Khartoum State and UNHCR Agree on Addressing Refugee Issues in the State

Omdurman –Sudanhorizon

The UNHCR Representative in Sudan, Christine Hamburger, concluded a two-day visit to Khartoum State. During this visit, she reached an agreement with Khartoum State Governor Ahmed Osman Hamza on comprehensive measures to address the situation of refugees in the state.

According to a press release issued by the state’s media office, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and Khartoum State aligned their views on approaches to resolving refugee-related challenges in the region.

The press release further emphasized that any refugee participating in combat against the state would lose their refugee status and be dealt with under the country’s national laws.

Khartoum State Governor, Ahmed Osman Hamza, stated:

“We hope the international delegate’s visit will yield productive solutions to refugee issues, particularly adherence to asylum laws and the resettlement of refugees in areas agreed upon by the UNHCR, the Commissioner for Refugees, and the state.”

The governor highlighted the complexity of some cases, pointing out that:

Some foreign nationals claim to have lived most of their lives in Sudan.

Others attempt to register as refugees without clear eligibility.

He stressed that specific laws govern both Sudanese nationality and refugee status.

From her side, Christine Hamburger, the UNHCR Representative in Sudan, acknowledged the challenges during her visit to Omdurman and Karari. She commended the support and hospitality refugees and displaced persons have received from the Khartoum State Government and the host community.

She stated:

“I will work with the Governor of Khartoum to improve the conditions of refugees and regulate their status in accordance with the laws.”