Stranded Liberian Migrants Arrived In Country

By R Joyclyn Wea

The Liberia Refugee and Repatriation and Reintegration Commission (LRRRC) through its Executive Director Festus Logan has disclosed the arrival of 130 stranded Liberian migrants from Niger but stressed the need for government to build on the skill of returnees.

Making the disclosure over the weekend at the commission’s office on 9^th street, Commissioner Logan explained that of the 130 stranded Liberian migrants, 82 are males and 35 females with 13 children.

According to him, additional seventeen (17) individuals are also expected to arrive in Liberia from the Republic of Niger through the Ivory Coast.

Logan asserted that if the government does not build on the skills of migrants, there is a possibility of them going back into exile or becoming zogos saying “those of them that already have skills should be deployed into other areas of work.

In the institution focus to ensuring the rights, protection and welfare of all migrants, Logan said the government of Liberia is working towards a comprehensive policy framework as well as strategic action plan to fine a lasting solution for Liberia migrants in the sub-region.

The LRRRC boss is therefore calling on government and international partners, especially international organization for migration (IOM) and other relevant organizations to kindly assist the commission in returning those migrants to Liberian citizens.

Accordingly, Commissioner Logan applauded government of Niger for warmth and hospitality in facilitating the return of Liberian migrants and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for the close partnership and collaboration with the LRRRC, RIA, MoFA and LIS in facilitating the soft landing of Liberians back home.

Meanwhile, the LRRRC Executive Director indicated that they are constructing what he calls Recovery Solution Center In Fendell where those stranded Liberian migrants would be trained.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.