Thousands of refugees are arriving in Burundi in critical condition from DRC, warns IRC

Bujumbura, Burundi, December 12, 2025 - The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is raising the alarm as thousands of people fleeing escalating clashes in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have crossed into Burundi over recent days, overwhelming reception capacity at border points and temporary sites. Since 5 December, more than 50,000 Congolese refugees have arrived through Cibitoke and Bukinanyana provinces.

Amadou Ali, Country Director for the IRC in Burundi, said:

"People arriving at Kansega have fled terrifying violence only to face life-threatening conditions at the border. What our teams have seen at the Kansega camp is deeply alarming. Despite the efforts of the Burundian Government and humanitarian partners, families are sleeping under tarpaulins, without food, safe drinking water or blankets. There are no latrines, almost no medicines, and no water and sanitation infrastructure, leaving already-vulnerable people, especially children, at grave risk of disease. The situation requires urgent, scaled-up support."

The IRC participated in a joint multisectorial assessment coordinated by OCHA, and on Wednesday, November 11, a "Go and see" visit was held together with partners UNHCR and ECHO. In response, the IRC launched the distribution of 1,500 food kits on 11 December to support newly arrived families. The IRC also plans to establish a community protection centre in the coming days to help identify and support people with specific needs, including unaccompanied children, survivors of violence, and at-risk women.

The IRC urges the international community to scale up funding and support immediately to ensure refugees can access safety and basic services, and to reinforce the ongoing efforts of the Burundian Government and humanitarian partners.