Burundi has launched an ambitious plan to repatriate and reintegrate tens of thousands of refugees who fled to Tanzania during the 2015 political crisis, but international partners warn that US$82 million in funding is still missing and human rights concerns are mounting.
Since the 2015 unrest, triggered by the controversial third term of the late President Pierre Nkurunziza, more than 300,000 Burundians have returned from neighboring countries. The government now aims to repatriate an additional 100,000 refugees by mid-2026, while providing support to ensure sustainable reintegration in their home communities.
A meeting on March 2 brought together Burundian authorities and international partners to present the national repatriation plan. According to official figures, 37,000 refugees have returned so far in 2026, averaging more than 8,000 returns per week, well above initial projections.
Brigitte Mukanga-Eno, the UNHCR representative in Burundi, welcomed the pace of returns but stressed that repatriation must be accompanied by effective reintegration. “Return must be accompanied by robust reintegration. Without support in the areas of return, some may be forced to leave again,” she said.
Funding remains a major hurdle. The Burundian government estimates that $82 million is required to ensure the repatriation and reintegration of the 100,000 refugees still residing in camps in Tanzania, but this sum has yet to be secured. UN agencies pledged continued support to assist the government once the funds become available.
Nestor Bimenyimana, Director General of Repatriation, announced plans to close the [“place”,”Nduta”] and Nyarugusu return before these deadlines. A tripartite meeting in Nyanza, Tanzania, will finalize arrangements for the remaining 100,000 people.
On the ground, however, some refugees have denounced what they describe as forced repatriation. Testimonies gathered by SOS Médias Burundi report concerns over destroyed homes, schools, and health centers, and claims that returnees’ rights are being violated. Some refugees have fled to other countries in the sub-region and Southern Africa in response. The UNHCR has said it is monitoring the situation but faces constraints in protecting those at risk.
Despite these challenges, Burundian authorities argue that the repatriation and reintegration program is crucial for national stability and development. Officials say it will strengthen social cohesion in areas of return, rebuild communities, and support economic recovery in regions affected by the 2015 crisis.
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The program represents a critical step in addressing the long-term displacement caused by political violence. International observers emphasize the need for adequate funding, coordination, and adherence to human rights standards to ensure that returns are safe, voluntary, and sustainable.
As the deadline for camp closures approaches, both the Burundian government and international partners face urgent pressure to mobilize resources and implement measures that balance humanitarian protection with national reintegration objectives, ensuring that the next phase of returns does not exacerbate vulnerability or insecurity among displaced populations.
The situation highlights the broader challenges faced by countries managing large-scale refugee returns, particularly when infrastructure has been destroyed and communities are still recovering from years of conflict. Successful reintegration will require careful planning, sufficient funding, and cooperation between governments, UN agencies, and local communities.
