International Refugee Day 2026 Celebrated at Nkamira Transit Center

Rubavu District, Rwanda – 23 June 2026

The global community commemorates International Refugee Day to honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees worldwide. At Nkamira Transit Center, the official celebration of International Refugee Day 2026 took place on 23 June 2026, bringing together refugees, government leaders, humanitarian partners, and host communities.

Prison Fellowship Rwanda (PFR), in collaboration with UNHCR and other partners, actively contributed to both the official celebration and the week-long activities leading up to the event.

Official Celebration

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Vice Mayor of Rubavu District in charge of Social Affairs, alongside representatives from UNHCR and other humanitarian organizations.

Key highlights included:

• Opening remarks emphasizing protection, inclusion, and resilience
• Traditional and modern dance performances by refugees
• Award ceremonies recognizing outstanding participation and achievements
• Recognition of winners from Igisoro and playing card competitions organized by PFR
• Awards presented to top performers from the football match between refugee and host community youth

The celebration served as a platform to promote inclusion, celebrate talent, and strengthen social cohesion within the community.

Week-Long Engagement Activities

In the days preceding the celebration, PFR organized a series of activities aimed at engaging refugees, particularly youth, and promoting interaction with the host community.

Igisoro and Playing Cards Competitions (19 June 2026)

Competitions were held across three categories: youth, women, and older persons. Winners from each category were officially recognized during the main celebration.

Football Match for Social Cohesion (22 June 2026)

A friendly football match between refugee youth and host community youth was organized in partnership with UNHCR. The activity fostered teamwork, unity, and mutual understanding. The top three scorers were awarded during the official ceremony.

Promoting Unity and Inclusion

Through these initiatives, PFR and its partners reinforced the importance of social cohesion, inclusion, and empowerment. The celebration highlighted the positive contributions of refugees while creating opportunities for interaction, learning, and shared experiences.

PFR remains committed to supporting refugee communities through programs that promote dignity, resilience, and sustainable integration.