Meheba (Zambia) : the World Bank at the bedside of refugees

The World Bank has approved a grant of 30 million US dollars to improve living conditions of refugees and host communities in Zambia. The Meheba camp is directly concerned by this funding, particularly for the development of income-generating activities. Awareness-raising efforts are already underway in the camp to promote these initiatives. INFO SOS Médias Burundi

According to a press release from the World Bank, the main objective of this aid is to explore all available opportunities to improve the situation of most vulnerable populations. It includes grants facilitating access to socio-economic opportunities.

Targeted investments

Initially, the project will finance investments in social and economic activities in and around the Meheba camp. Among priorities identified are strengthening climate-resilient community infrastructure, supporting agribusiness and improving livelihoods. Last week, awareness-raising sessions were held in the camp, accompanied by a meeting between a group of refugees representing the agricultural sector and World Bank special envoys. Also present were representatives of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the NGO Caritas, which supports income-generating activities among refugees in Zambia.

The consulted group consisted of three Burundian refugees, three Congolese, three Angolans and two members of the Zambian host community.

Views and expectations

“This project will strengthen the enabling environment, community infrastructure and support for agribusiness,” said a World Bank representative. He added that the initiative aims to transform refugee-hosting areas into real economic hubs, while boosting the inclusion of refugees.

For his part, the UNHCR representative stressed the importance of the project in supporting the Zambian government’s efforts to find durable solutions for displaced people. Agricultural activities, in particular, are considered essential to combat food insecurity.

Expected benefits

The project will directly benefit refugees and host communities through several initiatives including improving health and education services, expanding access to electricity and rehabilitating road infrastructure.

In addition, part of the funding will be earmarked for direct cash transfers to the most vulnerable people.

Local concerns

Despite the enthusiasm generated by this aid, some refugees are expressing concerns. “We fear that the host community will be privileged to the detriment of refugees. We demand rigorous monitoring by the World Bank to ensure equitable distribution of resources,” said a local leader in Meheba camp.

A Burundian farmer added, “We need quality seeds, chemical fertilizers and insecticides to ensure good harvests. Agriculture is a priority for the camp.”

Regarding cash transfers, refugees advocate for universal distribution. “Here, every refugee is vulnerable. Everyone should benefit from this assistance,” they recommend.

Zambia currently hosts more than 100,000 refugees, including 27,000 in Meheba camp. Of these, about 3,000 are from Burundi.