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Egyptian Migrants Find Opportunity in Tanzania, Diversifying from Traditional Western Routes

Egyptian Migrants Find Opportunity in Tanzania, Diversifying from Traditional Western Routes
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Ahmed Ginah, nicknamed the "Mayor of Egyptians in Dar-es-Salaam," left Egypt in 2017 and established his import-export company, Dream Trading, in Tanzania in 2021. He assists fellow Egyptian migrants, providing housing, employment opportunities, and translation services, focusing on those willing to work hard. His success story reflects a broader trend of Egyptians seeking opportunities in sub-Saharan Africa, driven by economic challenges in Egypt and a desire for alternatives to the often perilous journey to Europe.

The number of Egyptians in non-Arab African countries increased from 46,000 in 2017 to 54,000 in 2021, contrasting sharply with the significant number of Egyptians arriving in Italy via the Central Mediterranean route. This southward migration is fueled by economic factors and strengthened diplomatic and commercial ties between Egypt and several African nations. Many migrants maintain a circular migration pattern, returning to Egypt periodically. Other examples, such as Mohamed el-Shafie's cashew processing factories, highlight the diverse business ventures undertaken by Egyptian migrants in Tanzania, leveraging local resources and opportunities.

Impact Statement: The increasing migration of Egyptians to sub-Saharan Africa presents a significant shift in emigration patterns, offering economic opportunities for both migrants and host countries while challenging existing perceptions of migration routes and destinations.