Aden — The United Nations has successfully assisted 148 Somali refugees in Yemen to return voluntarily to their homeland, marking a significant step in ongoing efforts to support displaced communities affected by regional conflict and instability.

The group, which included men, women, and children, arrived at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport aboard a direct chartered flight from Aden. The operation was coordinated by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in partnership with Somalia’s National Commission for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (NCRI) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Upon arrival, the returnees were received by Somali authorities and humanitarian partners who provided temporary shelter, food assistance, and reintegration support. The repatriation is part of a broader initiative by the Somali government to facilitate the return of up to 1,000 refugees from Yemen by the end of 2025.

“This voluntary return reflects our commitment to restoring dignity and stability for Somali citizens who have endured years of displacement,” said a spokesperson from the NCRI. UNHCR officials emphasized that all returns were conducted in accordance with international protection standards and based on the informed consent of the individuals involved.

Yemen has long hosted Somali refugees fleeing conflict and drought, but deteriorating conditions and limited access to services have prompted many to seek repatriation. The UN continues to monitor the situation and provide support to those wishing to return, while also advocating for safe and dignified conditions in host countries.

This latest repatriation marks the second group of Somali refugees to return from Yemen in October, following an earlier flight on October 9. Humanitarian agencies have pledged to continue working with both governments to ensure the safe reintegration of returnees into their communities.