The government's order risks cutting off refugees' income sources amid reduced aid and insufficient food rations.
Burundian refugees living outside designated camps are being ordered to return to their original settlements by the Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (ONPRA). Richard Uwimana, ONPRA coordinator, stated this directive, presented as a security measure, has caused anger and worry among refugees. The decision comes as humanitarian aid has decreased, leaving food rations insufficient for essential needs and potentially cutting off families from their primary income sources.
The government aims to increase oversight and control of the refugee population due to ongoing regional instability. This push follows the recent public presentation of thirteen individuals, many of them Banyamulenge refugees, accused of spying for Rwanda and armed groups in eastern Congo. Relatives of those presented have denied the accusations, stating the individuals fled conflict in South Kivu to protect their lives.
Refugees who rely on economic activities outside the camps to support their families have reacted negatively to the immediate return order. Many refugees are already struggling with diminished humanitarian aid and inadequate food rations. Some travel to Bujumbura for small businesses or daily work, activities that would be jeopardized by a forced return to the camps, threatening their livelihoods.
Why it mattersRefugees are affected by being forced back to camps, potentially losing their income sources and facing insufficient aid.
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