(Ecofin Agency) - The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) announced in a Feb 17^th statement it wants to mobilize $222.6 million to support its humanitarian action for Burundian refugees.

According to the organization, the funds will be used to finance the 2021 Burundi Regional Refugee Response Plan, as well as the Joint Refugee Return and Reintegration Plan. The First step will be to guarantee refugees the provision of food, shelter and educational services, as well as access to health care and water, which has become vital in the current health context.

Secondly, part of the money will help facilitate the "voluntary, safe and dignified" return of those who choose to return home. A process that has been revived since President Evariste Ndayishimiye came to power. By 2021, the UNHCR hopes to return up to 143,000 Burundian refugees to their homes.

“Increased international support is crucial to ensure Burundian refugees receive meaningful protection and care in neighboring countries,’’ said Clementine Nkweta-Salami, UNHCR’s Regional Director for the East, Horn of Africa and Great Lakes region.

Overall, 315,000 Burundian refugees will benefit from the new aid, provided that the appeal for funds is heard by donors.

In 2020, the $293 million appeal for funds launched in response to the situation of Burundian refugees was only 40% funded according to the UNHCR.

Moutiou Adjibi Nourou