By Reporting: Horn Africa News
Djibouti/Addis Ababa – In a coordinated humanitarian effort, the Ethiopian Embassy in Djibouti has successfully repatriated 230 Ethiopian nationals stranded in Djibouti, with the support of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The returnees—mostly young men and women—had embarked on irregular and perilous migration routes in hopes of reaching the Arabian Peninsula, particularly Yemen and Saudi Arabia, in search of better livelihoods. Many were intercepted or stranded while attempting the dangerous journey.
The repatriation was part of a Voluntary Humanitarian Return program jointly organized by the Ethiopian Embassy and IOM Djibouti, ensuring the migrants’ safe and dignified return home.
In a statement, the Ethiopian Embassy highlighted that the operation aligns with the government’s broader strategy to combat irregular migration and protect its citizens from human trafficking and exploitation.
“We remain dedicated to saving lives and supporting returnees with reintegration assistance,” said an IOM official, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to addressing the challenges of migration in the Horn of Africa.
This latest initiative adds to a series of return operations across the region, as governments and international partners work to address the root causes of irregular migration—including poverty, insecurity, and lack of employment opportunities.
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has vowed to intensify public awareness campaigns, enhance bilateral cooperation, and create safer migration pathways for its citizens
