This paper analyzes the conditions of domestic workers of Malian origin in Niamey (the capital of Niger). It examines the motives for the migrants’ adventure, their itineraries, the multiple strategies for adapting to the socio-professional realities of the host environment, and their mode of organization. The study is based on a qualitative method using semi-structured interviews, life stories and direct observation. Other sources of information were supplemented by written, audio and audio-visual documents. The sample consisted of female employees and employers. The scientific interest of the work lies in highlighting the capacity of a foreign community, female and young at that, to enter a competitive professional field, and then to occupy a quasi-hegemonic position in it, in well-defined households. The paper found that the primary motivation for the maids is the search for income to support themselves and their village relatives. Employment is acquired through intermediation, conducted informally and often at great sacrifice.
Keywords: Migrant Women, Domestic Workers, Work, Profession, Employers
