Meeting between DRC, RCA and UNHCR representatives

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Kinshasa is hosting from Tuesday 9 to Thursday 12 June a crucial tripartite meeting between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Central African Republic (RCA) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The gathering aims to accelerate the voluntary repatriation of Central African refugees currently living in the DRC.

Pierre Atchom, UNHCR Representative in the DRC, revealed that 22,604 biometrically registered Central African refugees remain in the country, primarily in North Ubangi, South Ubangi and Bas Uele provinces. Additionally, 65,000 new asylum seekers arrived in May 2025 in Zapaï, located in the Ango territory (Bas Uele).

Éric Mukandila, Permanent Secretary of the National Commission for Refugees (CNR) and head of the DRC delegation, emphasized that repatriation efforts resumed after previously conflict-affected areas were stabilized and following a 2019 agreement between the DRC, RCA and UNHCR. He noted that 40,000 Central Africans have already returned to their country since 2019 under safe and dignified conditions facilitated by UNHCR in collaboration with both governments.

“Given the frustration among returnees, a thorough reassessment is essential to identify solutions ensuring their safe and dignified return,” Mukandila stated. He underscored the importance of the Yaoundé Declaration of 2022, which promotes a regional approach to durable solutions for those displaced by the Central African crisis.

Mesmin Guenguebe Mbari, Advisor for Territorial Development in the Central African Republic and head of the RCA delegation, highlighted his country’s ambitious plans: up to 60,000 refugees could return from various host nations this year. He emphasized the need for pragmatic discussions to evaluate the integration of returnees into local communities and assess the real impact of assistance provided.

Samyr Lukombo