Congolese refugees in Burundi face dire conditions, deputy calls for government action
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A provincial deputy is calling on the Congolese government to improve the living conditions of Congolese refugees at the Busuma camp in Burundi.
- Refugees report inadequate food assistance, a lack of healthcare, precarious housing, and interrupted schooling for their children.
- Some refugees have protested, demanding repatriation to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A provincial deputy is urging the Congolese government to take action to improve the dire conditions faced by Congolese refugees at the Busuma camp in Burundi. Bisimwa Sinderi, a deputy from Uvira, highlighted the refugees' complaints, which include meager food aid, a near-total absence of healthcare, unstable shelters, and the disruption of education for their children.
These refugees are expressing their frustration and discontent, with some having recently demonstrated to demand their repatriation to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Sinderi emphasized the urgent need for concrete measures from the Congolese government to enhance the quality of life for these individuals who are in distress.
The situation at the Busuma camp underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Congolese refugees in neighboring countries, highlighting the need for both humanitarian assistance and political solutions to ensure their well-being and rights.
Originally published by Radio Okapi in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.