Norway is the only developed country that has done anything to relieve the suffering of some of the refugees who were evacuated from Libya and are now accommodated at Gashora Transit Centre.

Not only has it donated close to Rwf 3 billion to the exercise, but it has also committed to taking in 600 of them this year.

Rwanda has always been a safe haven for refugees fleeing persecution, but most of them have been from the neighbouring countries of Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). So it says a lot about extending its hospitality well beyond the region.

The refugee population in Rwanda has for the past 25 years or so been dominated by DRC citizens. But ever since the upheaval in neighbouring Burundi erupted in 2015 following President Nkurunziza’s decision to pursue a third-term, tens of thousands of Burundians began pouring in across our borders. They now account to nearly half the estimated 130,000 refugees.

By all standards, Rwanda has accounted well for itself by giving refugees a new home away from home. But other countries also need to step in just like the United Kingdom. It has just contributed Rwf 3.7 billion towards the Burundian refugees in Mahama.

So, how does one stem the refugee tide?

The refugee saga in Libya is fueled by poor seeking greener pastures in the rich nations across the sea, some of which may, in one way or another, have a part to play in the breakdown of the migrant’s country of origin.

So no matter what dangers they face, they will always attempt the dangerous crossings, why not just give them safe passage? Most are young, strong and all they want is to work for their upkeep; what could be so bad about that?