The past few weeks have been intense and transformative as we worked to assist African migrants in critical conditions here in Hanoi. Many of them had been lured into coming to Vietnam by visa agents, only to find themselves stranded, undocumented, and homeless. While the situation was dire, our collective efforts made a tangible difference, proving once again that community, faith, and action can create real change.
A Gathering of Concern & Action
It all started with a community meeting, where we discussed urgent issues regarding the African community in Hanoi. The turnout was encouraging, and through that gathering, we managed to raise 12,056,000 VND—only about 4% of what was needed to cover their accommodation, food, overstay clearance, and repatriation for 11 individuals. Though the amount was small, it was a start, and it gave us the push we needed to move forward.
Finding Shelter: The Challenge of Housing Without a Visa
One of the biggest obstacles was finding a place for the migrants to stay. In Vietnam, every foreigner must be registered with the local police, which requires a valid visa. I reached out to several landlords, but none were willing to accommodate foreigners without the proper documents.Just when the situation seemed impossible, I found a hostel owner who was willing to help. We agreed on the rent conditions and started working with the local authorities to ensure proper procedures were followed.
From the Streets to a Home
With a place secured, a few volunteers joined me, and we moved the migrants from the streets into their new temporary home. It was an emotional moment—people who had been sleeping in uncertainty finally had a roof over their heads. Since then, we have been able to provide food and care, ensuring that they are living in good conditions as we work on the next steps of their journey.
Progress: Repatriation and Immigration Clearance
Since this initiative began, we have successfully helped seven Africans return home. Just recently, two more individuals, who had been homeless and stranded, were repatriated to their home countries to reconnect with their families. Now, our focus is on assisting the remaining individuals with clearing their immigration status and arranging their flights back.
We also had an important meeting with the National Police Department, where they advised us on the necessary documentation to facilitate the process. We submitted a detailed letter with all required information, and now we are waiting for their response, hopefully after this short holiday break.
Taking Action Against Visa Scammers
This support system is damage control for a much larger issue. Our initiative is guided by faith, inspired by God’s call to help our brothers and sisters. However, we know that to truly address this crisis, we must stop it before it escalates further.
The police have now begun collecting information on the fraudulent visa agents responsible for bringing these migrants to Vietnam under false pretenses. If you or someone you know has been scammed by a visa agent, you can report them anonymously using this form:
👉 Submit Details Here
A Call to Keep Praying and Helping
To everyone who has contributed—whether through prayers, donations, or physical support—thank you. Your help has made a difference in the lives of these individuals. But the work is far from over. I encourage you to continue praying and being a helping hand to any African going through this crisis. Together, we can restore dignity, hope, and safety to those who need it most.
With gratitude,
Tomi
African Fellowship Coordinator