UNHCR welcomes strengthened commitments to voluntary repatriation of Congolese refugees from Zambia
UNHCR welcomes strengthened commitments to voluntary repatriation of Congolese refugees from Zambia
Delegations from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, and UNHCR formally sign the Tripartite Joint Communiqué in Kolwezi, marking renewed collaboration on voluntary repatriation efforts.
Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of the Congo – 12 March 2026 - UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, welcomes the renewed commitments made by the Governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Zambia during the 9th meeting of the Tripartite Commission on the voluntary repatriation of Congolese refugees living in Zambia.
Facilitated by UNHCR, the Tripartite Meeting brought together senior officials and technical experts from both governments to review progress made to date and to agree on concrete steps to advance voluntary repatriation in safety and dignity for the thousands of Congolese refugees who continue to express a desire to return home.
The meeting concluded with a series of key decisions, captured in a joint communiqué, including the resumption of voluntary repatriation movements; strengthened mechanisms to collect intentions to return; and a mission by DRC authorities to refugee settlements in Zambia to provide updated information on conditions in areas of return. The parties also committed to mobilizing additional resources to support repatriation and reintegration efforts, and to holding regular coordination meetings—both in‑person and online—to ensure effective follow-up.
Sustained international support is essential to translate these commitments into meaningful action. UNHCR therefore calls on donors, international financial institutions and development partners to support these efforts, which are critical for peace and recovery in the region.
For decades, cycles of violence and instability in the DRC have forced millions of families to flee their homes, often multiple times, stripping them of safety and opportunities to rebuild their lives. This agreement represents an important step in restoring hope, dignity and stability for thousands of refugees. UNHCR stands ready to work with all stakeholders to turn these commitments into lasting solutions.
The joint communique issued following the Tripartite meeting is available in English and French.
For more information, please contact:
- In Kinshasa, Mapendo Simon Lubuku, [email protected] +243819500202
- In Lusaka, Kelvin Shimoh, [email protected], +260979585832
