Refugees Integration and National Security Risks in Tanzania: A Case of Katumba Old Settlement

Abstract

Tanzania integrated 162,156 refugees in 2010, but integration risks to national security have not been given sufficient attention. This paper examines the national security risks of integrating refugees. The study adopted a case study design mixing both qualitative and quantitative methods. It drew data from 31 key informants and a sample of 397 integrated refugees and native Tanzanians in Katumba Old Settlement. The study found that integrated refugees engage in criminal activities that pose significant national security risks to both Tanzania and their country of origin. Such activities include illegal possession and proliferation of firearms and military weapons and supporting conflicts in their country of origin. It concludes that such activities are likely to trigger diplomatic tensions and increase the costs of countering armed crime and extreme violence in the country. The study recommends a re-evaluation of the refugee integration strategy. This may include re-evaluating the current approach to refugee integration, improving security models and resettlement plans and implementing cultural integration strategies.