UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

Published purpose

The Southern Africa region is vulnerable to natural disasters (floods and cyclones) and debilitating rates of HIV/AIDS infection. Key regional issues include the recent displacement of thousands of Zimbabweans within South Africa. The region has also experienced an increase in voluntary repatriation of Congolese and Rwandan refugees from Zambia; and an increase in forced return of refugees in Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo due to forced expulsions between the two governments. Funds provided to UNHCR's 2010 Southern Africa Appeal are allocated on the basis of need towards country-specific operations and regional programs. Depending on the specific operation, activities may include: providing basic assistance and essential services to vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers, including shelter, health and education; assisting in the integration and repatriation of refugees to their country of origin; providing protection services to vulnerable populations; and assisting national governments build effective national asylum systems that protect refugees and asylum seekers.