Durable solutions and life-saving assistance for displaced populations in Tanganyika 

The province of Tanganyika has been experiencing significant population displacement due to conflicts and violence. With the support of the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), IOM has provided crucial support to displaced populations, with a focus on facilitating access to durable solutions and delivering life-saving assistance.  

Here are the key achievements of this initiative: 

Durable Solutions for Displaced Populations

In Kalemie, the planned closure of five displacement sites (Cinquantenaire, Kalonda, Kalunga, Mukuku, and Kalenge) by the Tanganyika Provincial Government prompted the search for long-term solutions for the displaced population. Displaced households were given the choice of returning to their original villages if deemed safe, or relocating to new areas.  

Several participatory assessments, focus group discussions, key-informant interviews, and intention surveys were conducted to identify the displaced persons’ needs and preferences. To ensure informed decisions were made, "Go-and-see" visits were organized before relocation, allowing individuals to visit potential new villages and engage with local leaders. The process also included "Come and Tell" sessions, where those visiting new locations could share their experiences and insights with others in the displacement sites. Ultimately, the choice was left to the individuals, empowering them to decide based on their needs and aspirations. The departure from the sites was accompanied by cash transfer distributions for the transport of the displaced to the return/relocation villages and to begin the construction of their houses as well as subsistence for the first month. Further payments then allowed returnees/relocatees to finish the constructions. The project supported more than 18,500 people to leave the sites and build their houses in some fifteen villages. 

These achievements exemplify the strong partnership and commitment of IOM and ECHO to improve the lives of those affected by conflict and violence. Shelter assistance, in particular, played a crucial role in restoring the dignity of these households and providing a stable foundation for their future. The project in Tanganyika demonstrates that through empowerment, choice, and multi-sectoral support, lives can be transformed, offering a renewed sense of dignity and hope to those who need it most.  

Multi-Sectoral Life-Saving Assistance for Newly Displaced Populations

In Nyunzu, IOM supported five sites (Kilwa, Kabeya-Mikena, Kilunga, Majengo Mapya, and Mwempa) with management services to provide displaced populations an improved access to essential services and better living conditions. 

As part of these site management services, 28 IDP committees with 110 members, with 64% being females, were formed and actively involved in the daily activities of the sites. These committee members received training on their roles and responsibilities. The mobilization of IDP committees empowers displaced individuals, facilitates representation and communication, and ensures effective delivery of support and services, responsive to local needs and sustainable in the long term. They play a crucial role in fostering community resilience and recovery in the face of displacement. Furthermore, complaints and feedback mechanisms were established, including suggestion boxes, hotlines, and focal points. 

To ensure basic, safe, and dignified living conditions in sites, IOM supported the construction of site infrastructure. Shelter kits were distributed to enable the construction of emergency shelters, providing populations with a place to live. Additionally, emergency latrines, handwashing stations, and showers were constructed in all sites. These elements are vital components of humanitarian response efforts, protecting public health, ensuring human dignity, and contributing to the overall well-being and safety of displaced populations during crises. Moreover, water points were established in two sites to provide access to safe drinking water, support hygiene, and enhance sanitation practices.