In 2015, the instability and violence that plagued Burundi forced countless families to seek refuge in neighboring countries. Among these were two brothers, Kagina and Mbanishaka who, with their families, embarked on a harrowing journey to Tanzania. Now, nearly a decade later, the brothers are finally back home, ready to rebuild their lives in a country that has found peace.
A Difficult Departure
Both brothers grew up in a small village near Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi. Their lives were marked by the tranquility of rural living, surrounded by family and community. However, political turmoil and escalating violence in 2015 shattered this peace, compelling the brothers to make a heart-wrenching decision: to leave everything behind and seek safety across the border.
With their wives and children, Kagina and Mbanishaka joined thousands of others fleeing the chaos. The journey to Tanzania was fraught with danger and uncertainty. Traveling by foot and overcrowded vehicles, they faced numerous challenges, from food shortages to the constant threat of violence.
Life in Exile
Upon reaching Tanzania, the brothers and their families were settled in the Nyarugusu refugee camp. Life in the camp was a stark contrast to the one they had left behind. While grateful for the safety it provided, they struggled with the harsh realities of refugee life: inadequate shelter, limited access to healthcare, and constant uncertainty about their future.
Despite these challenges, they found solace in each other’s company and drew strength from their shared determination to provide for their families. Both brothers took on various roles within the camp to earn a modest income.
A Dream of Home
Through the years in exile, the dream of returning to Burundi never waned. Kagina and Mbanishaka kept abreast of news from home, yearning for the day they could return. In 2021, reports of a stabilizing political climate and improving security conditions began to trickle into the camp. Slowly, hope turned into a tangible possibility.
By mid-2023, the situation in Burundi had significantly improved. UNHCR, in collaboration with African Initiatives for Relief and Development, initiated programs to facilitate the safe return of refugees. Kagina and Mbanishaka seized the opportunity, eager to reunite with the homeland they had missed dearly.
A Joyous Return
In March 2024, the two brothers and their families made the long-awaited journey back to Burundi. African Initiatives for Relief & Development facilitated their movement. The return was filled with mixed emotions: joy, nostalgia, and a sense of apprehension about what awaited them. Upon arrival, they were met with scenes of a country in recovery, yet vibrant with the promise of a peaceful future.
Reintegrating into their home village has been a process of rebuilding not just homes but also livelihoods. Kagina and Mbanishaka are dedicated to reviving their family farm, leveraging new skills they acquired during their years in Tanzania. Their children, who had spent formative years in exile, are now adjusting to life in Burundi, attending local schools, and reconnecting with their cultural roots.
A New Beginning
For both brothers, returning to Burundi is more than just coming back to a physical place; it is about reclaiming their identity and rebuilding their future. They are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, having endured displacement and uncertainty yet emerging with hope and determination.
Their story is one of countless others, reflecting the broader narrative of Burundi’s path to peace and recovery. As the country continues to heal, the return of its sons and daughters like Kagina and Mbanishaka signifies a step toward a brighter, more stable future.
In their home, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of Burundi, they are both optimistic. They understand the challenges ahead but are confident in their ability to overcome them. Together, with their families, they are ready to start anew, contributing to the resurgence of their beloved country. As AIRD, we are glad to be part of this story.
