MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia has successfully repatriated 174 Somali citizens from hazardous conditions in Libya, protecting them from threats posed by human trafficking networks and illegal detention .
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hassan Mohamed Ali, officially welcomed the returnees at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport upon their arrival .
Diplomatic Efforts Secure Citizens’ Release
This successful operation resulted from focused diplomatic efforts by the government. The initiative followed recent bilateral talks in Libya led by Foreign Minister Abdisalan Abdi Ali, through which authorities secured the freedom and safe passage of citizens who had experienced significant difficulties and exploitation .
Implementing the complex return operation demanded seamless coordination among multiple agencies. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Diaspora Department managed the operation in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the European Union, and the Somali Embassy in Tripoli .
Emergency Assistance and Medical Care
Upon their arrival, authorities implemented emergency measures, offering the returnees thorough medical examinations, temporary accommodation, and critical psychological assistance . Officials confirmed that the returnees received immediate medical screening, emergency food rations, and temporary shelter upon arrival at the airport .
The government is now developing comprehensive reintegration initiatives to help these individuals successfully join the domestic workforce .
Previous Repatriation Efforts
This latest repatriation builds on previous successful operations. In September 2025, the federal government airlifted 184 Somali citizens who had been stranded in Libya, with many evacuees having been trapped for months, some detained in overcrowded facilities while others were left stranded after failed attempts to transit toward Europe. Authorities at that time stated that the government would provide immediate assistance, including medical checks, psychosocial support, and temporary accommodation, to help returnees reintegrate into their communities .
Foreign Minister Visits Libya, Pledges Stronger Embassy Support
The repatriation effort follows a high-level diplomatic mission to Libya. Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali recently visited the Somali Embassy in Tripoli, where he urged the mission to strengthen consular services and prioritize support for vulnerable nationals. During the visit, the minister met with Ambassador Abdi Aden Diriye and embassy staff, receiving briefings on the situation of Somali citizens, including migrants and detainees facing difficult conditions .
Minister Abdisalam issued a directive to the embassy administration, calling for an immediate intensification of all measures intended to safeguard and defend Somali nationals under their responsibility. “The Federal Government maintains a complete, unwavering dedication to the rescue, legal protection, and ongoing assistance of its citizens, regardless of their global location,” the minister stated .
Somali Migrants Stranded in Libya Plead for Rescue
The desperate situation of Somali migrants in Libya has been well documented. In May 2025, dozens of Somali migrants were reported abandoned in Libya after being deserted by smugglers. Among the stranded was Nor Cadow from Baidoa, who spoke about the group’s worsening humanitarian situation. “We are suffering terribly. We have no food, shelter, or medical help,” he said. The migrants, many of whom were attempting to reach Europe, found themselves trapped in unsafe conditions, vulnerable to abuse, extortion, and violence .
Ongoing Commitment to Address Irregular Migration
Deputy Minister Hassan Mohamed Ali underscored the government’s determination to counter human trafficking networks and address the drivers of irregular migration. He stressed that similar evacuations would continue as Mogadishu ramps up efforts to bring back all citizens stuck in dire conditions abroad .
This operation underscores Mogadishu’s capacity to protect its citizens abroad while reducing the attractiveness of irregular migration by enhancing local economic prospects. The federal government has consistently emphasized that protecting Somali citizens abroad remains a top priority .
International Partnerships
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has stated that repatriation operations are part of broader efforts to assist citizens in distress and counter the risks posed by irregular migration and trafficking networks . The government continues to work with international partners, including the IOM and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), to provide assistance to vulnerable Somali migrants and facilitate their safe return home .
Authorities have urged Somali citizens to pursue legal migration channels and avoid the dangerous sea routes that have claimed countless lives. The government is also developing reintegration programs to help returnees successfully reintegrate into Somali society and contribute to the domestic workforce, thereby reducing the appeal of dangerous irregular migration journeys .
The successful repatriation of 174 citizens from Libya marks another step in the federal government’s ongoing efforts to protect its nationals abroad and address the root causes of irregular migration through enhanced economic opportunities at home .
