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The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the UN Migration Agency, has facilitated the issuance of 700 National Identity Cards and approximately 300 birth certificates to Sierra Leoneans who previously travelled abroad and later returned through the Migration Protection, Return, and Reintegration Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa.
The initiative, which is funded by the European Union, aims to empower young returnees with market-driven and entrepreneurial skills, promoting decent employment and business opportunities.
The programme is designed to improve the lives of returnees by equipping them with the necessary tools for sustainable reintegration into their communities.
Speaking at the event, Mohamed M. Massaquoi, Executive Director of NCRA, said the government has a responsibility to care for, identify, and protect all Sierra Leonean citizens, wherever they may be. He expressed gratitude to IOM for their continued support in ensuring the safe return, protection, and welfare of Sierra Leoneans abroad.
“Sierra Leone’s laws have evolved, and as citizens, it is important for everyone to possess basic legal documents such as National Identity Cards and birth certificates,” Massaquoi added.
Dr. Pauline Macharia, IOM Officer-in-Charge, asserted that the programme aims to support returning migrants and assist them in achieving sustainable reintegration.
She stressed that migration is not inherently negative and that IOM has been actively providing services to both outgoing and returning migrants.
Several beneficiaries shared their experiences during the programme.
Joseph Moyeba, who travelled through Niger under challenging conditions, expressed gratitude for receiving his National Identity Card. He urged young people to remain focused on opportunities in Sierra Leone and avoid risky journeys abroad without proper documentation.
Mariatu Kamara, who had travelled to Nigeria and attempted twice to cross into Tunisia before being deported, also welcomed the initiative. She emphasized the difficulties of migrating abroad and encouraged youths to prioritize opportunities within Sierra Leone.
Overall, participants expressed satisfaction with the programme, noting that IOM’s collaboration with NCRA has made it easier for returnees to obtain crucial identity documents for themselves and their children.
