UNHCR Chief Filippo Grandi visited Nkamira Transit Camp on Friday, August 29, where more than 3,100 Congolese refugees are temporarily sheltered, pledging continued support for Rwanda’s refugee programs.
Grandi, on a working visit to Rwanda, met with President Paul Kagame to discuss solutions for refugees fleeing insecurity in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The two leaders reviewed Rwanda’s inclusive refugee policies, explored strategies to improve the lives of displaced populations, and revisited the Washington Peace Agreement, aimed at stabilizing the Great Lakes region.
The refugees at Nkamira arrived at different times to escape prolonged insecurity in eastern DRC. Rwanda currently hosts over 130,000 Congolese refugees. This week alone, around 500 new arrivals were welcomed, while UNHCR reported that over 2,500 refugees in DRC expressed willingness to relocate to Rwanda.
“Addressing refugee issues from the DRC is part of the opportunities created by the Washington Peace Agreement signed on June 27 between Rwanda and DRC,” Grandi said. “UNHCR is ready to facilitate safe returns and provide support for those relocating.”
During his visit, Grandi also held talks with Rwanda’s Minister of Emergency Management, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, and the Director General of the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration, ACP Lynder Nkuranga, among other officials.
Earlier, on August 25, Grandi tweeted that he was en route to Rwanda and DRC to help find solutions for refugees and expressed hope that continued political engagement would halt violence against civilians and reduce displacement.
The visit highlights UNHCR’s ongoing role in supporting Rwanda and neighboring countries in managing one of the longest-running displacement crises in the Great Lakes region. Officials said the meetings are part of broader efforts to ensure refugees have protection, services, and pathways to rebuild their lives.
