By Joseph Momoh, D.S Reporter
The International Organization for Migration is pushing for stronger systems to support migrants and returnees in Northern Sierra Leone, as the region becomes a key resettlement hub.
IOM and partners concluded a week-long meeting last week — the 3rd Joint Regional Technical Working Group on Return, Reintegration, Psychosocial Support and Protection. The engagement was held under the EU-funded Migrant Protection, Return and Reintegration Programme in Sierra Leone [MPRRSA].
Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Civil Society Organisations, NGOs, community leaders and development partners joined the forum to improve coordination and service delivery for returnees.
Discussions focused on challenges returnees face, best practices, and practical steps to strengthen government ownership, accountability and collaboration in providing protection, psychosocial support and sustainable reintegration.
“The meeting highlighted the critical role of multi-stakeholder collaboration in ensuring that returned migrants receive the support they need to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities,” a joint statement said.
Organisers said the meeting reinforced a commitment to a holistic, protection-centred approach to migration management.
IOM stressed that stronger coordination is needed to promote safe, orderly and regular migration while building reintegration systems that support sustainable development.
The North Region meeting marks a shift to expand support beyond Freetown, where many returnees now settle.
The MPRRSA programme is funded by the European Union and implemented by IOM in partnership with government and civil society.
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