Refugees in Tanzania have appealed to President Samia Suluhu Hassan and all Tanzanians to continue protecting peace and stability in the country, saying the loss of peace has previously forced them to leave everything behind and seek safety across borders.
The appeal was made in Dar es Salaam during the commemoration of World Refugee Day, observed every June under the global theme “For a world where every person is safe.”
The event brought together refugees living in the city, who represented a total of 155,811 refugees hosted in different parts of the country.
Speaking during the event, refugees said Tanzania has remained a place of hope and safety for many families who fled conflict and insecurity in their home countries.
They emphasized that peace is the most important foundation for life, development, and dignity, noting that without it people are forced into suffering, displacement, and loss of livelihoods.
They called on President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Tanzanians to safeguard the existing peace, stressing that stability in Tanzania has allowed them to rebuild their lives, access services, and live with dignity despite being far from their countries of origin.
Minister Katambi, speaking to refugees gathered in Dar es Salaam who represented those living across the country, said Tanzania should learn from the experiences of neighboring countries that have faced instability.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continue supporting refugees wherever they are hosted in the country, ensuring they receive necessary services in accordance with national and international humanitarian principles.
He further emphasized that the government will continue to protect peace and security, noting that stability remains essential for both citizens and refugees to engage in productive economic activities and contribute to development.
The government also used the occasion to encourage continued cooperation between refugees, host communities, and authorities, highlighting that Tanzania’s long-standing tradition of hospitality is built on peace, unity, and mutual respect.
