DRC: More than 12,000 Congolese refugees in the Republic of the Congo want voluntary repatriation

More than 12,000 Congolese refugees living in the Republic of the Congo want to return to their home areas, including Yumbi, Bolobo and Kwamouth in Mai-Ndombe, and Kungu in Sud-Ubangi. Following a tripartite meeting involving the DRC, the Republic of the Congo and the UNHCR, the parties plan to conduct “go and see” visits before the end of 2026, with repatriation scheduled to begin in 2027. Deputy Prime Minister Jacquemain Shabani announced security force redeployments, new local officials and peace initiatives to support a safe, lasting return. The Republic of the Congo hosts 36,000 refugees from the two provinces, but only 12,000 wish to return.