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Key Points

The International Organization for Migration has inaugurated a new Migration Response Centre in Burao, Somaliland, marking a significant expansion of migrant support services. This strategic centre will provide critical assistance including emergency shelter, medical aid, and voluntary return support for vulnerable migrants. The facility is part of IOM's broader mission to protect and assist migrants along complex regional migration routes. By establishing this centre, IOM demonstrates its commitment to comprehensive humanitarian support in challenging migration corridors.

Key Points: IOM Launches Migrant Response Centre in Somaliland Somalia

  • UN agency expands migrant support network in strategic Somaliland region
  • New centre provides emergency shelter and medical assistance
  • Focuses on voluntary return and protection services
  • Supports vulnerable migrants in transit
2 min read

UN agency opens migration response centre in Somalia

UN migration agency opens critical support hub in Burao, expanding protection services for vulnerable migrants in strategic regional corridor

"By strengthening protection mechanisms, we aim to ensure that no migrant is left behind - Prestage Murima, IOM Somalia Deputy Chief"

Mogadishu, April 22

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), the UN migration agency, has officially inaugurated the Migration Response Center (MRC) in Burao in Somaliland, a self-declared region of Somalia.

The IOM said the inauguration marks a significant milestone in expanding the provision of essential protection services and support to migrants on the move in the region, Xinhua news agency reported.

Prestage Murima, IOM Somalia deputy chief of mission, said the establishment of the Burao MRC is a testament to the ongoing commitment of the IOM and its partners to addressing the needs of vulnerable migrants.

"By strengthening protection mechanisms and providing lifesaving services, we aim to ensure that no migrant is left behind," Murima said in a statement issued in Burao.

The newly established MRC, which joins a growing network of centers in strategic migration corridors, will serve as a critical hub for protection services and voluntary return support for migrants in transit, as well as those stranded along migration routes.

According to the IOM, services provided at the center will include emergency shelter, medical assistance to vulnerable migrants, assisted voluntary return, mental health and psychosocial support, awareness raising, information sharing, and distribution of non-food items.

IOM Somalia's Migrant Protection and Assistance Program, which oversees the MRC network across Somaliland and the broader region, continues to work with government partners and donors to expand access to protection and assistance services for migrants.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Amina K.
This is such an important initiative! So many vulnerable migrants need these services. Hope this center can make a real difference in people's lives 🙏
M
Mohamed A.
While I appreciate the effort, I wonder how effective this will be given the political situation in Somaliland. The article doesn't mention how they'll ensure long-term sustainability.
H
Halima S.
The mental health support is crucial! Many migrants suffer trauma but it's often overlooked. Glad to see comprehensive services being offered.
I
Ismail D.
My cousin was helped by IOM when he was stranded in Ethiopia. These centers literally save lives. More countries need this kind of support system.
F
Fatuma M.
Important step forward! But I hope they'll also focus on job creation so people don't have to migrate in dangerous conditions in the first place.
Y
Yusuf H.
The voluntary return program is key. Many migrants realize too late that the journey isn't worth the risk. Having safe options to go home is vital.

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