Meheba : the new camp leader focuses on dialogue to address refugees’ security concerns

SOS Médias Burundi

Meheba, November 4, 2026 — The new leader of the Meheba refugee camp in Zambia held an emergency meeting with refugees living in Block D, between 29th and 41st Roads. Discussions centered on difficulties obtaining exit permits, known as “gate passes,” stray animals, and a reported increase in banditry. Measures were announced to strengthen security and improve coexistence within the camp.

The issue of exit permits was a major focus of the meeting. Referring to the arrests and imprisonments reported outside the camp, particularly due to the lack of identity documents, the camp official urged refugees not to leave the camp without them.

For their part, the participants explained that delays in issuing permits were a major obstacle to their movement. They asked the administration to take measures to ensure that permits are issued within the required timeframe.

In response, the camp official pledged to issue the “gate passes” within one week. He also announced that their validity period would be extended from one month to three months. This measure was welcomed by the participants, who hope it will facilitate their movements and reduce the risk of arrest.

Stray animals a key concern

The presence of pigs and stray dogs was also denounced as a source of insecurity for the camp residents.

According to participants, stray pigs are destroying crops in the refugees’ fields, while stray dogs pose a risk of bites and injuries to the population.

Faced with this situation, the camp official asked the owners to take responsibility and ensure that their animals do not pose a threat to the community.

They were given two weeks to rectify the situation. Among the measures announced are the vaccination of dogs and the handling of stray animals. Dogs that are not reclaimed may be euthanized, in accordance with the administration’s regulations.

Unauthorized construction and banditry : the administration takes a harder stake

The issue of unauthorized construction was also addressed. The camp official reminded the refugees that they must obtain prior authorization before undertaking any work and must respect the rules established by the administration.

He also expressed his concern about the reported increase in banditry in crop fields and homes. He called on the refugees to become more involved in securing their living environment, particularly by reporting to the authorities anyone suspected of committing crimes or disturbing public order.

The goal is to strengthen collaboration between residents and the administration to prevent crime and maintain peace within the camp.

Expectations following initial commitments

Following the meeting, the refugees present expressed their willingness to collaborate with the administration to contribute to the safety and well-being of the community.

Newly appointed to head the camp administration, this official represents the Zambian Ministry of Homeland Security and Refugees. His approach, focused on dialogue and listening to residents’ concerns, has raised hopes among some refugees.

However, they now expect the announced commitments to translate into concrete actions, particularly regarding the issuance of exit permits, the management of stray animals, and increased security.

The Meheba camp currently hosts over 30,000 refugees, including more than 5,000 Burundians. In this context, the effective implementation of the announced measures could contribute to improving living conditions and coexistence between the different communities.

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Refugees wait to be served by the non-governmental organization Brave Heart at the Meheba camp in Zambia (SOS Médias Burundi)