On the occasion of International Family Remittances Day in Dakar, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) called for the strengthening of policies that enhance the impact of remittances sent by the Senegalese diaspora. These transfers exceeded 2.2 billion euros in 2022, representing almost 10 % of national GDP. Their importance in the rural economy is growing, especially in a country where many communities still lack access to financial services and effective state support.
During the event, representatives from government, the private sector and international organisations discussed strategies to transform remittances into tools for inclusive development. Proposals included boosting savings, productive investment, financial digitalisation and reducing remittance costs to below 3 % by 2030, as set out in the Sustainable Development Goals. IFAD country director in Senegal, Matteo Marchisio, stressed that remittances can go beyond immediate assistance, becoming pillars of sustainable growth.
From the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, Giovanni Grandi argued that these contributions are not just money, but human links that sustain the rural economic fabric. As Senegal prepares to participate in the upcoming International Conference on Financing for Development, the country is strengthening its role as an advocate for international cooperation that recognises the transformative value of migration. In this context, every euro sent represents not only family support, but also a commitment to a fairer and more balanced future.
Source: thevoiceofafrica.com; un.org | 16-06-2025