TZ stresses voluntary return of Burundi refugees

TANZANIA has reaffirmed its position on the future of Burundian refugees living in the country, stating that the time has come to focus on a durable solution centred on voluntary repatriation.

Speaking on behalf of the government yesterday at the Regional Conference on Durable Solutions for Burundian Refugees in Nairobi, Kenya, the Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Ayoub Mohammed Mahmoud said the current security situation in Burundi is stable and conducive for citizens to return home and participate in rebuilding their country.

Mr Mahmoud said the principles of freedom, unity and self-reliance should guide Burundians in choosing to return home rather than continuing to depend on humanitarian assistance while living in exile.

He also expressed concern over the decline in resources and funding from international partners, which has affected the provision of essential services such as healthcare and education in refugee camps.

The deputy minister said the government will continue to uphold its international obligations, including the 1951 Geneva Convention and the 1969 OAU Convention, as well as domestic laws, ensuring that repatriation is conducted voluntarily, safely and with full respect for human dignity.

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He called on the international community, through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), to direct more support to Burundi to facilitate the reintegration of returning refugees and encourage more to go back.

“The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania reaffirms its firm commitment to implementing voluntary repatriation in full compliance with the provisions of the Tripartite Agreement between Tanzania, Burundi and UNHCR, as well as the regional strategy aimed at bringing refugee status for Burundian nationals to an end in an orderly manner,” he said.

Mr Mahmoud added that Tanzania will continue working closely with the Government of Burundi, UNHCR and other stakeholders to ensure the return process remains safe, dignified and respectful of the fundamental rights of all refugees.

During the 26th meeting of the Tripartite Commission on the Voluntary Repatriation of Burundian Refugees held in November 2025, the parties agreed to facilitate the return of up to 3,000 refugees per week