Burundi is experiencing mounting pressure on health services as more than 100,000 refugees fleeing conflict in eastern DR Congo arrive, increasing humanitarian and healthcare needs across the country.
March 2026- Burundi is facing a worsening humanitarian situation as thousands of people fleeing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo continue to cross the border, increasing pressure on health services and infrastructure in communities hosting refugees.
Since late 2025, more than 100,000 people—most of them women and children—have arrived in Burundi after escaping armed conflict in South Kivu. Many are currently living in refugee camps and require urgent humanitarian assistance, including healthcare, food, shelter, safe water, sanitation services and protection.
The growing influx of refugees is occurring alongside several ongoing challenges within the country. Burundi continues to deal with food insecurity, climate-related displacement caused by floods and landslides, and outbreaks of diseases such as Cholera and Mpox. Health facilities in affected districts have reported an increase in patient consultations as they strive to provide care for both displaced populations and local communities.
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During a recent visit to the country, Mohamed Janabi met with national authorities and development partners to assess the evolving situation and strengthen support for Burundi’s health response.
At the Busuma refugee site, which hosts more than 75,000 refugees living in extremely difficult conditions, Dr Janabi observed firsthand the scale of humanitarian needs and ongoing efforts to deliver essential healthcare services to displaced families.
“Burundi’s solidarity in hosting people fleeing crisis across the border is remarkable,” said Dr Marie Roseline Darnycka Belizaire, Emergencies Director at the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa. “WHO is supporting national authorities to expand health services and strengthen preparedness efforts.”
“No family should be left without access to health care simply because they have been forced to flee their homes,” said Dr Janabi. “WHO remains committed to supporting Burundi to deliver lifesaving health services to refugees and host communities while strengthening preparedness for future health threats.”
