UNHCR commends Botswana for granting citizenship to long-term refugees on World Refugee Day in Botswana

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, commends the Government of the Republic of Botswana for granting citizenship to 64 refugees on the commemoration of this year’s World Refugee Day and the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention in Dukwi Refugee Settlement.

Botswana’s Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General (Rtd) Hon. Pius Mokgware handed over the citizenship certificates to individuals who have been residing in Botswana for decades without nationality documents. Hon. Ramaotwana Nelson Ramaotwana, Minister of Justice, and Hon. Lawrence Ookeditse, Assistant Minister of Health, were also in attendance.

Speaking at the occasion, Minister Mokgware said, “This is a practical demonstration of the government's efforts to ensure that everyone is afforded the fullest protection available under the law.” He added that “Safety is not only about physical protection, but also about ensuring access to procedures and opportunities to have one’s voice heard. A decision that will unlock opportunities for them and directly contribute to the (World Refugee Day) theme until everyone is safe.”

“This historic decision is a welcome step in ending the cycle of displacement for people who have lived in limbo for years and demonstrates Botswana’s exceptional leadership in ensuring solutions for people forced to flee,” said,Kavita Belani, Representative, UNHCR South Africa Multi-Country Office. “By enabling refugees to become citizens, Botswana is not only providing legal status but restoring dignity, fostering belonging, and opening pathways for individuals and families to fully participate in economic, social, cultural, and civic life.” said Belani.

Botswana’s initiative aligns with the UNHCR High Commissioner, Barham Salih’s vision to halve the number of refugees in protracted displacement dependent on aid over the next decade by linking humanitarian action with development and peace efforts, expanding opportunities for self-reliance, and strengthening inclusion in national systems.

For years, UNHCR has worked closely with the Government of Botswana and partners on legal documentation that would grant citizenship for long-term refugees and prevent the risk of statelessness. UNHCR remains committed to advancing efforts that will strengthen refugee protection systems and expand access to durable solutions ensuring that safety, dignity, and opportunity become a reality for all.

Botswana’s action also reflects the spirit of the Global Compact on refugees, promoting responsibility-sharing, inclusion, support to host communities, and sustainable solutions. It also underscores the country’s continued commitment to international and regional refugee protection frameworks.

Nearly 117 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide, including 22.7 million in Eastern and Southern Africa. Many remain in protracted situations for years, often with limited prospects for rebuilding their lives.

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In Pretoria (regional), Duniya Aslam Khan, [email protected], +27 834585720