Eve Bazaïba Travels to Bujumbura to Assess Humanitarian Crisis Affecting 250,000

Bujumbura, January 9, 2026 - Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Eve Bazaïba, visited Bujumbura, Burundi, on Friday, January 9, to strengthen aid coordination and evaluate the humanitarian situation of at least 250,000 Congolese refugees who fled Uvira, South Kivu, after its fall to AFC-M23 rebels in November 2025. Humanitarian data indicates that over 101,000 displaced Congolese crossed into Burundi following Uvira’s capture, bringing the total number of Congolese refugees in the country to more than 250,000. Many of these refugees are from North and South Kivu provinces and live in precarious conditions, with approximately 30,000 children out of school, further exacerbating family vulnerabilities. During her visit, Eve Bazaïba met with Burundian authorities and UNHCR officials to improve the coordination of humanitarian assistance. Priority needs include food, clean water, medical care, and emergency shelter. The UNHCR has highlighted an alarming health situation, reporting 53 deaths, including 25 from cholera, and estimates that over US$33 million is required to respond adequately to the emergency. Minister Bazaïba reaffirmed the Congolese government’s commitment, including the systematic registration of refugees to prevent infiltration and ensure proper assistance.