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The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Sierra Leone has concluded a project aimed at combating irregular migration through youth empowerment and community engagement, with a final event and the formal handover of livelihood support items to beneficiary communities.
The activities, held from August 27–28, 2026, took place at the Obasango Training Institute in Newton and the Kambia District Council in Kambia Town.
The project, titled “Combating Irregular Migration through Youth Empowerment and Community Engagement in Sierra Leone,” was implemented by IOM in partnership with the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), with funding from the IOM Development Fund.
Since its inception in December 2023, the initiative has focused on addressing some of the underlying factors driving irregular migration in Sierra Leone, particularly limited access to secure and sustainable employment opportunities among young people.
Through evidence-based and gender-sensitive livelihood interventions, the project sought to equip vulnerable young people and communities with opportunities to strengthen their economic resilience and reduce dependence on irregular migration as a means of livelihood.
The final event also marked the formal handover of livelihood items and community assets to beneficiary groups and local structures. The transfer is expected to strengthen community ownership and contribute to the sustainability of the economic opportunities created under the project.
IOM said the initiative represents a long-term, community-based approach to addressing irregular migration by creating alternative livelihood opportunities and strengthening the capacity of young people to participate meaningfully in local economic activities.
The organization expressed appreciation to NaCSA, government ministries, local authorities, community leaders, and other stakeholders for their collaboration and support throughout the implementation of the project.
IOM reaffirmed the importance of continued partnerships and community engagement in addressing the root causes of irregular migration while promoting safe, regular, and dignified migration pathways for young people in Sierra Leone.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/1HzPeRaiMo/
