At least 55 individuals have died since January of the current year from consuming highly alcoholic beverages known as udusarabwayi, with 400 others in an alarming state of health, according to figures released by the organization for the fight against narcotics (Olucos). The severe health crisis shows the dangerous impact of these illicit drinks across the nation. Raphaël Ngendakumana, president and legal representative of Olucos, made the statement on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, noting the national concern over udusarabwayi consumption and the urgent need for intervention. The organization for the fight against narcotics (Olucos) declared these grim figures, emphasizing the widespread nature of the problem.
Ngendakumana stated, "Nous sommes en train de poursuivre les enquêtes pour d’autres communes" (We are continuing investigations for other communes), indicating ongoing efforts to fully ascertain the scope of the crisis. He noted that "Butanyerera reste jusqu’ici la province où la fabrication de ces boissons en plastique est plus présente" (Butanyerera remains the province where the production of these plastic-bottled drinks is most prevalent), pointing to a key manufacturing hub. Ngendakumana also expressed bewilderment, saying, "Il dit ne pas comprendre comment des gens s’adonnent à la prise de telles boissons du matin au soir au vu de l’autorité qui sait qu’elles sont super alcoolisées" (He says he does not understand how people consume such drinks from morning to night, given that authorities know they are super alcoholic). This sentiment reflects the frustration among officials regarding the persistent consumption despite known dangers. The problem of udusarabwayi consumption is indeed concerning on a national scale, affecting multiple provinces and communities.
Provincial Toll Revealed
In Bujumbura province, the consumption of these plastic-bottled drinks has led to 12 deaths since January 2026, with an additional 140 individuals reportedly in an unenviable state. These 140 others are in an alarming state of health, requiring urgent medical attention. The investigation in Bujumbura province encompassed only five communes, contributing to the overall figures and suggesting that the actual toll could be higher if more areas were surveyed.
Further provincial data indicates that in Burunga province, inquiries across four communes documented nine fatalities. These nine deaths highlight the perilous reach of udusarabwayi even in areas with limited investigation. Butanyerera province, identified as a primary production hub, reported 15 deaths and 130 people in critical condition as a result of consuming the illicit beverages. This makes Butanyerera province one of the hardest-hit regions in terms of fatalities and severe illnesses.
In Buhumuza province, eight individuals have died, and more than 70 are currently in an alarming state due to the highly alcoholic drinks. Gitega province has recorded 11 deaths, with 40 others experiencing serious health conditions linked to udusarabwayi consumption. These provincial tolls contribute to the rising national figures compiled by the organization for the fight against narcotics (Olucos), painting a grim picture of the public health emergency. The combined data from these provinces shows the urgent need for a full national response.
Manufacturing Hotspots Identified
Butanyerera province has been identified as the region with the highest concentration of plastic drink manufacturing, according to the organization for the fight against narcotics (Olucos). This includes a significant presence of facilities producing these plastic-bottled drinks. The province's role as a primary production hub for these illicit beverages has drawn particular attention from authorities investigating the widespread consumption of udusarabwayi. This geographical concentration is a key factor in understanding the distribution and availability of the dangerous drinks implicated in numerous deaths and illnesses across the country. Olucos officials have indicated that their investigations are ongoing, with a focus on tracking the origins and supply chains of udusarabwayi. The identification of Butanyerera province as a manufacturing hotspot is expected to inform future efforts to curb the production and sale of the highly alcoholic substances responsible for the current health crisis, which has led to at least 55 deaths and 400 critical cases nationwide.
Official Concerns and Calls to Action
The Prime Minister has announced a new measure aimed at regulating the production of the highly alcoholic beverages implicated in recent deaths and illnesses. This directive will require manufacturers to bottle these drinks in glass containers rather than plastic. The move comes as authorities grapple with the health crisis caused by the consumption of udusarabwayi, which has claimed over 55 lives and left hundreds critically ill. The government's decision to mandate glass bottling reflects an effort to control the quality and distribution of these beverages, which have been linked to significant public health concerns. Officials believe that transitioning from plastic to glass bottles could be a step towards better oversight of the manufacturing process and potentially mitigate some of the risks associated with the illicit drinks, thereby safeguarding public health. This measure represents a concrete step by the government to address the alarming situation.
