Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs It is a specialized, independent, non-profit media network that observes and follows up the Somali humanitarian scene
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MOGADISHU — Somali government on Thursday repatriated 14 Somali youth who had been detained in Algeria while attempting to migrate irregularly to Europe, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced.
The group, which includes 11 young men and three young women, had been arrested while traveling along one of the most perilous and heavily trafficked migration routes through North Africa. They were received at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu by senior government officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hamza Adan Hadow, and the Director of the Africa Department, Abdulkadir Burgal.
Algeria has increasingly become a key transit hub for Somali migrants seeking to reach Western Europe—often facing dire humanitarian conditions, including detention and abuse.
Upon their arrival, the returnees shared accounts of the hardships they faced in Algerian detention centers and expressed deep gratitude for the government’s intervention in securing their release and safe return.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Somali nationals abroad and ensuring their safe and dignified repatriation. “This initiative reflects the government’s responsibility to protect its citizens and its dedication to strengthening consular support systems,” said a ministry official.
The Somali government is also working closely with international partners to raise public awareness about the risks of irregular migration. Efforts are underway to provide Somali youth with better economic, educational, and employment opportunities to address the root causes driving migration.
This marks the second successful repatriation in recent weeks. In May, the Somali government repatriated nine young people from Algeria under similar circumstances.
Officials have reiterated their call for Somali youth to pursue legal, safe, and informed migration paths and to avoid the false promises and life-threatening risks associated with irregular migration routes.
Source: HOL Origin: view origin
