Mogadishu (KAAB TV) – The Federal Government of Somalia has repatriated nine young Somali nationals who were detained in Algeria while attempting to migrate to Europe. The group, comprising five young men and four young women, returned home today after facing significant hardships in Algerian detention centers.
Algeria has emerged as a key transit point for Somali migrants seeking to reach Western Europe. Many of these individuals undertake perilous journeys in search of better opportunities, often falling victim to arrest, exploitation, or worse.
The returnees shared accounts of the difficult conditions they endured while in custody and expressed their gratitude to the Somali government for facilitating their release and safe return.
Dr. Mohamed Hussein Gas, Director General of Diaspora and Communities at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to address the root causes of irregular migration. He stressed the need for comprehensive strategies to assist young Somalis abroad and to create sustainable alternatives at home.
“There are still many young people suffering in the countries they migrated to, and they need our support and a clear plan to bring them back,” Dr. Gas said.
In recent months, migration attempts from Somalia have surged, with cities like Mogadishu, Garowe, Las Anod, and Hargeisa becoming major departure points. Tragically, a significant number of young Somalis have died attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea between Algeria and Spain in pursuit of a better life.
The government’s latest repatriation effort highlights both the scale of the migration crisis and the urgent need for coordinated solutions to protect the country’s youth.