As the authorities began a process to return more than 102,000 Ethiopians from Saudi Arabi, we want to reinforce this will and contibute actively to the dignified rehabilitation of these citizens, the IOM representative here, Malambo Moonga, said.

The orderly return of migrants in extreme conditions and trying to meet their needs represent a challenge for the government, the IOM and the international organizations, but with the agreed planning the program can be best accomplished, he added.

The participation of partners and African organizations or worldwide is very importamt, he insisted, both to make a proper projection and to ensure the accurate development of operations in a country now affected by several problems.

So far, IOM is working with the government and, when people arrive, including mothers with small children, they are registered with us and received food, temporary shelter, medical aid services and counceling, but it is not enough, he stressed.

Among those we received, he explained, many need specialized assistance due to the situations they experienced and their vulnerabilities, like pregnant women, infants, the elderly, chronically ill patients and even individuals with mental health disorders.

At least 11 million dollars are needed just for the post-arrival assistance, Moonga said in a public appearence.

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