Mali: Food, medicine and shelter for young migrants deported from Guinea

Far from their countries of origin, thousands of young migrants deported from Guinea are still waiting to return home. Settled in Ouézzindougou, in the Mandé region, they currently depend on aid for food, healthcare, and basic necessities. In response to their needs, a solidarity effort is being organized with renewed support from Malian authorities and their partners.

During a visit to the accommodation site, the Minister of Health and Social Development, Colonel-Major Assa Badiallo Touré, delivered aid consisting of several tons of rice, cartons of oil, medicines, blankets, and mats. Cattle donated by the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries will also supplement the meals served to those being accommodated.

Since their arrival, the Ouézzindougou town hall, social services, humanitarian partners, and local youth have been contributing to their care. Mayor Ousmane Kouyaté welcomed this mobilization, which is gradually addressing the migrants' needs for food, healthcare, and protection.

But assistance is only an immediate response. To enable these foreign nationals to return to their countries, steps are being taken with the relevant diplomatic missions. The Malian authorities are thus working to organize their voluntary and coordinated return, with respect for their dignity.

Yolande Bazié