Somalia - IOM, in collaboration with UNHCR, the Federal Government of Somalia and the Interim Jubaland Authority, has assisted the first spontaneous return movement of Somali refugees from Kenya. They returned to Somalia through the Dhobley waystation, Afmadow district, in Kenya’s Lower Juba Region on Monday.  The Dhobley waystation is managed by IOM, with support from UNHCR.

Once the returnees crossed the border into Somalia, IOM provided accommodation, food, medical services, water, sanitation and registration at the waystation.  Dhobley was established by IOM as health post for spontaneous returnees and host communities, with funding from the French Government. It was later upgraded to a waystation with UNHCR funding.

Although Somalia is still in conflict, the return of 94  individuals to the country is the result of increased stability in some areas, including newly accessible areas that have been liberated from Al Shabaab. In addition, this year’s rain fall has led to improved farming conditions in some areas.

“I am glad to see men, women and children go back voluntarily and in a dignified manner and to rebuild their country. IOM will continue assisting vulnerable communities willing to return to Somalia by providing them with services such as health care, water and hygiene during the return,” said IOM Somalia Chief of Mission Ali Abdi.

The returns are the result of a tripartite agreement between the Government of Kenya, the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia and UNHCR signed in November 2013, detailing that all returns from Kenya should be voluntary and take place in safety and dignity.

For more information, please contact

Omar Khayre

IOM Somalia

Email: okhayre@iom.int

Tel. +254 708 985812