DRC and UNHCR join forces with Central African Republic to repatriate 20,000 refugees

Kinshasa is hosting a crucial tripartite meeting from June 9 to 12, uniting the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Central African Republic (CAR), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The primary focus? Facilitating the voluntary repatriation of over 20,000 Central African refugees currently residing in the DRC.

Pierre Atchom, the UNHCR Representative in the DRC, disclosed that 22,604 registered Central African refugees remain in the country, predominantly in the provinces of Nord-Ubangi, Sud-Ubangi, and Bas-Uélé. Additionally, 65,000 new Central African asylum seekers arrived in May 2025 in Zapaï, located in the territory of Ango (Bas-Uélé).

Éric Mukandila, Permanent Secretary of the National Commission for Refugees (CNR) and leader of the DRC delegation, emphasized the resumption of voluntary repatriation efforts. This followed the stabilization of previously conflict-ridden areas and the signing of a 2019 agreement between the DRC, CAR, and UNHCR. Mukandila highlighted that “this agreement was further reinforced by the 2022 Yaoundé Declaration, which advocates for a regional approach to addressing forced displacement linked to the Central African crisis.”

Since 2019, over 40,000 Central Africans have returned to their homeland under secure and dignified conditions, with UNHCR collaborating closely with both governments. However, Mukandila acknowledged the urgent need for a comprehensive review to address the frustrations of returnees and identify pathways to ensure safe and dignified returns.

Mesmin Guenguebe Mbari, CAR’s Territorial Planning Advisor and delegation head, revealed ambitious plans for 2026: the potential return of nearly 60,000 refugees from various host countries. He underscored CAR’s innovative strategy of establishing development hubs in return zones to support reintegration. Guenguebe Mbari called for pragmatic, transparent discussions to assess the real-life situations of those who have already returned, their integration within communities, and the tangible impact of the assistance provided.

The tripartite talks in Kinshasa mark a significant step toward resolving one of Africa’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. With security improving in key regions and renewed international cooperation, hope is on the horizon for thousands of displaced families eager to rebuild their lives.