NEWS CENTER – Preparations have begun for the second convoy returning to Afrin, with around 200 families from surrounding villages and the town of Rajo expected to return in the coming days.

 

The return of families who were forced to leave the region during the 2018 attacks by Turkey and affiliated groups is continuing. Within the framework of the agreement, more than 400 families from the Afrin towns of Shiye, Jindires, and Mabata departed yesterday from Qamishli and its countryside.

 

Organized by the Afrin–Shehba Migrants Council, the convoy—consisting of 50 buses, 75 minibuses and private vehicles—gathered in Hasakah under tight security measures and reached Afrin in the morning hours. Residents welcomed those returning with songs, drums and ululations.

 

According to the Afrin and Shehba Council, preparations for the second convoy are ongoing. Around 200 families are expected to return to villages around Afrin and to the town of Rajo.

 

STAYING IN SCHOOLS

 

Speaking to ANF News, Sewsen Ehmed, spokesperson for the Afrin and Shehba Women’s Council, said: “As the people’s council, we prepared for the return to Afrin. In the first stage we created a plan for our people, organized them and met the necessary needs for their return. Yesterday, on March 9, the first convoy of 400 families returned. In this regard we are focusing particularly on the displaced people in Qamishli, because the largest number of migrants are there and they are spread across more than 120 schools.”

 

Sewsen Ehmed stated that preparations for the second convoy are ongoing: “We are conducting a census of our people and meeting the remaining needs so that they can also return to Afrin.”

 

Emphasizing that displaced Afrin residents have endured great hardships for years, Sewsen Ehmed said the return has created great hope for the people.

 

NEWROZ WILL BE CELEBRATED IN AFRIN

 

Sewsen Ehmed also stated that this year Newroz will be celebrated in Afrin. “March 8 is the day of women’s struggle for us. This year we have added another day to history: March 9, the day of return to Afrin. From now on, this will be a special day every year,” she said.