The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Somalia has announced that Somalis are more prone to human trafficking because of the multiple crises facing it.
This year, Somalia is grappling with COVID-19, locust invasion, and flash floods that have killed and displaced many Somalis.
Consequently, Isaac Munyae, IOM’s Program Manager for Migrant Protection and Assistance, believes they are more likely to fall victims to human trafficking.
The Federal Government of Somalia has admitted that human trafficking has existed in the country for decades.
IOM discovered that Somalia is not only a source and transit but also a destination for human trafficking.
“In the past, Somalis have been trafficked across its borders with Kenya, South Sudan, and Sudan but this is likely with the emergencies it is handling simultaneously today,” Munyae said.
IOM also added that the fact that 1,711 COVID-19 cases have already been reported in the country as of May 27 means Somalis are unable to access basic services.
Such situations make Somalis highly susceptible to the illicit trade.
Furthermore, the UN Refugee Agency said Somalia has over 2.6 million displaced individuals after decades of armed conflicts, drought, climate-related disasters, and Al-Shabaab insurgency.