GICUMBI- Congolese refugees living in Gihembe Refugee Camp and other camps in the country will soon be repatriated to their motherland.

This was revealed, yesterday, by the Executive Secretary for the National Council of Refugees, Innocent Ngango, and the UNHCR Country Representative Annette Nyekan, during celebrations to mark World Refugees Day at Gihembe Refugee Camp.

"Governments of Rwanda, DRC together with UNHCR are making all necessary arrangements to ensure Congolese refugees are repatriated to their motherland in the most peaceful and dignified manner,” Ngango said. 

He further urged the refugees to work in close collaboration with UNHCR and other humanitarian agencies operating at Gihembe Refugee camp, to guarantee their social wellbeing.
In reference to the World Refugees Day’s theme, "they took my home but they can’t take my future,” Ngango called upon refugees to be optimistic about returning to their homeland in the near future.

In her speech, Nyekan advised the refugees to appreciate the assistance rendered to them by UNHCR and other humanitarian agencies at the camp, however little it may be.

"We are much aware that refugee life is a difficult one, which is why you should appreciate the assistance rendered to you during your stay at this camp,” Nyekan said, adding that UNHCR is committed to working with the Rwandan government to ensure quick repatriation of Congolese refugees.

"Despite having left your country against your will, you should not despair because a better future is ahead,” added Nyekan.

During the celebrations, some refugee couples got marriage certificates. Others were awarded sports equipment and household materials, for their exemplary performance in sports activities and art.

Congolese refugees form majority of the over 20,000 foreign refugees who are currently in Rwanda.

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