The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has launched an urgent appeal for $40.4 million to address the escalating humanitarian crisis triggered by the ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Since early February, over 40,000 Congolese nationals have fled to Burundi, with most of the refugees being women and children seeking international protection.
Brigitte Mukanga-Eno, UNHCR’s representative in Burundi, described the alarming situation at a press briefing in Geneva. She stated that the surge of refugees includes over 9,000 arrivals in just one day, crossing dangerous borders to escape the conflict.
Many refugees have risked perilous journeys, using makeshift boats to cross the Rusizi River, hoping for safety in neighboring Burundi. Most come from regions like Goma, where violence has displaced them multiple times in the past.
“Many refugees are arriving after being displaced several times due to violence,” said Mukanga-Eno. “They are now facing even greater risks.”
A growing concern is the rising number of unaccompanied minors, many of whom were separated from their families during their treacherous journey to safety.
Despite the critical needs, Burundi’s government has granted immediate refugee status, allowing those fleeing violence to access essential protection and humanitarian aid.
However, urgent requirements remain, including shelter, food, sanitation, and medical care. Measles cases have also been reported, worsened by overcrowded conditions in refugee camps.
UNHCR is distributing supplies and organizing relocations to more secure sites, like Musenyi, which can house up to 10,000 refugees. The agency’s appeal also includes provisions for neighboring countries, anticipating an influx of up to 258,000 refugees in total.
Mukanga-Eno warned, “Without immediate funding, the situation will only worsen.”