The Ministry of Justice has received a low number of applications from refugees seeking to integrate into local communities.
As a result, Minister Machana Shamukuni has encouraged refugees to consider local integration as an option.
Speaking at a Refugee Day commemoration in Dukwi on Thursday, he highlighted that local integration would allow refugees to apply for land and settle anywhere in the country, granting them citizenship.
He emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and conducive stay for refugees in Botswana until a permanent solution is found.
Minister Shamukuni acknowledged that refugees flee their homes to escape conflict and persecution, with the primary goal of protecting their lives. He reiterated Botswana's commitment to providing a safe haven for refugees and mentioned ongoing dialogues with various stakeholders to offer hope and create durable solutions for them.
Last year, he noted, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the government of Switzerland hosted the second Global Refugee Forum, where Botswana made four pledges aimed at improving refugee lives. These included reviewing the Refugee (Recognition and Control) Act cap 25:01, including refugees in the National Development Agenda, issuing identity and travel documents, and integrating long-term cases, unaccompanied minors, and individuals at risk of statelessness.
The ministry, with the support of key stakeholders, has made significant progress toward achieving these pledges.
The fundamental opportunity to welcome refugees is to have a legislative framework aligned with the United Nations Convention relating to their status, he said.
He announced that in the next session of Parliament, he would present a bill to amend the Refugees Recognition and Control Act to align it with international practices.
Minister Shamukuni also acknowledged the ongoing resettlement efforts, with 289 individuals undergoing resettlement procedures to other host countries.
Refugee Welfare Committee chairperson, Mr. Lukusa Bakampeta, appreciated the governments response to their request for permission to seek temporary employment outside the camp. He urged the government to grant permits to qualified refugees, allowing them to contribute to the community that has hosted them for many years.
He noted that many refugees have been in Botswana for over 20 years, with their children considering Dukwi their home. He also appealed to the government to expedite the local integration process for those who have applied, enabling them to rebuild their lives in Botswana.
