News and Stories

On June 23, 2026, Bujumbura hosted the celebration of World Refugee Day, which also marked the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention. Held under the theme “Until everyone is safe,” the event brought together the Government of Burundi, UNHCR, JRS, refugee communities, and partners to reaffirm their commitment to the protection, dignity, and inclusion of forcibly displaced people. JRS Burundi-Tanzania showcased the impact of its education programmes, which currently support more than 27,500 refugee children and 24 university scholarship recipients.

Thanks to the “Komeza Wige” project, led by JRS in partnership with UNICEF, girls’ school enrolment has jumped to more than 85%, dropouts have been reduced to zero and the courtyard of the Mvugo basic school has been transformed into a green haven of peace. The story of a renaissance in which education has regained its humanity.

Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) is playing a central role in disseminating the results of a major scientific study on the well-being of displaced children, anchoring the TeamUp approach in Burundi’s communities and institutions.

With the aim of continuing its mission to accompany, serve and defend the cause of forcibly displaced people, so that they can heal, learn and build their future in community, JRS Burundi-Tanzania under UNHCR funding through the DAFI scholarship offered an internship to 26 winners of this scholarship so that these young refugees and returnees can transform their academic career into high-level expertise capable of influencing the economic development of their nation.

Dzaleka Refugee Camp, a new digital pathway is changing lives. JRS Malawi’s Digital Inclusion Programme and a partnership with Give Internet, refugee youth are gaining the tools, skills, and connectivity needed to access the global online economy. What was once a barrier is now an opportunity, empowering young people to earn, grow, and reclaim their sense of dignity and independence.

A workshop for exchange and evaluation of the “Women En Route” program was held from March 26 to 28, 2026 in Bujumbura. Funded by Alboan and implemented by JRS Burundi-Tanzania, this program (called Mieza in Burundi) supports women and girls who are victims of gender-based violence.

A spirit of hope and solidarity filled Maningane, Mozambique, as partners came together to deepen a relationship rooted in compassion and shared mission. Their visit offered a powerful opportunity to witness the impact of their support and engage more closely with the community. More than a celebration of progress, the moment reaffirmed a collective commitment to standing with displaced and host families through education, resilience, and care.

A moment of faith and solidarity marked the visit of the Apostolic Nuncio to JRS Ethiopia, as refugees, staff, and volunteers gathered in Addis Ababa for a heartfelt celebration of Holy Mass. Beyond the liturgy, the visit created space for listening and encounter, as refugees shared their lived realities and hopes for the future. It was a powerful reminder of the Church’s enduring commitment to accompany displaced communities with compassion, dignity, and hope.

In the heart of Kakuma refugee camp, Nyadak is rewriting what it means to be a girl. Once held back by barriers that silence many, she now dares to dream, of becoming an accountant, of speaking up, of changing her community. For her, education is more than a classroom; it is a safe space, a voice, and the beginning of a future she now believes is truly hers.