IOM, Ghana repatriate 144 Ghanaian migrants from Libya

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), working in partnership with the Government of Ghana, has assisted 144 Ghanaian migrants to return safely from Libya under its Voluntary Humanitarian Return (VHR) Programme.

The returnees arrived at Kotoka International Airport on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, aboard two flights that landed approximately 20 minutes apart.

They were welcomed by representatives from several government agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Immigration Service, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Department of Social Welfare, the Ghana Health Service and other institutions responsible for migrant protection and reintegration.

The evacuation is part of the ongoing collaboration between the Government of Ghana and the IOM to support the safe, dignified and orderly return of Ghanaian nationals stranded overseas, particularly in conflict zones and high-risk transit countries such as Libya.

Following their arrival, the migrants underwent immigration procedures and medical screening before receiving immediate assistance, including meals, psychosocial support and transportation to their respective destinations.

The returnees will also benefit from reintegration programmes aimed at helping them rebuild their lives. The support package includes livelihood assistance, vocational training and other socio-economic empowerment initiatives tailored to their individual needs.

The Government of Ghana reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and rights of Ghanaians living abroad and expressed gratitude to the IOM and its partners for their continued assistance in facilitating humanitarian returns and reintegration.

Authorities further encouraged Ghanaians considering migration to use legal and safe migration channels, cautioning against the risks associated with irregular migration and human trafficking networks.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it would continue collaborating with the IOM, Ghana’s diplomatic missions and other relevant institutions to assist distressed Ghanaian nationals abroad while promoting safe, orderly and regular migration.