Desperate Escape: DR Congo Refugees Brave Waters for Safety in Burundi

The influx of refugees escaping turmoil in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to Burundi is surging, straining aid agencies battling dwindling resources. “We’re at our breaking point,” stated Ayaki Ito from UNHCR. Over 71,000 individuals have fled since January, with living conditions in Musenyi refugee site becoming dire. Designed for 3,000, it currently accommodates 16,000. Funding shortages have severely impacted support essentials, while the onset of the rainy season raises public health concerns. Many refugees oscillate between the two nations amidst persistent violence.