Thousands of Burundians return home
UN-backed convoy repatriates refugees from Tanzania
More than 4,200 Burundian refugees who had been living in camps in western Tanzania returned to Burundi in a coordinated voluntary repatriation organized by the UN refugee agency and regional authorities. The refugees, many of whom fled political unrest and economic hardship years earlier, travelled in organized convoys and crossed at designated transit points before being taken to reception centers inside Burundi.
On arrival they were registered and received immediate assistance from UNHCR, government authorities and partner organizations: hot meals, clean water, sanitation, temporary shelter, health screenings and psychosocial support. Families were given reintegration packages that included a cash grant, three months of food assistance from the World Food Programme and transport support to reach their home provinces. Aid workers emphasized that the program aims to ensure return decisions are well informed and that support continues throughout the journey.
The returnees expressed relief at reuniting with relatives and returning to familiar communities, though UNHCR officials warned that substantial additional support is required for full reintegration. Bernard Ntwari, UNHCR’s communications officer, highlighted ongoing needs including financial resources, transportation and reintegration assistance to help returnees rebuild livelihoods.
The operation is part of a broader agreement between Tanzania and Burundi, backed by humanitarian agencies, to facilitate voluntary and safe returns after tens of thousands fled Burundi amid unrest since 2015. Humanitarian groups said assessments were carried out to confirm voluntariness and monitor conditions in areas of origin, but rights organizations continue to voice concerns about economic hardship, limited public services and the long-term sustainability of reintegration without durable development support.
Tanzanian authorities have cited strain on local resources as a factor in reducing camp populations, while Burundi’s government has pledged assistance for returnees, including housing and agricultural support. Humanitarian agencies said they will keep monitoring conditions and providing reintegration aid as further returns are planned.
