In Central Africa, the humanitarian crisis has reached unprecedented levels, affecting more than 10.8 million people. Countries such as Rwanda and the DRC are hosting hundreds of thousands of refugees and displaced persons despite limited resources. The decline in international funding is weakening aid programs and the protection of vulnerable populations. In response to these challenges, states and regional organizations are stepping up initiatives to find sustainable and collective solutions.
Africa is facing a remarkable humanitarian crisis, worsened by conflicts, climate change, and weakening economies. In Central Africa, the situation is alarming, with more than 10.8 million people displaced including 2.8 million refugees and 7.5 million internally displaced persons.Given the limited response capacity of states and their reliance on international aid, the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) is calling for increased regional mobilization and cooperation to find sustainable solutions.
“In August 2025, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, (UNHCR) estimated the total number of forcibly displaced people in Central Africa at 10,800,000, including 2,831,919 refugees and asylum seekers and 7,512,396 internally displaced persons. These figures highlight the urgency and magnitude of the collective responsibility we share. ”
Ézéchiel Nibigira, President of the Economic Community of Central African States – Burundi
Des pays comme le Rwanda et la RDC accueillent des centaines de milliers de réfugiés malgré des ressources limitées. Le Rwanda héberge près de 137 000 réfugiés, principalement issus de la RDC et du Burundi, tandis que la RDC compte plus de 5,7 millions de déplacés internes et plus de 500 000 réfugiés. Ces États poursuivent des politiques de porte ouverte et d’intégration, mais la baisse du financement international menace la continuité de l’aide et la protection des plus vulnérables.
“ My government is firmly committed to exploring, in collaboration with the refugees’ countries of origin, ways and means to seek sustainable solutions for those who wish to return to their home countries. At the same time, the Democratic Republic of Congo is actively engaged in pursuing peace in the eastern part of the country. ”
Jacquemain Shabani Lukoo, Vice-Prime Minister – DR Congo
The decrease in contributions from international donors directly weakens humanitarian programs. African countries are calling for a renewal of the global partnership, based on shared responsibility and community resilience. In the face of increasing crises, only sustainable international cooperation can guarantee security, dignity, and access to lasting solutions for refugees and displaced persons.
“Rwanda reaffirms its commitment to the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of refugees, considering this approach a key pillar of lasting solutions. In this regard, the country calls on the international community to support peace efforts and promote voluntary repatriation in the Great Lakes region, thereby offering refugees hope and the opportunity to return home. ”
Albert Murasira, Minister of Emergency Management – Rwanda
Regional initiatives are multiplying: ECCAS is preparing a harmonized regional asylum policy, Rwanda is implementing its 2025–2030 strategy to make 50% of refugee households self-reliant, and the DRC is organizing voluntary returns supported by reintegration programs. These efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to building solid and sustainable African solutions, capable of turning vulnerability into resilience despite declining international funding.
