Congolese refugees in Burundi's Busuma camp are requesting to return to the Democratic Republic of Congo, citing a lack of tents and food within the camp. This desire for repatriation comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding their safe return to their home country, the DRC. The refugees in the camp are actively asking to return, driven by the challenging conditions they face. A tripartite meeting in Kinshasa, involving the UNHCR, Burundi, and the DRC, authorized returns only to secure zones, showing the commitment to ensuring the safety of those repatriating. During this key meeting, the Burundian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Edouard Bizimana, stated, "Personne ne peut s’engager à envoyer des gens dans des zones où il y a encore des affrontements" (No one can commit to sending people to areas where there are still clashes), noting the cautious approach to repatriation.
Precarious Living Conditions
Refugees in the Busuma camp allege that ONAPRA, the organization responsible for guarding the facility, does not want them to return to the Democratic Republic of Congo. These claims add to the complex situation within the camp. A refugee stated, "Vaux mieux mourir par balles au lieu de mourir de faim et de froid ici, devant nos enfants," translating to "It is better to die by bullets than to die of hunger and cold here, in front of our children." This poignant statement reflects the desperation felt by many residents. The funding appeal to support the camp's operations was launched in December 2025, indicating the long-term nature of the humanitarian effort required. Camp residents also receive a few grams of salt monthly as part of the provisions, a stark reminder of the basic level of aid provided.
Official Stance on Repatriation
The Burundian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Edouard Bizimana, recently visited the Busuma camp to assess the situation firsthand and engage with the refugees. During his visit, Mr. Bizimana called on refugees to be patient, emphasizing that their security is critical and that their well-being is a top priority for the authorities. He stated that the government of Burundi is actively working with its partners, the Congolese government, and the UNHCR to address the situation comprehensively and find lasting solutions. Despite ongoing discussions and the cautious approach, repatriation efforts began in April, marking a significant step in the process. Convoys of approximately 1,000 people are currently organized weekly to facilitate returns, demonstrating a tangible effort to move refugees back to the DRC.
Humanitarian Aid and Funding Gaps
A group of African diplomats recently delivered material assistance valued at 50 million BIF to the Busuma camp, providing much-needed support to the residents. Despite such contributions from various partners, the overall needs for assisting refugees are estimated at 33.2 million US dollars, a substantial sum required for full humanitarian operations. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has reported that it has only managed to mobilize 30% of the required funds to meet these extensive needs, indicating a significant funding gap for humanitarian operations. This shortfall poses a considerable challenge to providing adequate support and improving living conditions for the refugees.
Refugee Voices and Hopes
Refugees describe their living conditions in Busuma camp as "very precarious" and "like cattle," noting the severe challenges they face daily. They consistently report a critical lack of tents and food, which are basic necessities for survival. Each refugee currently receives monthly financial assistance of 13,000 BIF, alongside 1kg of flour per month, in addition to the few grams of salt. These provisions are intended to support their needs, but the refugees' statements suggest they are insufficient given the overall conditions. Despite these provisions and the difficulties, nearly 13,000 people have already been repatriated to the Democratic Republic of Congo, showing the strong desire among refugees to return home. The current weekly convoy capacity, which facilitates these returns, represents the maximum number of individuals that can be transported at this time, limiting the pace of repatriation efforts.