DRC-Zambia-UNHCR: 9th Tripartite Commission Meeting on Refugee Repatriation

Kolwezi, Lualaba - March 11, 2026 - The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in coordination with the Congolese and Zambian authorities, convened the 9th meeting of the DRC-Zambia-UNHCR Tripartite Commission from March 10 to 12 in Kolwezi, the capital of Lualaba Province. The meeting aims to promote voluntary repatriation of Congolese refugees in Zambia and Zambian refugees in the DRC, ensure security in return areas, and support the reintegration of returnees. Governor Fifi Masuka emphasized that the discussions would strengthen cooperation and develop constructive guidelines for the benefit of the affected populations. Éric Mukandila, Permanent Secretary of the National Commission for Refugees (CNR), warned that ongoing armed conflicts, including the AFC-M23 rebellion, continue to displace populations both internally and across borders. Pierre Atchom, UNHCR Representative in the DRC, highlighted that 11,523 Congolese refugees (3,150 households) were repatriated from Zambia between 2023 and 2025, reaffirming UNHCR’s commitment to supporting returns and reintegration. The DRC is undertaking initiatives to monitor borders, strengthen community protection, rehabilitate schools and health centers, and promote economic empowerment through value chains, contributing to peace and food security. The meeting will culminate in the adoption of a response plan to facilitate the large-scale return of refugees, in accordance with the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and the principle of non-refoulement.