Burundi is struggling to cope as more than 80,000 people have fled escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) South Kivu province since early December, bringing the total number of displaced across the border to over 200,000, the United Nations reports.
Aid agencies say transit centres in Burundi are operating at nearly double capacity, leaving hundreds of families without adequate shelter, food, or medical care. “Since we left our village, we have been sleeping outside, getting soaked in the rain,” said Congolese refugee Maombe Sariue, who is pregnant and struggling for help.
Simplice Kpandji of UNHCR noted that while 17,000 people arrived in a single week, the total could reach 25,000 by week’s end. “The needs are growing, and our resources are insufficient,” he said.
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The surge follows a new offensive by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, which recently seized control of Uvira in South Kivu. Despite a US-mediated peace agreement signed earlier this month between the Congolese and Rwandan presidents, M23’s advance has intensified the humanitarian crisis.
Burundi has stationed troops in eastern Congo for years to stabilize the region, but the rebel incursion has overwhelmed local and international response capacities. The conflict, involving over 100 armed groups vying for control of mineral-rich eastern Congo, has displaced more than seven million people, according to UNHCR.
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Efforts to negotiate with M23 remain ongoing, but aid agencies warn that the humanitarian situation could worsen if hostilities continue.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
