Somalia to Receive First Batch of Deportees From U.S. Within Weeks

By Zamzam Osman - Reporter

Somalia, 16 January 2026 The first batch of Somali deportees from the United States, estimated at between 500 and 800 people, is expected to arrive in Mogadishu within the next few weeks, with the first flight likely to land during January or February 2026, sources in Somalia and the United States told Dawan Africa.

The sources, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue, said preparations are underway for coordinated arrivals, though they did not provide an official flight schedules, or confirm the operation.

The reported deportations come amid heightened scrutiny of U.S. immigration policy toward Somali nationals following Washington’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia, a move that is set to take effect on March 17, 2026.

What is known so far

More from Somalia

Opinion - Free Education Has Given Mandera Hope – Water Security Must Sustain It

Historic First Caesarean Section Performed at Kotulo Sub-County Hospital.

According to Dawan Africa’s sources, the incoming group is expected to include a mix of individuals removed under U.S. immigration enforcement processes, potentially including people with final removal orders, those who lost asylum or appeals cases, and others subject to deportation decisions. The exact breakdown — including whether any individuals are being returned after serving criminal sentences — could not be independently verified.

Somali authorities have not yet publicly confirmed the reported deportation or passenger numbers or the timing of the arrival of the first batch.

Dawan Africa is also seeking comment from relevant U.S. agencies, and will update this story as more information becomes available.

Discover more Somalia updates

Three Horn of Africa Nations Head to Polls in 2026