Buchumi Leonidass, a Burundian refugee who spent over a decade at Dzaleka Refugee Camp, has begun a new journey back to his home country. Speaking at Kamuzu International Airport before joining the 11th voluntary repatriation convoy to Burundi, Leonidass thanked the Government of Malawi and UNHCR for the protection and opportunities he received during his stay.
“Dzaleka became my second home, but it felt like my real one. I leave with gratitude and skills I’ll use to rebuild my life,” he said, referring to the tailoring training he completed while in Malawi.
Leonidass encouraged fellow refugees to consider voluntary return, noting that refugee status is not meant to last forever.
Yvi Chihana, Deputy Commissioner for Refugees, shared that by 24 July 2025, a total of 418 Burundians will have returned home through the voluntary repatriation program launched in 2023.
“This marks real progress toward long-term solutions. We are proud to support these brave individuals as they start anew,” Chihana said, praising both UNHCR and the Malawi government for enabling safe and dignified returns.
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