MIDMAR, RNP, UNHCR partner to test national preparedness on refugee influx

The Ministry of Disaster Management and Refugees Affairs, in partnership with Rwanda National Police and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees developed and organized an exercise to test institutional capabilities to handle and respond to mass movement of population and refugees influx.

The three entities are set to launch a three-day command post exercise from January 14 and individuals from various agencies, are to be tested and improve their capabilities and give them more skills and knowledge in handling such mass migration, in case it happens.

The exercise will attract participants from various respondents owing to the fact that crises and disasters require multi-sectoral approach.

The exercise codenamed “TWITEGURIRE HAMWE,” the first of its kind, to be held at the National Police College and will also be attended by officials from others other institutions.

“This Exercise aims at improving the national capabilities and interoperability of key stakeholders during a humanitarian crisis,” said Chief Supt. Celestin Twahirwa, Police Spokesperson.

“It is a joint effort to plan and implement the national contingency plan for mass movement and population influx and to enhance capacities in responding to mass refugee arrivals,” he added.

Other objectives of the joint exercise play is to enhance the readiness, cooperation and synergy of humanitarian actors, test and practice the stakeholders’ networking and sharing of information, experiences and technical expertise nationally

Currently, Rwanda is home to over 73,000 refugees including those from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, hosted in five camps in the in different districts across the country.

The RNP has also been working with MIDMAR, and Immigration services in responding during emergencies related to refugees matters and ensuring smooth reception of refugees and ensuring their security.

But this exercise-play is meant to enhance these services and give more skills to individuals on how mass influx can be handled.

By the end of the exercise, it is believed that a joint roadmap, technical skills and knowledge will be obtained to put the nation at the quick responsive and forefront in cases of mass migration.

RNP 

UM– USEKE.RW