Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has announced the repatriation of dozens of Senegalese nationals who were stranded in Lebanon. This move follows similar actions by other African nations, prompted by the worsening security situation in Lebanon. According to Sonko, 310 Senegalese citizens were scheduled to depart from Beirut on Saturday, October 19. He made the announcement during a fundraising event organized by his party, Pastef, ahead of the November legislative elections.

On social media platform X, President Faye expressed his heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I welcomed our compatriots today with deep emotion as they returned from Lebanon.” He further expressed relief that they had returned safely.

The Ministry of Integration and Foreign Affairs had previously assured the public that all necessary measures had been taken to facilitate the evacuation. The plane carrying the Senegalese nationals is currently en route to Dakar. The ministry’s X account confirmed that 117 Senegalese citizens have already been repatriated.

Prime Minister Sonko emphasized his government’s dedication to ensuring no Senegalese is left in distress abroad. He also referenced the recent successful repatriation of Senegalese citizens from Libya, overseen by Secretary of State for Senegalese Abroad, Amadou Cherif Diouf. Sonko reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing the safety and security of Senegalese citizens, wherever they may be.

Additionally, the Pastef leader mentioned President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s recent efforts in eastern Senegal, where he personally provided support to victims of a local crisis