Overview
This first National Refugee Policy Implementation Plan responds to Zambia’s continued role as a host to refugees, asylum seekers and former refugees, noting 105,679 persons of concern in 2022. It reaffirms adherence to international refugee instruments and addresses gaps in reception, documentation, social services, livelihoods and inclusion. Guided by principles of human rights, inclusiveness, non-refoulement, partnership and accountability, the plan pursues six objectives: strengthen protection and rights; improve access to essential needs; enhance livelihood and self-reliance; promote co-existence with host communities; expand access to durable solutions; and reinforce coordination and refugee inclusion in national development. The annex provides a five-year results framework with activities and budget estimates in ZMW, including establishing modern reception centers, harmonizing civil registration and documentation, improving access to justice and health, modernizing settlements and WASH, expanding social protection, promoting agriculture and entrepreneurship, climate resilience actions, and supporting voluntary repatriation, resettlement and local integration. Implementation relies on government ministries, the Office of the Commissioner for Refugees, and partners such as UNHCR, with monitoring and evaluation systems and data integration into national statistics.