A two day workshop on mixed migration was held on 12 and 13 September in Hargeisa, Somaliland. The workshop brought together different government ministries, NGOs and international organisations in Somaliland that play a role in addressing mixed migration. The objective of the forum was to update the terms of reference drawn up in 2008 and clarify roles and areas of collaboration.

Speaking during the workshop, UNHCR Head of Sub Office in Hargeisa Sarah Khan, said, “The workshop was an example of collaboration between UNHCR and IOM in the region and the importance donors, development and humanitarian organisations are attaching to the challenges of mixed migration”. She noted that Somaliland serves as a point of origin, transit and destination for migrants making the forum critical in addressing the protection needs of migrants and refugees in mixed flows.”

IOM Head of Sub Office for Hargeisa, Jessamy Garver-Affeldt said, “The workshop was an opportunity for key players that include the Government of Somaliland to revitalise and create a stronger coordination platform for protection of people on the move.”
The Mixed Migration Task Force (MMFT) is a Government of Somaliland led platform of over 15 governmental and non-governmental entities. It is chaired by the Ministry of Justice and co-chaired by UNHCR and IOM.