Behind the recent recognition of Mafal Saala Dieng, a Senegalese man living in the United States since 2012, lies an ambition far greater than personal success. Based in New York, where he initially went to pursue his studies before turning to business, the man has become a leading figure within the Senegalese diaspora. His commitment earned him official recognition from the Mayor of New York, a distinction he considers not only a personal honor, but also a celebration of his country through his actions.

Support for newcomers

Early on, Mafal Saala Dieng distinguished himself by assisting his compatriots who had recently arrived in the United States, often destitute and without direction. The so-called "Nicaragua" phenomenon, which saw many young Senegalese transit through complex migration routes to reach America, exacerbated this situation. "Many find themselves isolated, without housing, without resources, and sometimes without contact with their loved ones," he said in an interview with Seneweb.

Faced with this distress, Mafal took the initiative to mobilize support, thanks to his reputation acquired through social networks and his concrete actions. "In this area, I call on people of good will to support these young people. I do what I can, but the needs are enormous," confides the entrepreneur serving the community. At the same time, Mafal Saala Dieng has developed a mini-shopping center, occupied mainly by Senegalese people, which offers them opportunities for work and integration. This space, which hosts various types of businesses, is today a symbol of collective success. It is this initiative that particularly caught the attention of local American authorities and justified his distinction. "I share this recognition with Senegal. It proves that, even abroad, we can be useful to our country and to the city that welcomes us," he emphasizes, before calling on his compatriots to persevere and strictly respect the law.

A man of challenges and convictions

Furthermore, he defines himself as a "man of challenge." Mafal says he doesn't wait for Senegalese authorities to act. "I am a patriot who gets involved without expecting anything in return. If other Senegalese are inspired by this, it will be beneficial for the country," he says. However, he believes that if the state joins these initiatives, the benefits would be even greater for the diaspora and the national economy. Perspectives on Youth and Investment To the young people who remain in Senegal, Mafal sends a clear message: opportunities exist everywhere, but they require boldness and an entrepreneurial spirit. "It was when I came to America that I understood that in Senegal, too, there are untapped job niches," he says. For him, the diaspora must not only invest in host countries to facilitate the adaptation of newcomers, but also constantly think about supporting the Senegalese economy. "We need to learn to organize ourselves. Unfortunately, the Senegalese manage to get together for celebrations, but not enough to buy businesses or buildings, which would have a real impact," he laments.

The State's failures

In his analysis, Mafal points to a lack of a clear policy from the Senegalese government toward its diaspora. "There are funds dedicated to us, but we don't understand anything about them. Our authorities are engaged in diplomacy, but not in social work. They don't encourage our visions abroad, nor do they facilitate the return of those who want to invest or work in the country," he laments.

Before hoping that the new Senegalese authorities will put in place more appropriate mechanisms, so that the efforts of Senegalese abroad find a better echo and contribute in a more structured manner to national development. Through his career and his commitment, Mafal Saala Dieng embodies this generation of Senegalese from the diaspora who, despite the difficulties, invest themselves tirelessly for the well-being of their compatriots.

His ambition is clear: to see an organized, united diaspora recognized as a true economic and social force for Senegal.