Attachments
Situation Update
• 66,445 people have crossed from DRC into Burundi since the beginning of 2025, fleeing the ongoing armed conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Out of those, more than 55,000 (85%) arrived after 14 February 2025. There are about 128,000 refugees and asylum seekers from DRC in Burundi.
• The situation remains very fluid, and as fighting continues in South Kivu, people continue to cross into Burundi. After a spike in new arrivals from 14 -16 February, the number of new arrivals has reduced to a flow of approximately 200-300 per day. People continue to enter primarily from informal entry points in Cibitoke Province - including via the Rusizi River. The latest reports also indicate some people are crossing further south by Rumonge (numbers are unconfirmed).
• In Cibitoke Province, most arrivals stay in Rugombo commune, where 47,457 people are hosted in the stadium; additionally, 6,166 refugees are hosted in Cibitoke site. Efforts are underway by the Government and UNHCR to move people from Cibitoke Province to a site in Musenyi, an estimated 5,000- 6,000 people have been relocated so far to this site. It is expected that another site will be functional the week of 17 March in Bweru, Ruyigi Province and relocation to this site will then commence as well.
• 393 unaccompanied and separated children (UASC) and other highly vulnerable children have so far been identified by UNICEF partners among the new arrivals. Given the intensity of the conflict in DRC and its casualties on civilians, it is expected - yet to be assessed - that a significant number of children are victims of grave violations.
• Reports of a cholera outbreak in Uvira, with 291 reported cases over the past week, raise concerns given the proximity to Burundi. A first case of cholera has been reported and confirmed at MSF clinic in Rugombo Stadium and referred to Cibitoke Cholera Treatment Centre.
• UNICEF assessment missions are planned for Musenyi and Bweru the week of 17 – 21 March. Findings will be shared in subsequent reports.
• UNHCR are leading the overall response; while UNICEF is co-lead of the Education, Health and Nutrition, and WASH sectors and the Child Protection sub-sector under the response coordination structure.