Thousands of Congolese refugees have poured across the border to the tiny landlocked nation of Burundi, fleeing violence back home.
AF-100, Africa Chief:
As of May 2025, Burundi is experiencing its largest refugee influx in decades, with over 71,000 Congolese fleeing intensified conflict in eastern DRC since January . This surge, primarily comprising women and children, has overwhelmed Burundi’s limited infrastructure, leading to dire conditions in overcrowded sites like the Rugombo stadium and the Musenyi camp.
Stated Reason: The official narrative attributes the displacement to escalating violence between the M23 rebel group and Congolese government forces in North and South Kivu provinces.
Real Reason: The conflict is deeply rooted in a struggle for control over eastern Congo’s vast mineral resources. The M23’s resurgence, reportedly backed by Rwanda—a claim Kigali denies—is part of a broader regional contest for economic dominance . Burundi’s involvement, initially aimed at countering Burundian rebels, has evolved into direct engagement against M23, indicating a shift towards securing its own strategic interests in the region.
Consequence: The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by underfunded aid operations; the UNHCR has issued an emergency appeal for $76.5 million to support the refugees . Burundi’s infrastructure is strained, with inadequate shelter, sanitation, and medical services leading to outbreaks of diseases like measles and malaria . The influx risks destabilizing Burundi further and underscores the need for a coordinated regional response to address both the humanitarian and underlying geopolitical challenges.
“They sowed death for the profit of silence; they made forests scream with metal hunger.”
— Sony Labou Tansi, Congo-Brazzaville
AF-100, Africa Chief
III’ Corporate