Emergency Alert in DRC :
Since early 2025, escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly involving the M23 rebel group, has triggered a massive displacement crisis. Burundi is now facing an unprecedented influx of Congolese refugees, with over 62,000 individuals registered as of late February. The majority are arriving through Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces, with additional crossings at Gatumba near Bujumbura.
Here’s a professionally formulated Humanitarian Alert regarding the surge in Congolese refugee arrivals in Burundi:
🚨 Humanitarian Alert: Sharp Increase in Congolese Refugees in Burundi
📍 Location: Western Border Provinces – Cibitoke, Bubanza, Bujumbura
📅 Date: August 2025
⚠️ Situation Overview
Since early 2025, escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly involving the M23 rebel group, has triggered a massive displacement crisis. Burundi is now facing an unprecedented influx of Congolese refugees, with over 62,000 individuals registered as of late February. The majority are arriving through Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces, with additional crossings at Gatumba near Bujumbura.
👥 Demographics
- 60% are children, many of whom are unaccompanied or separated from their families.
- Recent arrivals include hundreds of Congolese police and military personnel seeking asylum.
- Refugees report fleeing without belongings, facing severe trauma, exhaustion, and lack of shelter.
🏕️ Reception Challenges
- Existing transit sites like Cishemere and Gihanga are overcrowded, prompting the creation of makeshift camps in schools and public spaces.
- The Burundian government has begun relocating refugees to Musenyi site in Rutana Province to improve coordination.
🆘 Urgent Needs
- Shelter, food, clean water, and sanitation
- Psychosocial support, especially for children and elderly
- Protection services for vulnerable groups
- Strengthened coordination among humanitarian actors
🛑 Call to Action
HHA urges all partners—UN agencies, NGOs, civil society, and donors—to mobilize emergency resources and reinforce multi-sectoral response efforts. Coordination with ONPRA and UNHCR is essential to ensure dignified reception, protection, and care for displaced populations.
