Botswana to Deport 41 DRC Refugees

Botswana has decided to deport the 41 refugees who fled Namibia three months ago back to the war-stricken Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This was confirmed by the Botswana’s Defence, Justice and Security Permanent Secretary, Augustine Makgonatsotlhe.

The group, 23 children and 18 adults, fled Namibia on 7 July 2009, saying they feared for their lives because of death threats from the Namibian government after they complained of unacceptable conditions at the Osire Refugee Camp, where they had been living.

Asked why the group will be deported, Makgonatsotlhe argued that they do not qualify for refugee status according to Botswana's requirements and this made them illegal immigrants.

To read the article titled, “Botswana to deport runaway refugees,” click here.