The Government of Sierra Leone has received 86 citizens forcibly deported from Mauritania. The group, including 56 women, nine pregnant women, nine men, and 21 children, arrived in the country via Senegal.
According to authorities, the returnees had been detained in prisons across Mauritania before their deportation. The Ministry of Social Welfare, with support from other government agencies, led the official reception at the U Building in Freetown.
Health Screening Conducted
In line with Sierra Leone’s ongoing public health protocols, all deportees underwent immediate medical screening upon arrival. Dr. Yambu Kargbo from the Ministry of Health confirmed that several returnees were diagnosed with severe health conditions, including sexually transmitted infections. Affected individuals were promptly referred to Ola During Children’s Hospital for further medical treatment and observation.
Humanitarian Assistance Provided
To support their reintegration, each returnee received the following humanitarian aid:
A 50kg bag of rice
Gender-specific hygiene kits
Transportation allowance (Le100,000 for those residing in Freetown, with variable amounts for individuals returning to the provinces)
Government Outlines Reintegration Plan
The Ministry of Social Welfare has unveiled a comprehensive reintegration plan to assist the returnees in rebuilding their lives. The support package includes:
Education – Collaboration with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education to facilitate school enrollment for eligible children
Vocational Training – Access to skills development programs through the Ministry of Youth Affairs for adults seeking economic empowerment
Officials Warn Against Irregular Migration
During the reception, the Minister of Social Welfare strongly warned against irregular migration. The Minister emphasised the dangers associated with unauthorised travel and detention, citing testimonies from the returnees about inhumane treatment and deplorable conditions in Mauritanian detention centres.
