Kinshasa is hosting from Tuesday 9 to Thursday 12 June the second tripartite meeting between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Central African Republic (CAR) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The gathering brings together Congolese, Central African and UNHCR experts to discuss the voluntary repatriation of Central African refugees currently in the DRC.

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

Éric Mukandila, Permanent Secretary of the National Commission for Refugees (CNR) and head of the DRC delegation, emphasized that the voluntary repatriation process resumed after conflict-affected areas were stabilized and following a 2019 agreement between the DRC, CAR and UNHCR. He noted that 40,000 Central Africans have already returned to CAR between 2019 and now, facilitated by the UNHCR in collaboration with both governments.

Mukandila stressed the need for an in-depth review to address challenges faced by returnees: “This situation has caused frustration among those awaiting repatriation, making a thorough examination essential to develop solutions that ensure safe and dignified returns.”

Mesmin Guenguebe Mbari, Advisor for Territorial Development in CAR and head of the CAR delegation, highlighted the country’s ambitious plans for 2026. He announced that nearly 60,000 refugees are expected to return from various host countries, supported by an innovative development strategy focused on creating economic hubs in return areas. Mbari called for pragmatic discussions, citing the need to assess the real impact of assistance provided to returnees and their integration into local communities.