Diaspora Bonds et Industrie du Sport au Sénégal (Par Ndiaga Matar Ndiaye)
The idea raised by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko of using diaspora bonds as a financing mechanism deserves particular attention, both for Senegal and for Africa in general, but also from a European perspective.
It is a financial instrument through which a state directly calls on its diaspora to mobilize savings for development. India and Israel have successfully experimented with it, and several African countries are now considering using it as a structuring lever.
From the European Union's perspective, such an innovation could, in my opinion, be viewed positively, as it builds on existing resources and helps strengthen the link between diasporas and their countries of origin.
Today, remittances from the Senegalese diaspora reach approximately €2.8 billion per year. A €500 million issue would represent approximately 18% of these annual flows, the equivalent of an average contribution of €700 per member of the diaspora (assuming an estimated 700,000 Senegalese abroad).
This instrument represents a strong lever for economic and social transformation for many sectors (Health, Education, Infrastructure, etc.). It is therefore a great opportunity for the sports industry sector.
Sport in Senegal is much more than just entertainment: it's a national passion, a vehicle for unity, and a tremendous source of opportunity for young people. Our football, basketball, wrestling, and athletics champions make the country shine around the world, but behind these successes lies a reality: the sports industry remains underfunded and insufficiently structured.
It is in this context that the idea of a diaspora bond dedicated to sport takes on its full meaning. The Senegalese diaspora, deeply attached to its country's sporting image, could become one of the main investors in a sector that speaks directly to its heart. Imagine, for example, a €100 million fundraising specifically geared toward sports development: an instrument that transforms pride into action, and identity attachment into concrete investment.
The funds raised could be used to:
• Modernize our infrastructure: build or renovate regional stadiums, build performance centers and academies for young talents, create multipurpose spaces that host sport, culture and training.
• Develop an economy around sport: launch a “Made in Senegal” sports textile sector to produce equipment and jerseys, support start-ups specializing in sports technologies or e-sport, train young people in sports careers, from management to sports medicine.
• Increase international attractiveness: host regional or international competitions, promote sports tourism with training courses and centers, modernize and promote Senegalese wrestling as a cultural heritage and tourist product.
Because every victory for Senegal, every moment of sporting glory, is deeply felt by our compatriots abroad. Investing in a diaspora bond dedicated to sport gives the diaspora the opportunity to transform its pride into concrete support.
It also means offering young people in the country real alternatives to exile, by creating jobs and new prospects in a sector that speaks naturally to them.
Such a project also falls within the priorities of the Europe-Africa partnership: youth employment, social inclusion, and cultural promotion. Sport is a vector of peace and integration. Supporting its development contributes to the stability and dynamism of societies. With the support of institutions such as the EIB or the AFD, a diaspora bond for sport would gain even more credibility and appeal.
In conclusion, sport is already one of Senegal's finest showcases. Turning this passion into a true industry is now within reach. A diaspora bond dedicated to sport would transform the attachment of Senegalese people around the world into a driving force for development for the country's youth, economy, and international influence.
Ndiaga Matar Ndiaye
Sports and Development Consultant
Commentaires (12)
Au Sénégal nous avons plein de spécialistes en théorie .... demandez lui s'il a déjà expérimenté ses idées il te dira certainement non ....
On en a plusieurs dans tous les domaines et ce sont ces gens promptes à aller sur nos plateaux télé radio plus bavard que les vrais experts
Des mini tres qui portent des rolex caisse noire etc
You make me laugh
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