NEAS Executives With Deportees
By Mohamed Kamara
Freetown, Sierra Leone – The Network of Ex-Asylum Seekers (NEAS) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting deportees and integrating them into Sierra Leonean society. On Friday, August 9, 2024, NEAS Coordinator Mr. Abdulai Daramy highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by deportees since its inception in 2009.
Mr. Daramy emphasized that NEAS has shown resilience and determination in ensuring the safety and integration of deportees despite societal stigmatization. He acknowledged the tragic loss of lives due to frustration among deportees, despite NEAS’s continuous counseling efforts. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to support deportees, many of whom are now self-employed and law-abiding citizens.
“NEAS has been instrumental in supporting deportees during crises such as endemics, epidemics, and pandemics,” Mr. Daramy stated. “We are actively engaged in discussions with government authorities to include deportees in various socio-economic projects.”
The NEAS Coordinator also praised the German-based MEDICO International for its unwavering support, noting that their humanitarian contributions have been crucial to the organization’s efforts. He called for greater involvement from local authorities, philanthropists, religious groups, and international humanitarian organizations.
In his address, Mr. Yusuf Mansaray, NEAS Project Manager, assured deportees of promising future opportunities through upcoming public and private sector projects. He emphasized that the approval of these projects would significantly improve the prospects for deportees.
Madam Maseray, Head of Administration at NEAS, encouraged deportees to maintain hope and faith, highlighting the organization’s ongoing efforts despite the challenges. She also noted the significant number of Sierra Leoneans in foreign prisons awaiting deportation and affirmed NEAS’s commitment to addressing their needs.
Mr. Gberie, the Treasurer, acknowledged the financial constraints faced by NEAS but reassured that the organization remains dedicated to including deportees in its programs. He highlighted the extensive sensitization campaigns conducted nationwide, which have raised awareness about NEAS’s work in Sierra Leone—a service not commonly found in neighboring countries. NEAS continues to advocate for the introduction of a migration act to address deportees’ issues, with consultations across all four regions yielding positive outcomes and calls for urgent action. The organization’s efforts reflect a profound commitment to humanitarianism and the well-being of Sierra Leone’s deported citizens.
