Refugees in Malawi Returning Home: A Voluntary Repatriation Program
LILONGWE, Malawi – The government of Malawi, in partnership with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), has initiated a voluntary repatriation program for refugees and asylum seekers from war-torn African nations living in the Dzaleka Refugee Camp. Around 53,000 individuals from countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia have been residing in Malawi since the 1990s.
The program aims to provide a safe space for refugees willing to return to their native countries, without any coercion. Senior administrative manager, Hilda Kausiwa, highlighted the collaborative efforts to support the safe return of individuals. The UNHCR is providing funding and essential support for the repatriation process.
Refugees at the Dzaleka Refugee Camp have welcomed the repatriation program, expressing their willingness to return home. Asylum seeker Ameen Saudi from Somalia praised the initiative. Prior to this program, refugees were forcibly relocated to the camp in 2023, which sparked criticism from human rights organizations.
The evolving dynamics of refugee management and support in Malawi are showcased through this voluntary repatriation program, emphasizing the importance of individual choice and support for refugees.