By: Nyima Sillah
Migration and human rights activist in Germany, Yahya Sonko, has disclosed that the second deportation flight from Germany for 2024 will arrive in The Gambia today with 35 deportees.
He explained that the first deportation flight in 2024 landed in The Gambia on 28th February and the second chartered flight arrives today.
The firebrand activist contended that this year, the Barrow Government would receive more deportees than the previous year.
“As the Gambia navigates through these turbulent times, it is imperative for all stakeholders to collaborate effectively and uphold their commitments to safeguard the welfare and dignity of all individuals, including deportees. Only through concerted efforts and inclusive policies can The Gambia surmount the challenges at hand and build a future that promises hope and prosperity for all its citizens,” activist Sonkotold The Voice.
He called for accountability and transparency from both domestic and international stakeholders involved in the reintegration process of the deportees, saying that civil society organizations and human rights advocates have voiced their concerns to the authorities about prioritizing the needs of deportees and implementing comprehensive support mechanisms to facilitate their successful reintegration into society.
He pointed out that in 2023, Gambians residing in theEU, particularly in Germany faced a tumultuous period as the government of The Gambia struck an agreement with the bloc to repatriate over 600 Gambians.
“The agreement ostensibly, aimed at facilitating the reintegration of deportees, has since proven to be fraught with challenges, leaving many individuals in dire straits upon their return to The Gambia,” Sonkoasserted.
The Germany-based migration and human rightsactivist said despite assurances from both the EU and Gambian authorities, the reality on the ground paints a grim picture of failed reintegration efforts and a sharp rise in unemployment rates, arguing that reports from the deportee groups indicated that not a single deportee has received adequate support to effectively reintegrate into Gambian society, exacerbating the already precarious situation.
He, however, stated that this failure is acutely felt among the youthful population, with many facing limited prospects for employment and succumbing to the allure of illicit activities, notably the trade in hard drugs.
“The resultant surge in drug-related activities not only perpetuates social instability but also poses significant public health concerns for the nation,” he said.