Thousands of Congolese refugees residing at the Musenyi site in Burundi's southern Burunga province staged a peaceful demonstration on Monday, June 15, 2026. The refugees, seeking repatriation, organized the protest amidst concerns over their living conditions and the desire to return to the République démocratique du Congo (RDC). This significant demonstration aimed to draw international attention to their plight and their urgent calls for assistance.
Protest Demands and Slogans
The refugees are demanding their voluntary repatriation to the Democratic Republic of Congo (RDC), citing harsh living conditions in Burundi and a desire to return home. Their protests highlight the ongoing challenges faced by those displaced by conflict, emphasizing the severe impact on their daily lives and future prospects. The influx of Congolese refugees into Burundi is attributed to the intensification of conflict in eastern RDC, particularly in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, which has driven many to seek refuge across the border. These regions have been plagued by persistent insecurity, forcing countless families to abandon their homes and livelihoods in search of safety. The refugees' collective voice shows a deep yearning for stability and the opportunity to rebuild their lives in their country of origin.
To address the situation, a key tripartite meeting between representatives from the RDC, Burundi, and the Haut-Commissariat des Nations Unies pour les Réfugiés (HCR) was held in Kinshasa from June 2 to 4, 2026. This high-level meeting aimed to evaluate the conditions necessary for the safe and voluntary repatriation of these refugees, showing the diplomatic efforts underway to resolve their displacement. Discussions focused on logistical arrangements, security guarantees, and humanitarian support to ensure a dignified return for those opting for repatriation.
Overcrowding and Living Conditions
The protest at Musenyi aims to highlight the difficult living conditions prevailing within the camp, according to organizers. Refugees report insufficient food rations, inadequate access to medical care, and a lack of proper shelter as key challenges. The Musenyi site, located in Burundi, was established in 2024 to accommodate displaced populations. Its estimated capacity was set at 10,000 individuals, a figure that now shows capacity concerns given the current living conditions described by the protesters. The severe overcrowding places immense strain on already limited resources, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis within the camp. The lack of basic necessities contributes to widespread suffering and health risks among the refugee population.
Existing Repatriation Programs
A repatriation program is currently underway at the Busuma site in the province of Buhumuza, located in eastern Burundi. This voluntary initiative for Congolese refugees officially commenced on April 23, 2026, marking a significant step in facilitating their return home. The program at Busuma serves as a model for organized and supported repatriation efforts. Under this program, approximately 1,000 refugees are repatriated each week from the Busuma site to the République démocratique du Congo (RDC). The ongoing operations at Busuma aim to address the displacement of Congolese individuals, providing an established pathway for those wishing to return to their country of origin. This structured approach offers hope to many who have been living in precarious conditions in refugee camps.
Refugee Voices and Appeals
The Musenyi site currently hosts nearly 22,000 Congolese refugees, which is more than double its initial capacity. This significant overpopulation contributes directly to the dire conditions and scarcity of resources. Mugisha, a refugee who arrived in Burundi in January 2025, stated that children have not studied for almost a year. Mugisha told reporters, "Nous avons lancé plusieurs appels, mais nous ne voyons pas de réponses concrètes." He further elaborated on the challenging conditions, saying, "Nous sommes confrontés à la faim. Beaucoup de familles passent des journées entières avec des repas insuffisants. Les enfants souffrent énormément. Depuis notre arrivée ici en janvier 2025, nos enfants n’étudient presque plus. Certains ont perdu plus d’une année scolaire et ne savent pas ce que leur avenir leur réserve." The lack of educational opportunities is a critical concern, threatening the future of an entire generation of displaced children.
Mugisha appealed for assistance, stating, "Nous demandons à notre gouvernement de nous rapatrier, comme cela se fait déjà à Busuma. Nous traversons exactement les mêmes difficultés que les réfugiés de ce site." He added, "Si nous avons décidé de manifester aujourd’hui, ce n’est pas pour créer des troubles. Nous voulons simplement que nos préoccupations soient entendues et prises en considération. Nous voulons rentrer chez nous, retrouver nos terres, nos familles et reconstruire nos vies dans notre pays." His words encapsulate the widespread sentiment among the Musenyi refugees, who seek the same opportunity for voluntary, safe, and dignified repatriation as their counterparts at Busuma. The demonstration serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of prolonged displacement and the urgent need for sustainable solutions.
