In brief
French nationals of African descent, like Menka Gomis, are increasingly leaving France, driven by a mix of personal and societal challenges. Surveys reveal a growing trend of highly educated individuals seeking opportunities and safety back in Senegal, reflecting a complex migration phenomenon.
Born in France, Menka Gomis has made the significant decision to relocate to Senegal, the land of his parents. He embodies a larger trend of French Africans leaving France in search of better opportunities and a deeper connection to their roots, driven by a growing disillusionment with the prevailing racism and discrimination in France. Gomis, now 39, opened a travel agency in France that specializes in connecting people with their ancestral heritage, but he ultimately chose to move his operations to Senegal, feeling a strong sense of duty to his parents' homeland.In a recent interview, Gomis shared his experiences growing up in Marseille, where he endured daily racial slurs from a young age. He explains that his decision goes beyond just fulfilling an African dream; it is also about recognizing the immense potential within Africa itself. He views the continent as the "continent of the future," bustling with untouched opportunities waiting to be developed, reminiscent of the gold rush era in the Americas.The historical ties between France and Senegal are deep-rooted, shaped by the legacy of colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade. Recent BBC investigations have highlighted a significant migration to Europe, with many seeking asylum in France. However, there is also a reverse journey emerging, characterized by educated French nationals, particularly from Muslim backgrounds, seeking a more welcoming environment.The current political climate in France, marked by a rise in nationalism and stricter immigration policies under Prime Minister Michel Barnier, has contributed to an unsettling atmosphere for many ethnic minorities. There was a notable increase in racist incidents, alongside public outcry following police violence against racial minorities, intensifying feelings of insecurity among those living in France.Fanta Guirassy, a single mother and healthcare professional in France, echoed these sentiments, stating that the growing sense of danger is prompting her to relocate to Senegal. Her wake-up call came when her son faced police scrutiny simply for chatting with friends, reminding her of the systemic issues faced by families of color in France.Further compounding the challenges for individuals like Audrey Monzemba, who choose to wear headscarves, societal expectations in secular France clash with personal beliefs. Monzemba is seeking to move to Senegal to find the respect and acceptance of her faith that she feels has been denied in France.Among those making the similar move, Fatoumata Sylla's decision to start a business in Senegal signifies a reconnection to her family's heritage, although her brother Abdoul remains apprehensive about the move, questioning the authenticity of cultural connection when one has been raised away from their ancestral home.In Senegal, challenges remain, particularly for women navigating traditional gender roles in business. Salamata Konte, who left a lucrative banking position in Paris, highlights the hurdles she faces in both proving her worth as a CEO and fostering respect in a male-dominated industry. Despite these hurdles, Gomis and his peers remain optimistic, viewing their return to Senegal as both a reinvention and a return home, eager to build new lives in a place that resonates with their heritage.As this silent exodus continues, it raises important questions about identity, belonging, and the search for a place where people feel safe and valued.
