Refugees Informed on Convention Travel Documents Process
By Alice Sitima…..
On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, refugees attended an informative session on the process of obtaining Convention Travel Documents (CTDs) aimed at enhancing their security and wellbeing.
Hilda Kausiwa from the Department of Refugees explained the criteria for obtaining CTDs, which are issued to refugees needing travel for medical treatment, legal matters, education, or other essential reasons.
To apply, refugees must submit a detailed, signed request to authorities, along with an exit letter from the camp manager, proof of refugee status, two passport photos, police clearance, and supporting documents from the UNHCR.
Inspector Prince Matope, Immigration Coordinator for IOL, outlined his department’s role in verifying the refugee status of applicants in the database. If verified, the process takes up to 10 working days following a payment of K70,000. However, applications can be rejected on security grounds.
Dowa Police Officer In-Charge, Assistant Commissioner Almakio Daka, emphasized the importance of correctly using the CTDs, warning that misuse would not be tolerated. He also highlighted the police’s role in ensuring the safety of refugees and maintaining the integrity of the travel documents.
Daka added that regular monitoring will be conducted to prevent fraudulent activities.
Currently, 2,000 booklets are available for the 55,000 refugees in need of these documents.
