DRC, Burundi and UNHCR strengthen cooperation for voluntary repatriation of refugees

The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, and the UNHCR concluded a two-day tripartite meeting in Kinshasa on June 4, 2026, agreeing to strengthen the registration of Congolese and Burundian refugees. They adopted resolutions to improve voluntary repatriation and sustainable reintegration, including post-return monitoring and community development projects. Congolese Deputy Prime Minister Jacquemin Shabani reaffirmed the DRC's commitment to protecting Burundian refugees and facilitating the return of Congolese, calling on the international community to mobilize resources. UNHCR representative Pierre Atchom pledged the agency's support in implementing the resolutions.