Somalia, 23 September 2025 – Over one hundred Somali nationals stranded in Libya have been successfully repatriated.
The repatriation operation was jointly carried out by the Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Union Delegation to Somalia, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
According to the Ministry, 152 of the migrants landed at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, while 32 others were received at Hargeisa Airport.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Isaaq Mahmud Mursal, described the operation as a historic milestone that underscores the government’s responsibility to protect its citizens.
“Historically, this is a day different from others. Rescuing such a large number of people from harsh conditions that threatened their lives and dignity, and bringing them safely back home, demonstrates our fulfillment of the duty entrusted to the Ministry, the government institutions, and our supporting partners,” Mursal said.
The International Organization for Migration also praised the effort, calling it “life-saving.”
IOM noted that the returnees now have a dignified opportunity to rebuild hopeful futures in Somalia.
Some of the returnees shared harrowing stories of their experiences in Libya.
A young woman quoted by state media said: “Conditions in Libya were extremely difficult. I am grateful to be back home safely.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that nearly 4,000 Somali migrants have been repatriated over the past three years as part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Somali citizens trapped in vulnerable situations abroad.
