Growing concern has emerged over the situation of Burundian refugees in Tanzania following reports that authorities are demolishing homes and churches in refugee camps, pressuring thousands of displaced people to return to Burundi after years in exile.
According to Burundi’s Interior Minister Leonidas Ndaruzaniye, more than 100,000 Burundian refugees are expected to be repatriated by June under an agreement between the two countries. The announcement has raised concerns among humanitarian groups and refugee advocates over the conditions under which the repatriation is taking place.
Refugee Camps Affected
As of late 2025, approximately 142,000 Burundian refugees were living in camps in Tanzania, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Many fled Burundi during years of civil conflict, political repression, and economic hardship in the Great Lakes region of Africa.
Refugees have reported that Tanzanian security forces have overseen the destruction of homes in the Nduta Refugee Camp and Nyarugusu Refugee Camp, two of the largest camps hosting Burundian refugees.
One refugee, identified only as Gerard, a 33-year-old former nurse who lived in Nduta camp, told media that demolitions began in early January.
“They come with large tree trunks to break the walls of our adobe brick houses. We can’t do anything because the police shoot at us if we try to resist,” he said in an interview conducted by phone.
Residents say entire sections of the camps have been destroyed, including churches, while schools and health facilities have reportedly been closed. Some refugees also claim they have been prevented from leaving their homes to farm, further worsening living conditions.
Allegations of Coercion
Experts and human rights observers have raised questions about whether the repatriation process is voluntary.
Stephanie Schwartz, a researcher at the London School of Economics, described the situation as highly concerning.
“It is 100 percent coercion, and in that way, very illegal,” she said.
Several refugees have also expressed frustration over what they perceive as limited intervention by UNHCR in the unfolding situation.
In a statement, UNHCR said it had “observed and expressed serious concern over actions taken by Tanzanian authorities in the refugee camps that have put significant pressure on Burundian refugees to sign up for repatriation.”
Repatriation Agreement Between Tanzania and Burundi
Burundi and Tanzania signed an agreement in December to facilitate the return of refugees at a rate of up to 3,000 people per week, according to UNHCR. Approximately 28,000 Burundians have already returned to their home country this year.
However, rights activists warn that many refugees fear persecution upon returning to Burundi, arguing that some returnees may be viewed as political dissidents by the government.
A senior Burundian official, speaking anonymously, rejected claims of forced repatriation, insisting the country has become stable.
“The refugees are returning because there is peace,” the official said, adding that demolitions targeted only homes belonging to those who had already agreed to return.
Humanitarian Concerns Continue
Despite official assurances, many refugees say they feel they have little choice but to return.
One refugee from Nyarugusu camp said families are being forced to choose between living without shelter or registering for repatriation.
Humanitarian organizations continue to monitor the situation closely, warning that forced displacement and involuntary repatriation could violate international refugee protection standards.
