Commitments reaffirmed for safe, dignified and voluntary returns of Congolese and Rwandan refugees

At the invitation of the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, dialogue continued last week between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda in Nairobi from 23 to 24 November 2023.

The parties reviewed progress on the implementation of key recommendations agreed upon during a Tripartite Technical Meeting held earlier this year also in Nairobi, including new and emerging opportunities and challenges as well as the key milestones required before the commencement of voluntary repatriation.  They also underscored the need for more resources from both humanitarian and development actors to support sustainable reintegration.

Both government delegations highlighted their commitment to provide continued protection refugees who will opt to stay, and to assist the voluntary repatriation of refugees residing in their respective countries.

The DRC delegation outlined efforts being made by the government to try to restore peace and security in areas affected by conflict that would enable Congolese refugees seeking to return to the country to rebuild their lives and participate in its reconstruction.

The Rwandan delegation highlighted opportunities for the integration of returnees into national social protection schemes, under the framework of the recently approved National Graduation Strategy, which will contribute to more sustainable returns.

UNHCR expressed appreciation the governments of the DRC and the Republic of Rwanda for their generosity in hosting refugees over the years and remains committed to support safe, dignified, and voluntary returns.

ENDS

For more information, please contact:

In Kigali, Lilly Carlisle, [email protected], +250 788 350295

In Kinshasa, Joel Smith, [email protected], +243 82 52 57 774

In Pretoria, Pumla Rulashe, [email protected], + 27 82 377 5665

In Pretoria, Helene Caux, [email protected], + 27 82 376 5190

In Nairobi, Faith Kasina, [email protected], +254 113 427 094