03/30/2004

The number of Burundians returning has overwhelmed UNHCR’s capacity and could ignite social unrest in the provinces expected to receive returnees. UNHCR currently facilitates and conducts repatriation mainly through Muyinga, Cankuso and Ruyigi Provinces until security can improve in other provinces in Burundi. UNHCR has decided to open an office in Makamba Province in April when the border entry point will be opened. RI was told by many NGOs in the field that the repatriation is moving too fast without major social issues being addressed.