1 Comment Following the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the NCRA team issued identity documents to 145 Sierra Leonean migrant returnees at Old Lungi International Airport on October 7, 2025.
This initiative marks the first implementation of the partnership, which aims to streamline identity verification and support the reintegration of vulnerable returnees from Mauritania.
Many returnees had been stranded due to economic instability and border disruptions, and without proper identification, faced barriers to accessing essential social services.
The returnees, facilitated through IOM’s Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) program supported by the European Union, received free National ID Cards and Birth Certificates on the spot from the NCRA’s mobile enrollment team.
Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi highlighted the significance of the MoU, noting that the collaboration with IOM ensures returning Sierra Leoneans are not only welcomed home but are equipped with the tools to rebuild their lives. “These documents are the foundation for their dignity and opportunities,” he said, aligning with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of inclusive governance.
Returnees expressed gratitude to the NCRA and IOM for facilitating their swift reintegration, stating they are “looking forward to starting life all over again.”
According to NCRA, the airport-based delivery is the opening phase of a broader plan targeting 1,000 beneficiaries. The initiative underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment, in partnership with IOM and other stakeholders, to combat statelessness, provide universal ID coverage, and ensure no citizen is left behind.
Hmmm..but we are challenged with acquiring this all important documents as citizens resident in Sierra Leone 😀😀😀