IN AFRICA II. The strategic framework for managing migration MIGRATION FOR DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA 2.3 Brain drain “Brain drain” occurs when significant numbers of highly skilled nationals leave their State of origin to seek livelihoods abroad. This phenomenon can have detrimental effects on the economies of States of origin countries by hampering the growth and development of industries and service sectors where highly skilled nationals are needed. An estimated 70,000 skilled professionals emigrate from Africa each year. The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) specifically recognises the reversal of “brain drain” as a sectoral priority. Countering “brain drain” and mitigating its effects on national economies are therefore important policy objectives for African countries. Recommended strategies i. Counter the exodus of skilled nationals, particularly health professionals, by promoting the NEPAD strategy for retention of Africa’s human capacities and generating genderresponsive economic development programmes to provide gainful employment, professional development and educational opportunities to qualified nationals in their home countries. ii. Counter the effects of “brain drain” by encouraging nationals abroad to contribute to the development of their State of origin, through financial and human capital transfers, such as short and long term return migration; the transfer of skills, knowledge and technology, including in the context of programmes such as the IOM MIDA (Migration in Development for Africa) Programme, and activities of ILO, WHO and other relevant agencies. iii. Establish policies for the replacement of qualified persons who have left the State of origin, including strategies to attract the Diaspora, and retention policies. iv. Implement brain gain strategies that encourage: a. The development of skills of migrant workers through international education and work opportunities, and their return to their countries or origin; b. The temporary return of qualified nationals in the Diaspora to alleviate skill shortages in their countries of origin; c. The contribution of human resources on the continent by facilitating regional and continental mobility of skilled professionals. 39