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The government has reiterated that it has no intention of granting citizenship to refugees living in camps within Tanzania, insisting that the long-standing policy on temporary protection remains unchanged.
Home Affairs Minister George Simbachawene made the remarks yesterday in Dar es Salaam during the 26th Tripartite Meeting between Tanzania, Burundi and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
The meeting focused on the voluntary repatriation of Burundian refugees as Burundi continues to report improved peace and stability.
Mr Simbachawene said some refugees believe that their extended stay in Tanzania may eventually qualify them for citizenship, but stressed that such expectations are misplaced.
“Let me put this clearly on record,” he said. “Tanzania has no plan to amend its laws or policies to integrate refugees into national development programmes, nor does it intend to turn refugee camps into permanent settlements.”
He said Tanzania’s role remains that of providing temporary protection while working with partners to support dignified repatriation once conditions in the country of origin improve.
Burundi’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Richard Ndayisaba, told the meeting that his government is ready to receive its nationals and is committed to working closely with Tanzania and UNHCR to ensure a smooth return process.
UNHCR’s Representative, Barbara Dotse, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting voluntary return arrangements that uphold the dignity and rights of refugees.
She said UNHCR would continue collaborating with both governments to facilitate safe repatriation pathways.
The meeting was also attended by regional leaders from areas hosting refugee populations: Kigoma Regional Commissioner Ambassador (Ret.) Simon Sirro, Katavi Regional Commissioner Mwanamvua Mrindoko, and Tabora Regional Commissioner Paul Chacha.