An asylum seeker who was recognised for his voluntary work in the pandemic is facing deportation for a second time this year. Richard Nomba, 50, fled the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2018 after escaping jail where he was being held due to his opposition to the government.
Mr Nomba is now at "risk of imminent deportation" according to Stand up to Racism volunteer Alice Greenlees who is fighting to keep him in the UK just months after he was given a reprieve. The Democratic Republic of Congo is unsafe in many areas and politically turbulent. The UK Government advises against all travel to certain regions of the country and opponents and critics of the are particularly at risk. Ms Greenlees said: "Opposition of the government in the Democratic Republic of Congo is not welcome, he is likely to face heavy punishment and he would not be free to speak up for justice and democracy."
Mr Nomba arrived in the UK in 2018 and was originally sent to Cardiff for three weeks until accommodation was found for him in Swansea. As soon as he moved to Swansea, Mr Nomba started volunteering at Swansea's Oxfam shop and later at the Congolese Development Project as well as Swansea City of Sanctuary. Speaking about his voluntary work in the city, he said: "If they needed help I was there". He has made the city his home, saying: "I love Swansea, it's very lovely and friendly".
