Nakivale (Uganda) : an imposed curfew raises questions

SOS Médias Burundi

Nakivale, October 2, 2025 – A curfew has been imposed at the Nakivale refugee camp in southwest Uganda, home to more than 150,000 refugees, including more than 33,000 Burundians. The measure, which prohibits all movement after 10 p.m., aims to curb the crime rate that has become a concern in this multicultural camp where refugees from more than ten nationalities live. All businesses, shops, and bars must now close before this time.

The decision was made following a security meeting held last weekend, bringing together the camp administration, the police, and the UNHCR. Local authorities and the refugees themselves are concerned about the upsurge in crimes.

“Reports show that at least eight refugees have been killed, found dead in and around the camp. Unacceptable. We must find these criminals,” declared the camp commander, who also acts as the site president.

The most alarming case is that of a refugee found beheaded in the Kabazana area two weeks ago. “He was buried like this! This murder remains etched in our hearts. It could have been a Congolese, but no one has yet reported him missing,” explained a Burundian leader.

Another case, a month earlier in the same area, was equally atrocious : his executioners had even mutilated his genitals.

Skeptical refugees

Some refugees doubt the effectiveness of the curfew :
“The police are the most corrupt in this camp, and they are even complicit because the investigations never lead to anything! And they are the ones enforcing this curfew! We doubt its impact!” they respond.

Others remain more cautious :
“For now, this measure may help us find out who is behind these acts of banditry and murders, because it is mainly police officers who patrol at night,” they add.

In addition to murders, the camp also records numerous cases of stolen motorcycles. Refugees are demanding to be involved in night patrols to better ensure security in their villages and residential areas.