"Silent Exodus: The Movement of French Africans to Senegal"

Increasing numbers of French Africans are leaving France for Senegal as they seek to escape rising racism and discrimination. Menka Gomis, a travel agency owner, embodies this "silent exodus," hoping to build a promising future in the land of his heritage.

In recent years, an emerging trend among French Africans has been gaining attention – a "silent exodus" towards Senegal, fueled by frustrations with rising racism and discrimination in France. Menka Gomis is one of the individuals making this significant shift in pursuit of opportunities and a connection to his ancestral roots.

Menka, born in France to Senegalese parents, has witnessed firsthand the struggles and discrimination faced by people of African descent in French society. Running a travel agency that offers packages primarily connecting clients to Africa, Menka plans to shift base to Senegal, a nation he regards as the "continent of the future." His motivations extend beyond simply chasing a dream; he feels a deep sense of responsibility to his parents' homeland and is optimistic about the opportunities awaiting him.

A broader BBC Africa Eye investigation has revealed a nuanced understanding of the sentiment driving these relocations. Many French Africans, particularly those with links to Muslim backgrounds, are increasingly disillusioned with the socio-political climate in France. The rise of right-wing nationalism and the wave of legislation targeting immigration has strained sentiments within the community, prompting some, like Fanta Guirassy and Audrey Monzemba, to reconsider their lives in France.

The societal landscape in France, marked by unrest and riots stemming from police violence against minority communities, has pushed individuals to prioritize safety and belonging. With 91% of surveyed black individuals in France citing experiences of racial discrimination, it’s clear that the emotional toll is significant.

Audrey Monzemba emphasizes the importance of raising her daughter in a more accepting environment, where respect for personal beliefs can flourish. “What I want is to be able to thrive in an environment that respects my faith,” Monzemba declared, showcasing the recurring theme of seeking a supportive atmosphere away from the shadows of societal prejudice.

Within this migration narrative, the links between France and Senegal find their roots in history, from the legacy of colonialism to present socioeconomic exchanges. Reports indicate that there is also a brain drain effect occurring, where highly educated individuals opt to move away seeking more welcoming environments.

As the trend continues, figures like Fatoumata Sylla are emblematic of those wanting to return to their heritage while establishing careers that resonate with their cultural identities. Though some, like her brother Abdoul Sylla, question the necessity of this journey, the moves are often reflective of deeper cultural reconnections shaped by ongoing conversations about identity and legacy.

Accompanying voices from Senegal, such as that of Salamata Konte, illustrate the complexities faced by returning individuals - initial feelings of rejection and challenges in adapting to the local business landscape offer a stark contrast to the hopes of a brighter future.

As Menka Gomis anticipates gaining his Senegalese citizenship and expanding his business, his story, alongside those of many others, frames a significant moment of reckoning for a generation grappling with identity, belonging, and the quest for opportunity. As this silent exodus continues, it remains to be seen how these ties between nations evolve in the coming years.