Rwanda today joined the global community in celebrating World Refugee Day 2025 under the theme “Solidarity with Refugees”, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the protection, inclusion, and empowerment of refugees.

The national celebration, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, brought together senior government officials, representatives of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), international development partners, humanitarian agencies, refugee representatives, and civil society organizations. Together, they honoured the strength, courage, and resilience of the more than 136,000 refugees and asylum seekers residing in Rwanda.

Delivering keynote remarks, Minister of Emergency Management, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, emphasized Rwanda’s long-standing dedication to refugee protection and its vision of transforming humanitarian response into sustainable development.

“World Refugee Day is a moment for reflection on our shared responsibility to protect refugees and a call to renew our commitment to improving their livelihoods in a safe and dignified manner,” said Minister Murasira.

He lauded Rwanda’s progressive refugee policies that grant access to national health and education systems, freedom of movement, the right to work, and expanding opportunities for higher education, employment, and financial inclusion.

“The discussions held today testify that where there is a will, there is a way. We must join our efforts to achieve Rwanda’s aspiration to sustainably graduate from humanitarian assistance at least 50% of refugee households hosted in the country by 2030,” he added.

In a direct message to refugees present at the event and across the country, the Minister assured continued support and protection:

“We will continue ensuring the protection of refugees and asylum seekers and providing livelihood support to boost your economic status while regional peace processes are underway.”

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of Rwanda’s Refugee Sustainable Graduation Strategy by the Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA). This strategy outlines a roadmap to transition refugee households from dependency on humanitarian aid to self-reliance through inclusive and durable solutions.

A high-level panel discussion titled “From Protection to Prosperity: Pathways to Sustainable Graduation of Refugees” enriched the day’s proceedings. 

The discussion focused on fostering refugee self-reliance through job creation, entrepreneurship, access to finance, and integration into national development frameworks. PS HABINSHUTI highlighted the critical role of coordinated efforts in unlocking the full potential of refugees and ensuring their dignified inclusion in society.

As the world marks World Refugee Day 2025, Rwanda stands out as a nation that not only opens its doors but keeps them open; providing a blueprint for solidarity and practical action.

UNHCR’s Representative Aissatou Ndiaye praised Rwanda’s inclusive policies and underscored the importance of continued innovation and investment in refugee livelihoods.

“Refugees in Rwanda have access to health and education services, freedom of movement, the right to work, and now, more pathways to tertiary education and financial inclusion,” she noted.

Rwanda’s celebration of #WRD2025 reflects its broader vision: graduating refugee households from humanitarian aid to sustainable self-reliance, and demonstrating that durable solutions are possible when political will and collective action come together.

As Minister Murasira powerfully stated, “Our journey must be driven by compassion, solidarity, and a shared responsibility to leave no one behind.”