Congolese refugees fleeing escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are facing dire conditions in Burundi, exacerbated by severe aid shortages and systemic neglect. Since January 2025, over 70,000 individuals—predominantly women and children—have crossed into Burundi, marking the largest influx in decades.
Upon arrival, refugees encounter overcrowded and unsanitary conditions in makeshift shelters such as transit camps, schools, churches, and sports stadiums. The Musenyi site, for instance, is housing more than double its intended capacity, with families living in sheds without mattresses, exposed to moisture and pests. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reports that the lack of hygiene and overcrowding are heightening the risk of diseases like measles and malaria.
The humanitarian response is critically underfunded. The World Food Programme (WFP) has been forced to reduce food rations for existing refugees from 75% to 50% of the full entitlement due to limited resources. With funding only sufficient to support 120,000 refugees through June 2025, there is a real risk that food assistance may be suspended as early as July.
The situation is further complicated by allegations of aid mismanagement. In Musenyi, refugees have expressed outrage over the embezzlement of humanitarian aid, with reports of food supplies being diverted without explanation. Local authorities and UNHCR officials have intervened, but mistrust remains high among the refugee community.
Despite these challenges, international organizations are mobilizing support. The European Union has allocated €200,000 in emergency humanitarian aid, and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) has launched an emergency response to provide health and protection support, cash assistance, and essential items to 3,000 refugees.
The plight of Congolese refugees in Burundi underscores the urgent need for increased international support and transparent aid distribution to address the escalating humanitarian crisis.
