First migrant return flight leaves Khartoum since war began, UN says

 September 3, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – The International Organization for Migration has operated the first voluntary repatriation flight for stranded migrants from Sudan’s capital since war broke out in April 2023, the U.N. agency said.

The charter flight under the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration programme marks a significant step in the gradual recovery of humanitarian operations from Khartoum, opening safe pathways for migrants facing severe protection risks and economic hardship.

Those on board included men, women and families who had lost their livelihoods, struggled to access identity documents, and faced obstacles to standard travel after conflict disrupted services across the capital.

The operation was carried out in coordination with Sudanese authorities, diplomatic missions and aid partners to restore operational capacity for migrants wishing to return to their home countries.

“Today’s flight demonstrates the importance of sustained collaboration among humanitarian, diplomatic and government partners in ensuring safe and dignified return options for migrants who wish to go home,” the IOM Sudan chief of mission said in a statement.

The mission added that the flight would enable the agency to expand aid to migrants in areas previously affected by service disruptions.

The operation is part of broader initiatives to support stranded migrants across Sudan, including citizens from Niger, Nigeria, Ethiopia and other nations.

Funding for the charter operation was provided by the European Union under its sustainable solutions initiative for the Sahel, which covers registration, counselling, travel logistics and reintegration aid.

Consular officials from the Embassy of Niger in Cairo provided emergency travel documents for the flight, while the Sudanese Passport and Immigration Authority facilitated exit procedures, the IOM said.

Returnees are set to receive reception support and reintegration packages upon arrival in their home countries to help them rebuild their livelihoods.