Through a contribution of TZS 9.2 billion (EUR 3 million), the EU will support UNHCR’s efforts to deliver timely, lifesaving, and protection-sensitive assistance and services in health, WASH, shelter, and education, including specialized services to persons with specific needs fleeing violence from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
© European Union, 2025.
The European Union (EU) and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency have signed a new partnership agreement to continue providing protection and humanitarian assistance to Congolese refugees and asylum seekers residing in Nyarugusu Camp, as well as the new arrivals who are temporarily hosted at the Transit Centre in Kigoma Region, Tanzania.
Through a contribution of TZS 9.2 billion (EUR 3 million), the EU will support UNHCR’s efforts to deliver timely, lifesaving, and protection-sensitive assistance and services in health, WASH, shelter, and education, including specialized services to persons with specific needs fleeing violence from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
“The global increase in crises has led to an unprecedented number of refugees in urgent need of support around the world. That is why today I am proud to announce the signing of a 9.2 billion TZS (EUR 3 million), contract with UNHCR here in Tanzania. This crucial agreement will directly benefit refugees in Tanzania, ensuring their protection, enabling them to lead dignified lives, and supporting their access to livelihoods. As the European Union, we remain firmly committed to humanitarian values and international solidarity. We must continue working together to address these global challenges and uphold the rights and dignity of every individual seeking refuge says Ambassador Christine Grau, EU Ambassador to Tanzania and the East African Community.
In 2025, UNHCR, in collaboration with national and international partners, continues to support the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania in receiving new arrivals in the Kigoma Region. From January to June this year, over 3,000 refugees have been received in Kigoma. UNHCR and partners continue to provide services to 85,105 Congolese refugees residing in Nyarugusu Camp. These individuals are provided with immediate life-saving assistance, including safe shelter, food, health services, clean water and sanitation facilities, and other essential support.
Given the dire circumstances under which many refugees flee, often with only clothes on their backs and a few belongings, access to health, shelter, clean water, hygiene, and sanitation facilities is critical. These services not only reduce mortality and morbidity but also uphold the dignity, protection, and overall well-being of asylum seekers and refugees.
“Standing with Congolese refugees and asylum seekers in Tanzania is not just our responsibility – it is a reflection of our shared humanity. Through the steadfast support of partners like the EU, we are not only meeting urgent needs, but investing in dignity, resilience, and the foundations of lasting peace for families who deserve hope and a future,” says Zulqarnain Hussain Anjum, UNHCR Representative a.i. in Tanzania.
UNHCR requires an estimated USD 14 million (TZS 37.8 billion) to respond to the DRC emergency in Tanzania, including USD 5 million (TZS 13.5 billion) for preparedness, and appeals now more than ever for more humanitarian and international community support. As of 31 May 2025, Tanzania hosts over 230,000 refugees, mainly from Burundi and the DRC.
