Success and failure of refugee local integration programmes in Zambia

The existence of refugees and asylum seekers in resettlement regions frequently imposes a range of economic, environmental, social, and political difficulties. Refugees compete with local citizens for limited resources, such as land, shelter, food, and medical care, which increases the demand for essential services, including healthcare, education, and employment. Their locations in remote resettlement areas, outside national and local government development planning structures, limit the availability of infrastructure and basic services. The study sought to assess the successes and failures of Zambia's local integration programmes, with a focus on the Meheba Resettlement Area. Using a qualitative research approach, the study employed semi-structured interviews with former refugees, host community members, and stakeholders, alongside document reviews. Findings revealed notable achievements, including providing agricultural resources and basic services, but also highlighted persistent gaps in legal documentation, social cohesion, and equitable resource distribution. The study concluded that while the programme has potential, addressing these barriers is crucial for achieving its objectives. The study recommended streamlining legal processes, fostering community cohesion, improving infrastructure, and enhancing access to economic opportunities to bolster integration efforts and ensure sustainable development.

Grantor dc:publisher

Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• Mwala, Namakau

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Rabie, Babette

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

https://scholar.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.1/136124

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholar.sun.ac.za:10019.1/136124