Lamine’s IOM-supported journey from desert to poultry farming

After a perilous migration journey in North Africa, Lamine found a new career path in Côte d’Ivoire thanks to support from the IOM.

From wandering in the desert to raising poultry in Man, his story illustrates the challenges of irregular migration and the reintegration of returning youth.

Lamine’s journey exemplifies an irregular migration trajectory marked by failure, return, and
rebuilding, with the support of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

According to information from IOM Côte d’Ivoire, Lamine, 28, left school early to support his family before attempting the perilous journey through Libya, Algeria, and Tunisia.

Several attempted crossings, periods of detention, and difficult living conditions ultimately led to his return to Côte d’Ivoire in August 2025. “It’s thanks to the IOM that I’m still alive,” he confides, recounting a journey marked by significant financial losses, estimated at between 3.5 and 4 million CFA francs, invested in his migration attempts.

Upon his return, Lamine received close support and quickly integrated into a local poultry sales and delivery business in Man. Using a motorcycle, he supplies restaurants and food outlets, earning a
variable daily income that allows him to gradually rebuild his economic independence.

The IOM emphasises that this type of journey aligns with its programs assisting voluntary return and reintegration, which aim to offer sustainable alternatives to young returning migrants.

For Lamine, this career change represents a new beginning. He says he wants to become “a large-scale farmer” and raise awareness among young people about the risks of irregular migration, while also advocating for a better reception for returning migrants.

“When a young person returns, they shouldn’t be judged..we must support him,” he insists, according to remarks relayed by IOM Côte d’Ivoire.

AC/Sf/fss/as/APA