Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata and Precious Manomano
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to refugee protection and inclusion.
Speaking ahead of World Refugee Day, which will be commemorated on June 20, 2025, under the theme “Solidarity with Refugees”, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Deputy Minister Mercy Dinha said Zimbabwe was currently hosting 17 200 refugees, mainly from the Democratic Republic of Congo (76 percent), Mozambique (11 percent), Burundi (4 percent), Rwanda (3 percent) and other nationalities constituting 6 percent of the population.
She said the number is expected to increase to 18 000 by the end of 2025 due to ongoing instability in parts of Africa.
“The principles of international refugee law were domesticated into national legislation through the Zimbabwe Refugees Act (Chapter 4:03) and other supporting policies,” said deputy minister Dinha.
“These frameworks are supported by the 2013 Constitution, which extends social protection rights and potential pathways to naturalisation for refugees.”
The deputy minister said Zimbabwe employs a settlement-based policy, with most refugees residing at Tongogara Refugee Camp in Manicaland Province. However, she said professional and entrepreneurial refugees were permitted to live outside the camp under special arrangements.
To promote integration and access to services, the Government is issuing civil documentation, including birth certificates, national IDs and refugee passports.
Deputy Minister Dinha said the move was part of Zimbabwe’s six pledges made at the 2019 Global Refugee Forum, which were renewed in 2023.
The pledges include improved access to education, sports, civil documentation, asylum rights and a review of refugee legislation.
“In fulfilment of our pledges, the Government has allocated 175 hectares of irrigable land to refugees in Tongogara,” Deputy Minister Dinha said.
“We are also supporting livelihood projects and facilitating participation in national sports leagues.”
UNHCR Zimbabwe Country Representative Mr Boubacar Bamba welcomed the Government’s efforts, describing Zimbabwe as a reliable partner in refugee protection.
“Solidarity with refugees must go beyond words. It means action,” said Mr Bamba.
“Zimbabwe has provided land, health services, education, and access to clean water at Tongogara Camp. These are critical components of self-reliance and dignity.”
Mr Bamba also said some refugees living in urban areas like Harare were contributing to the national economy through entrepreneurship and skills-based work.
He said one refugee footballer from Tongogara recently signed with a Zimbabwean Division 1 club.
“This is a clear sign of integration,” Mr Bamba said.
“Despite global funding constraints, we are witnessing real impact through local and international collaboration.”
The main World Refugee Day celebrations will take place at Tongogara Refugee Camp, with participation from Government officials, UN agencies, NGOs and the refugee community.
Zimbabwe’s refugee policy is under review to align with emerging global standards and the country’s National Development Strategy, which emphasizes inclusive growth.
“We are committed to ensuring that no one and no place is left behind,” deputy minister Dinha said.
