Mauritania's government has set 29-31 October 2026 for its inaugural Forum of Mauritanian Communities Abroad in Nouakchott, aiming to strengthen ties with the diaspora and address key concerns identified through extensive consultations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation with Africa and Mauritanians Abroad has officially announced that the first Forum of Mauritanian Communities Abroad will take place in Nouakchott from 29 to 31 October 2026. The event will be held under the high patronage of President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, reflecting the government's commitment to engaging with its diaspora.
According to the ministry, the decision to fix the forum's date follows a broad consultation process involving direct meetings with Mauritanian communities in 22 countries across four continents. These consultations included representatives from associations, federations, scientific and professional experts, business leaders, and individuals with a stake in diaspora affairs.
Consultation Process and Key Issues
The ministry highlighted that the outcomes of these consultations were discussed during a dedicated reflection day on 30 June, which brought together government sectors, parliamentarians, and community organization representatives. This process enabled the identification of the main demands and concerns of Mauritanians abroad, which have since been forwarded to the relevant authorities for further study and action.
The forum is intended to serve as a national platform for dialogue and coordination between public authorities and Mauritanian communities worldwide. It will provide an opportunity to address the aspirations and challenges faced by the diaspora, and to explore practical solutions and mechanisms to improve their situation and reinforce their connection with Mauritania.
Forum Agenda and Broader Context
The agenda will focus on developing policies and institutional frameworks for diaspora affairs, strengthening social and legal protections for Mauritanians abroad, and leveraging diaspora expertise for knowledge transfer and national development. The ministry has pledged to ensure broad and balanced participation, reflecting the geographic, professional, and social diversity of Mauritanian communities overseas.
This initiative comes as Mauritania continues to address issues affecting its citizens abroad, including recent efforts to clarify administrative processes such as the criteria for doctor transfers. The upcoming forum is expected to further institutionalize dialogue and policy development for the diaspora.
