productive investments, skills transfer, and community initiatives, constitute a strategic resource for the region’s states. According to World Bank data, remittances to sub-Saharan Africa have reached record levels in recent years, often exceeding official development assistance and foreign direct investment in some countries. 

In this regional context, Mali stands out for its particularly active diaspora, particularly in France, which hosts the largest Malian community abroad. This diaspora contributes significantly to the country’s economic, social, and cultural fabric through regular remittances, local development projects, investments in key sectors, and transnational solidarity actions. The importance of remittances for the Malian economy has increased over the past ten years. In 2024, remittances to Mali reached USD 1.2 billion, representing 5.56% of GDP. In 2025 , formal transfers represented 5.6% of Mali’s GDP (World Bank, 2020), excluding the informal sector.  

However, despite their importance, these contributions remain poorly documented, insufficiently coordinated, and sometimes underutilized in public policies. ​Aware of these issues, the Government of Mali created a dedicated ministry in 2004, now called the Ministry of Malians Living Abroad and African Integration (MMEIA), and adopted its National Migration Policy (PONAM) in 2014. It is supported in its efforts by its technical and financial partners, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The result is a plurality of national and international, public and private actions in favor of individual or collective, productive or non-productive investment by Malian diasporas. Of particular note is the holding in July 2025 of the International Diaspora Forum (FID), an ambitious forum dedicated to productive investment by the diaspora. This event brought together members of the Malian diaspora, institutional stakeholders, as well as private and public investors, with the aim of promoting concrete investment opportunities and creating strategic synergies. Key objectives of this forum include achieving better coordination between stakeholders, increasing the value of the diaspora’s skills and resources, and increasing investment and partnership initiatives for the country. Furthermore, developing a roadmap based on a concerted approach and concrete recommendations would facilitate the implementation of targeted, sustainable, and inclusive actions, while strengthening the adaptability of national policies to the real needs of the Malian diaspora and development. 

It is with this in mind that the present mission of “  mapping and evaluating trends in contributions and investments of the Malian diaspora in France  ” is carried out within the framework of the project “Streamlining the engagement of the diaspora to catalyze private investments and entrepreneurship with a view to greater resilience” .   

This project, whose main objective is to strengthen private sector development, economic growth, and social and climate resilience in eight African states in transition, including Mali, through their diaspora. This objective is aligned with IOM’s approach, which considers migration as a lever for development for all stakeholders.  

This intervention targets eight (8) transition states with a significant diaspora: Gambia, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Somalia, South Sudan, Togo and Zimbabwe, selected from 22 African transition states identified based on the existence of replicable diaspora mobilization initiatives for private sector development. 

Education

Have completed at least a Master’s degree in economics, social sciences, marketing, business administration, agribusiness, environmental engineering, international trade, sustainable development or a related field from an accredited academic institution.  

Experience

Proven experience of at least 5 years in the collection and analysis of quantitative data; 

Proven experience in collecting and analyzing qualitative data; 

Proven experience of at least 5 years in project consulting, particularly in the field of migration and/or development; 

Demonstrated skills and experience in quantitative and qualitative research methods; 

Strong conceptual and analytical skills; 

Excellent writing skills in French and the ability to deliver quality studies within the required deadlines; 

Good experience in research related to diaspora engagement is considered a major asset. 

• The consultant will not receive mission expenses. These expenses will be directly borne by the consultant and must be included in the proposal. 

• Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
• Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
• Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
• Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.

• Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
• Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
• Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
• Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
• Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.