Rwanda has welcomed 113 new refugees from Libya as part of an ongoing humanitarian effort to provide safe haven for those fleeing conflict and dire conditions. The latest group arrived in Kigali yesterday evening, marking the continuation of a program established under an agreement with the African Union (AU) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
The refugees, including men, women, and children, were greeted at Kigali International Airport by officials from the Ministry of Emergency Management, the UNHCR, and various humanitarian organizations. They were transported to the Gashora Transit Centre, where they will receive medical care, psychological support, and assistance with their resettlement process.
“This initiative reflects Rwanda’s commitment to providing sanctuary for those in need,” said Minister of Emergency Management, Marie Solange Kayisire. “We are proud to offer a safe and welcoming environment where refugees can rebuild their lives.”
The arrival of these refugees is part of Rwanda’s Emergency Transit Mechanism (ETM), which was established in 2019. The ETM was designed to evacuate refugees and asylum seekers facing precarious conditions in Libya, including detention and human trafficking. Since its inception, Rwanda has received over 1,200 refugees through this program.
“We are grateful to Rwanda for its continued leadership and generosity in hosting refugees,” said Fathiaa Abdalla, UNHCR Representative in Rwanda. “The support provided here is crucial in ensuring that these vulnerable individuals have a chance to recover and thrive.”
The new arrivals will undergo health screenings and receive vaccinations as part of the initial intake process. They will then be housed at the Gashora Transit Centre, where they will have access to basic necessities, education, and vocational training programs aimed at fostering self-reliance.
“We fled Libya because of the unbearable conditions and constant fear,” said Abdoulie Jallow, one of the refugees. “Rwanda has given us hope and a chance to start over. We are very grateful for this opportunity.”
The UNHCR and the Rwandan government continue to work closely to facilitate the integration of refugees into Rwandan society, while also seeking long-term solutions such as resettlement to third countries or voluntary repatriation when conditions allow.
Rwanda’s proactive stance on refugee protection has garnered international praise, positioning the country as a model for humanitarian efforts in the region. The government’s policies are aligned with the Global Compact on Refugees, emphasizing shared responsibility and international cooperation.
“We urge the international community to continue supporting these efforts,” Minister Kayisire added. “Collective action is essential to address the refugee crisis and provide sustainable solutions for displaced individuals.”
As Rwanda continues to receive and support refugees from Libya, the focus remains on ensuring their safety, dignity, and ability to build new lives free from the hardships they have endured. The country’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian principles highlights the importance of solidarity and compassion in addressing global refugee challenges.
