Voluntary repatriation of displaced persons at Catholic Mission site in Duékoué begins

(Abidjan/Geneva/New York, 17 November 2011) – Humanitarian actors in Cote d’Ivoire are now in the process of facilitating the return of displaced persons living at the Catholic Mission camp in Duekoue to their zones of origin in the Western part of the country. Thousands of people have sought refuge in the Mission premises following the post-electoral crisis that rocked the country.

The Ivorian Government after consultation with humanitarian actors has taken the decision to encourage the return of displaced persons to their neighbourhoods in Decode of. Between 16 and 22 November, three convoys of some 1308 persons (316 families) are scheduled to leave the IDP camp for their respective villages. Additional assisted repatriation of IDPs is envisaged in the near future.

“The return of displaced persons to their habitual neighbourhoods in Duékoué confirms the gradual return of confidence among communities » declared the Humanitarian Coordinator in Cote d’Ivoire, Mr Ndolamb Ngokwey. « For this return to remain sustainable, humanitarian actors, traditional and religious authorities as well as the Government should redouble their efforts in providing assistance packages and guarantee the safety of lives and property » he added.

This action of humanitarian actor complements Government’s efforts whose prime responsibility it remains to guarantee assistance and protection for displaced persons.

In conformity with regulations and principles of law governing repatriation, these returns should be voluntary and pursued while preserving the dignity and respect of the people

As at 20 October, the number of internally displaced persons living on 35 sites stood close to 17,000 persons. Nearly 170,000 internally displaced persons continue to live in host families and communities. The majority of the displaced remain in the Western part of the country.