Dar es salaam: Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo, and UNHCR have signed an agreement that outlines the plan for the repatriation of 86,256 refugees currently living in Tanzania. The agreement was formalized in an event attended by Tanzania’s Minister for Home Affairs, George Simbachawene, alongside the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Shabani Bihango, and UNHCR Representative in Tanzania, Barbara Dotse.
According to Nam News Network, both officials from the Democratic Republic of Congo and UNHCR expressed their gratitude to Tanzania for hosting the refugees for more than thirty years. The agreement marks a significant step towards the organized return of refugees to their home country, with all parties highlighting the importance of a peaceful process.
Minister Simbachawene, addressing the Second Tripartite Meeting involving Tanzania’s government, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and UNHCR, emphasized the importance of seeking peaceful means to demand rights. He urged Tanzanian youth and activists to engage in dialogue rather than resorting to conflict, noting that wars and violence have historically been unproductive.
The minister pointed out that the Democratic Republic of Congo serves as a cautionary example, with the nation having sought peace for over three decades. He stressed the necessity of avoiding violent methods, which only result in the loss of peace and stability.