Tackling the root causes of displacement – strengthening host regions

Context

Rwanda has been a host country for displaced people for several decades. Many will not be able to return to their countries of origin for the foreseeable future. This has created the challenge of integrating them into Rwandan society both economically and socially.

There is currently a lack of services to promote economic inclusion, and so investment is needed in the following areas: vocational training, support for start-up companies, business training and advice, and integration into the labour market.

Objective

The economic inclusion of displaced people and residents of selected neighbouring communities in Rwanda has been improved.

Approach

The project aims to improve conditions for displaced people, and to this end is strengthening the Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management’s (MINEMA) specialist knowledge and human resources capacities. The project is also raising awareness at other ministries and institutions in order to enhance the economic inclusion of displaced persons. In addition, the project helps local administrations to identify and implement measures to promote economic development in and around refugee camps.

Support is also being provided for business start-ups and expansions in refugee camps and surrounding regions in the form of initial and further training programmes, coaching and advisory services, as well as the facilitating of financial services.

The project offers short training courses to improve vocational training for young refugees and young people in the neighbouring communities.

In parallel, accompanying measures are being implemented in the areas of psychosocial support, conflict transformation and the promotion of dialogue. This is helping to raise awareness among employers and vocational teachers of the psychosocial effects of experiencing displacement and violence. In addition, support is available to enable people to constructively handle any conflicts or stressful situations that may arise in working environments.

Last update: March 2023