Stop harbouring refugees, headmen warned

has cautioned village headmen and other traditional leaders in Chiengi and Nchelenge against harbouring refugees in the villages but ensure that they report their presence to the relevant authorities.

And Home Affairs Minister Stephen Kampyongo says government is deeply saddened by the death of seven Congolese refugees who drowned on Friday on Lake Mweru in Chiengi district when the boat they were travelling in capsized. Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka yesterday, Mr Kampyongo said government received the tragic death of seven Congolese refugees with deep regret.

Mr Kampyongo said all the deceased children and adolescents were part of the group of refugees who had left Kenani transit centre in Nchelenge district to return home to DRC without informing the authorities. He said according to the report he received, the accident occurred when a banana boat laden with luggage and people capsized and sank while it was being towed by another boat carrying the refugees. He explained that as a result of strong winds, the boat capsized before they could reach Kasote village leading to the death of 7 children. The Minister said the surviving refugees are currently being sheltered at Chiengi refuge reception centre awaiting relocation to Kenani transit centre where they will receive further assistance before they can be settled at Mantapala refugee settlement.

Mr Kampyongo has since cautioned traditional leaders against harbouring refugees in their villages but ensure that they report to relevant authorities to prevent future tragedies.

He urged all the refugees who intend to return to DRC to follow the laid down procedures for their own benefit.