Somali President, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo called upon African leaders to adopt progressive policies towards refugees in the continent, while appreciating states that still host Somali refugees. In his address, at the 32nd Session of the Assembly of Heads of States and Governments of the African Union, President Farmaajo raised the timely need for progressive refugee laws and policies across the continent.
The head of state urged African leaders to take initiatives to accommodate vulnerable refugees, wherever they are and commit to remedy the causes of displacement. “Even as we seek durable solutions to forced displacement in Africa, we should equally advocate for progressive refugee policies and laws across the continent,” he said.
He called for reforms to grant refugees freedom of movement, the right to own land, seek employment, get access to education and health services and all the necessary documents and permits to allow refugees to develop themselves. Somali leader outlined that his country is committed to addressing the needs of vulnerable groups; refugees, returnees and the Internally Displaced People.
“Our National Development Plan specifically addresses the needs of the vulnerable groups in our society including refugees, IDP’s and returnees through a dedicated chapter on resilience,” he said. “Over the last two years, we have worked with diverse partners in articulating our National Action Plan for durable solutions for these groups that is in line with regional, continental and global commitments.” The AU summit theme this year is: “Refugees, Returnees and Internally Displaced Persons in Africa.”
