Rwanda joined the rest of the world in marking the World Refugee Day on June 20 in an event that was marked by sharing stories of hope. The event held at Norrsken House and organized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA), was observed under the theme: ‘Hope Away from Home, a world where refugees are always included. The event that was mainly marked by honoring the courage and hope of the millions of people globally forced to flee war, violence, and persecution, several refugees in Rwanda came together to share their stories of hope which they gained over time through education, employment, health care services, and entrepreneurship. Speaking at the Minister in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA) Marie Solange Kayisire noted that: “The country has consistently expressed commitment to its international obligation to receive and protect refugees as well as giving them more hope and ensuring their social-economic inclusion. They have access to schools and health care services as well as, the right to work and economic opportunities alongside the host community.” She added: “We are doubling efforts to increase job prospects as well as other economic opportunities to address unmet refugee needs and continue to empower them to be self-reliant,” she added. Aissatou Ndiaye, UNHCR’s Representative in Rwanda stated that, “It is our role to ensure that such opportunities reach a wider selection of the refugee population and create increased hope for the future.” ALSO READ: UNHCR boss on situation of refugees in Rwanda ahead of World Refugee Day This year's celebration showcased how refugees who are doctors, entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, and other displaced populations have been included and can rebuild their lives. In line with that, Jackson Munyaneza 25, an ambitious student who dreams of becoming a doctor and medical professional, is among the refugee community in Kigeme Refugee Camp located in Nyamagabe District in the southern province. He is a Congolese who fled from DR Congo in 2012. Through scholarships and support educational programs in Rwanda, the aspiring doctor was given an opportunity to pursue his dream and transcend the limitations imposed by the displacement. “I resumed from senior two and because it was another golden chance, I worked tirelessly at school to fulfill my dream of being a doctor and as a matter of fact, I am nearly completing a Medicine Bachelor Degree at the University of Rwanda.” Parfait Hakizimana, a husband and father of one, is a Burundian in Mahama Refugee Camp, located in Kirehe District in Eastern Province who fled to Rwanda in 2015. As an athlete who found solace and purpose in Taekwondo revealed that previous refugee’s situations differ from the current one where they were excluded from national affairs, arguing that he has been able to participate in national and international stages representing both his refugee community and newfound home. “The country’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in all those opportunities given to all individuals, regardless of our origin, so, by participating in taekwondo I have been able to connect with fellow athletes, both refugees and Rwandans.” ALSO READ: Mahama refugee camp gets second health center worth Rwf350m According to UNHCR'S report, Rwanda currently hosts over 132,000 refugees, asylum seekers, and other displaced populations. This includes over 7,600 new arrivals fleeing Eastern DRC since the beginning of the year. In Rwanda, refugees have access to national systems such as education, and health, and can be employed on par with Rwandan nationals. UNHCR in Rwanda continues to call for solidarity and responsibility sharing from the international community, not only for those UNHCR protects but also for Rwanda as a host country given the social and economic impact of hosting refugees.
