Djibouti(Mogadishu24)-The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Global Djibouti Diaspora have launched a workshop aimed at fostering collaboration and strengthening connections between Djibouti and its diaspora.

The initiative focuses on developing a national strategy and conducting a diaspora mapping exercise to better engage Djiboutians living abroad.

The Republic of Djibouti has witnessed increased emigration since the 1980s, with the Djiboutian diaspora now estimated at approximately 50,000 individuals, primarily residing in Europe, Canada, and North America.

This project seeks to address the expectations of both the government and its diaspora by creating a comprehensive strategy to engage Djiboutians abroad. The diaspora mapping exercise will help identify skills, resources, and opportunities to foster stronger connections and enhance contributions to national development.

While pilot initiatives are outside the scope of this project, IOM emphasized the importance of laying a foundation for sustainable engagement. “The Djiboutian diaspora represents a valuable asset for national development, and this workshop is a unique opportunity to build a framework for meaningful collaboration,” IOM stated.

The UK Embassy in Djibouti highlighted its support for the initiative, stating, “The Djiboutian diaspora are dynamic and talented. Uk is proud to support a platform for diaspora engagement through this initiative.”

The workshop marks a significant step toward leveraging the potential of the diaspora, contributing to economic growth, cultural exchange, and national progress.