The crisis persists, and the brain drain intensifies. However, there is a potential solution – reversing brain drain. This is the question that the International Organization of Migration (IOM) has been exploring in Somalia.
The IOM’s Migration in Africa for Development Programme (MIDA) selects members of the Somali diaspora who are experts in their chosen fields and places them in local hospitals, schools, and national ministries to build Somalia’s self-sufficiency. Over the past 20 years, MIDA has sponsored the return of over 400 Somalis from 17 different countries, working in various fields such as education, health, climate action, urban planning, and the rule of law.
One of the remarkable aspects of MIDA is that it capitalizes on the diaspora’s existing desire to return to their country of origin. The Somali diaspora, which consists of over 2 million individuals, plays an integral role in the country’s economy through remittances. MIDA goes beyond a purely economic understanding of their contributions by emphasizing their technical skills, expertise, and international networks. The diaspora serves as bridges, ambassadors, and drivers of change and development actors.
While MIDA has operated across various sectors, the education sector has been a primary focus. In Somalia, where there were no programs offering doctoral degrees in education, Somalis had to seek educational opportunities abroad. However, through MIDA, local professionals and diaspora members have collaborated to improve the curriculum for aspiring teachers and establish partnerships with universities abroad.
Partnerships like this ensure long-term impact, even after the diaspora professionals leave. The skills transfer, although challenging, is crucial for sustainable development. Adapting expertise to the Somali context is essential, and local professionals play a vital role in providing the diaspora with the necessary perspective.
Despite MIDA’s efforts, Somalis continue to leave the country in search of better opportunities. Dr. Salad hopes for a future where there will be no brain drain to reverse. The hope lies in inspiring younger generations to have faith in the country’s potential and to stay.
Source: https://news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2025/08/1165666
