Burundi is facing an unprecedented influx of migrants. Since the beginning of December, the escalation of violence in South Kivu (DRC), particularly around Uvira, has driven nearly 90,000 people to cross the Burundian border in just two weeks.

A fundraising appeal to address the most urgent needs

Faced with this utter destitution, eight United Nations agencies and their partners launched an emergency response plan on Wednesday, December 17. The goal is to mobilize $33.2 million to meet the basic needs of the 16,000 families who have recently arrived.

These funds will finance interventions until March 2024, covering critical sectors:

1. Food and healthcare.
2. Emergency accommodation .
3. Sanitation (access to water and latrines).

The four pillars of the humanitarian response

To manage this crisis, international organizations have defined clear priorities:

1. Protection: Ensure respect for the right to asylum and the principle of non-refoulement.
2. Basic needs: Combating unsanitary conditions caused by overpopulation.
3. Coordination: Optimize the mobilization of resources on the ground.
4. Infrastructure: Urgent development of the Bweru site.

The logistical challenge of Bweru

Designated by the Burundian authorities to relieve congestion in the border area, the Bweru site is already hosting 13,000 people. However, the area lacks everything: roads, water points, and shelters are woefully inadequate to accommodate such a large population.

The context: This crisis is exacerbating an already fragile situation. Before these events, Burundi — itself facing significant socio-economic difficulties — was already hosting 92,000 refugees and asylum seekers.