Envoys assure Congolese refugees of peace

NORTHERN PROVINCE GICUMBI — Heads of Diplomatic Missions accredited to Rwanda, have promised to accelerate the return of peace in the troubled eastern DR. Congo, in order to facilitate peaceful repatriation of all Congolese refugees in exile. “We are doing all that is possible to return peace to eastern DR. Congo, to create a harmonious environment for the repatriation of all Congolese Refugees,” said Burundi’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Serge Karongano. The Ambassador, and a delegation of other diplomats to Rwanda, were in Gicumbi on Wednesday-to meet over 3,000 Congolese refugees at Gihembe refugee camp. Dutch Ambassador to Rwanda, Frans Makken, also assured the refugees that diplomatic efforts to return peace to their country are in progress and there is hope for them to bear fruits. “There is much optimism in the diplomatic efforts so far done to accelerate the return of peace in eastern DR. Congo, to create an atmosphere for the repatriation of all Congolese refugees living in exile,” said Makken. Addressing the visiting delegation, the area Mayor, Bonane Nyangezi, said the district works closely with Gihembe refugees in the fight to eradicate the spread of HIV/AIDS, maintaining security at the camp and protection of the environment. “We work hand in hand with refugees’ internal administration to protect the environment, maintain security and provide health facilities in the camp and its surrounding areas,” said Nyangezi. The US Ambassador to Rwanda, Stuart Symington, Belgium’s Ambassador Ivo Goemans, the Federal Republic of Germany Consular, Frank Maier and South African First Secretary for Political Affairs, Booi Mbelengwa were also present. Other members of the delegation included representatives of UNHCR, WHO, WFPA, USAID, MONUC and WFP working in the country. During their visit, the diplomats inspected various facilities meant for the refugees in order to assess service delivery. They inspected the maternity ward, nutrition center, pharmacy and the out- patients department at Gihembe Refugees’ hospital. They further inspected water installations including the water pumping machines and water tanks. The facilities were installed at the camp by American Refugee Committee (ARC). The ARC manager, Jennifer Nantale, told the visiting diplomats that in addition to providing clean water to the refugees, their organisation also provides services in HIV/AIDS awareness and general public health. Ends