Nine Somali youth repatriated after failed bid to reach Europe via Algeria
Algeria has increasingly become a key transit country for Somali migrants hoping to reach Europe, despite the risks involved in such journeys.
The Federal Government of Somalia has repatriated nine nationals who were detained in Algeria while attempting to reach Europe through irregular migration routes.
The nine, five men and four women, were apprehended while travelling along a route in North Africa widely known for being hazardous and commonly used by migrants.
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Authorities confirmed that the youth had taken the journey through one of the most dangerous corridors in the region, where migrants frequently face arrest, abuse, and life-threatening conditions.
Algeria has increasingly become a key transit country for Somali migrants hoping to reach Europe, despite the risks involved in such journeys.
Upon their return to Mogadishu, the repatriated youth spoke about the challenges they encountered. One of them extended gratitude to the Somali government for its role in ensuring their safe return, saying, “We faced difficult conditions while in prison, but we are happy to be home.”
The operation to bring the young people back was coordinated through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Dr Mohamed Hussein Gaas, the Director General of the Department of Diaspora and Somali Communities, stated that the government is actively pursuing strategies to reduce irregular migration and address the root causes that compel youth to leave the country.
“There are still many Somali youth stranded or suffering in migration routes abroad, and we are working to develop a strategy to bring them back and reintegrate them into society,” said Dr Mohamed.
Dr Mohamed added that the government is committed to providing long-term solutions aimed at reducing the pressure on young people to migrate through unsafe channels.
The issue of irregular migration remains pressing for Somalia.
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of young Somalis leaving cities such as Mogadishu, Hargeisa, Garowe, and Las Anod. Many of them cite unemployment, lack of education opportunities, and ongoing insecurity as primary reasons for attempting the journey to Europe.
Over the past two months, Somali officials have confirmed that several migrants from the country have died while crossing the Mediterranean Sea between Algeria and Spain.
In response, the Somali government is strengthening its efforts to educate the public about the dangers involved. It is also collaborating with regional and international bodies to create legal migration pathways and improve access to economic opportunities at home.
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