UN Says 53 Congolese Refugees Have Died in Burundi Amid Surge in Influx

At least 53 refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo have died in Burundi, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) said on Friday, underscoring the growing humanitarian crisis in the region.

The refugees were among tens of thousands who fled escalating fighting in eastern DRC, particularly around the town of Uvira, after clashes between government forces and armed groups intensified in recent months. The U.N. said 25 deaths were confirmed to be caused by a cholera outbreak, while six others succumbed to anaemia and complications related to malnutrition. The causes of the remaining deaths are under investigation as agencies work with Burundi’s health ministry and humanitarian partners.

More than 100,000 Congolese refugees have crossed into Burundi since December as insecurity has pushed civilians to seek safety across the border. Refugees and aid workers described dire conditions in overcrowded camps, where limited access to clean water, food, shelter, and health services has heightened vulnerability, especially among children and women.

The U.N. and international partners are mobilising efforts to respond to mounting needs, but officials say resources are strained as displacement grows. Local authorities have also called for increased humanitarian support to address the urgent welfare needs of the newly arrived populations.

SOURCE: Reuters