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Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and supporting refugees amid a growing influx of people fleeing conflicts in neighbouring countries.
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Mulambo Haimbe, said Zambia remained committed to its longstanding tradition of hosting refugees while seeking to improve their livelihoods alongside the welfare of its citizens.
Haimbe was speaking in Lusaka on Wednesday when he received Letters of Credence from Zephania Mburuki Amuri, accrediting him as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Representative to Zambia.
“Zambia has a longstanding tradition of hosting refugees and remains a hub for those seeking safety and protection,” he said.
Haimbe underscored the importance of the country’s longstanding partnership with UNHCR in strengthening refugee protection and promoting sustainable solutions for displaced people.
He called for further support from the agency in addressing emerging challenges associated with hosting an increasingly diverse and growing refugee population.
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The Minister also said Government’s development priorities under the Grow Zambia Agenda were aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reaffirming the country’s openness to working with bilateral and multilateral partners to advance shared objectives and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
In his remarks, Amuri commended Zambia for its approach to hosting refugees and its refugee policies, saying the country had set an example for the region and the wider international community.
“Zambia is setting a positive example in the region and the world, through its welcoming approach to hosting refugees and its progressive refugee policies,” Amuri said.
He said Zambia’s longstanding role as a refugee-hosting country would be highlighted during commemorations marking 60 years of hosting refugees.
Amuri expressed anticipation for deeper engagement with the Zambian Government, noting that addressing the challenges associated with hosting refugees required collective action.
“Addressing the challenges arising from Zambia role as a refugee-hosting country requires collective efforts,” he said.
He acknowledged the unique circumstances facing Zambia and stressed the importance of continued cooperation in responding to the needs of refugees and host communities.
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