The 2026 International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR) celebration in Mali brought together government institutions, financial service providers, diaspora organizations, development partners, entrepreneurs and young people to explore how remittances can be transformed from social support into productive investments that create jobs and economic opportunities.
The event held under the theme: “Transforming Social Remittances into Productive Investment”, was organized by AgriVision Sahel Network (AVS) in partnership with LuxDev, the General Delegation of Malians Abroad (DGME), the Union of Ambassadors (UDA), DiaspoForDev and other stakeholders.
Activities took place from 12 to 17 June 2026 in Bamako, including financial education and entrepreneurship training sessions on 13 and 15 June, followed by the official celebration on 16 June at the International Conference Centre of Bamako (CICB).
During the official celebration on 16 June, participants exchanged ideas, experiences and practical solutions to unlock the development potential of remittances. Through high-level discussions and interactive panels, the event reinforced a shared commitment to helping remittance-receiving families, young entrepreneurs and return migrants turn financial transfers into lasting opportunities for economic growth.
With remittances representing one of Mali’s most significant sources of external financing, discussions focused on how these flows can move beyond consumption and serve as a powerful driver of entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, agricultural development and youth employment.
The programme reached 4,195 people through in-person and online awareness activities, while 258 young people received certified training in financial literacy, savings, business planning and entrepreneurship. Women represented 37% of the trained participants, including strong participation from return migrants and youth from migrant families.
