Bujumbura, Burundi, February 25, 2025 — As thousands of Congolese refugees flee ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is launching this week an emergency response in Burundi to support those in urgent need. The IRC will provide health and protection support, cash assistance and deliver basic items to 3,000 refugees, ensuring access to essential supplies, especially for children and women. These include kitchen utensils, soap, blankets, clothes, dignity kits, ointments and towels.
Since February, over 40,000 refugees have arrived in Burundi, seeking safety from the escalating conflict in eastern DRC. With transit centres exceeding capacity and humanitarian needs surging, the IRC will provide emergency protection, livelihoods support, and health assistance.
Amadou Ali, IRC Country Director in Burundi, said,
"The situation in the transit centres is extremely concerning. Congolese families have arrived with nothing, and the centres are overcrowded, hosting people of all ages and backgrounds, including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
"The most pressing needs right now are food, clean water, medical care, and essential items like mats, sheets, and buckets. The IRC is working alongside partners to respond to these urgent needs and ensure that refugees receive the support they need."