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The first group of 147 Sierra Leoneans stranded in Niger has returned home, marking the beginning of a large-scale repatriation effort led by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Sierra Leonean government, and the European Union (EU).
These individuals are part of over 1,000 Sierra Leoneans who left their homeland in search of better opportunities abroad—some as far back as seven years ago—but have found themselves stranded in Niger.
The returning group comprises 111 men, 15 women, and 19 children, with an additional 600 citizens expected to arrive in Freetown in the coming week.
Upon arrival, the returnees will receive crucial support from IOM and the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) to facilitate their reintegration into society.
This includes counseling, skills training, and assistance in rebuilding their lives within their communities.
The initiative underscores a broader commitment to addressing the challenges faced by irregular migrants and providing sustainable solutions to curb unsafe migration.
It also highlights the collaborative efforts of international and national bodies to protect and support vulnerable citizens abroad.
This repatriation is a significant step in ensuring the dignity and safety of Sierra Leoneans while fostering their reintegration into their homeland.
