On Monday, 145 Somali nationals arrived back home following their repatriation from Libya through the joint efforts of multiple governments and international organisations.
Their repatriation underscores Somalia’s ongoing commitment to assisting its citizens stranded abroad.
This operation, facilitated through the Voluntary Humanitarian Return (VHR) program and funded by the European Union, reflects a series of similar efforts in recent months.
In December 2024, 161 Somali migrants were repatriated from Libya, with 74 returning to Hargeisa and 87 to Mogadishu.
In December 2024, 147 individuals were brought back, 31 to Hargeisa and 116 to Mogadishu.
In October 2024, 164 citizens were repatriated, with 55 arriving in Hargeisa and 109 in Mogadishu.
These coordinated efforts, involving the Somali government, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), aim to address the challenges of irregular migration and ensure the safe return and reintegration of Somali nationals.
The VHR program provides not only safe passage but also reintegration support to help returnees rebuild their lives.
The Somali government’s collaboration with international partners highlights a steadfast commitment to protecting its citizens and addressing migration challenges through cooperative efforts.