Mobilizing diaspora potential to boost livelihood opportunities in agribusiness

Diasporas around the world are becoming increasingly involved in development issues such as economic growth and poverty reduction. Often, their members play a key role in the socio-economic development of their country of origin, including in the agribusiness sector.  

As part of the Global Diaspora Summit organized by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the FAO Liaison Office in Brussels hosted a side-event on mobilizing diaspora potential for boosting livelihood opportunities in agribusiness. The event provided a space to share knowledge on improving the impact of diasporas' financial and non-financial contributions to the agrifood sector in countries of origin. 
 
Highlighting the significant contributions of diasporas to agriculture and rural development, the Africa-Europe Diaspora Development Platform (ADEPT) presented approaches to empowering diasporas as agents of rural development, helping them to contribute to food security and employment generation. 

Director of the FAO Liaison Office in Brussels Raschad Al-Khafaji described the role played by FAO as a bridge to facilitate diasporas’ contributions. “Over the past few years, FAO has increased its efforts to maximize the benefits of migration for rural communities, including by supporting the development of diasporas’ contribution to the agribusiness sector,” he noted. 

FAO Representative in Uganda Antonio Querido explained FAO’s role in strengthening the potential of the agriculture sector to boost investments back home. He acknowledged the successful collaboration with the Ugandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the interest shown by key national stakeholders. 

Closing remarks were made by her Excellency, the Ambassador of Uganda in Belgium Mirjam Blaak Sow. She highlighted the importance of strengthening diaspora skills in modern farming and the work that could be expanded in this area by mobilizing community platforms.