Dozens of Congolese Refugees Die in Burundi Amid Health Crisis

More than 50 refugees who fled escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have died after crossing into neighbouring Burundi, according to the United Nations Refugee Agency, as reported by Reuters. The deaths highlight worsening humanitarian conditions faced by displaced people fleeing renewed fighting near the border.

The UN agency said 53 deaths had been recorded so far. At least 25 refugees died from a cholera outbreak, while six others succumbed to anaemia and complications linked to severe malnutrition. Authorities are investigating the causes of the remaining deaths in coordination with Burundi’s health ministry.

Since early December, intensified clashes and the seizure of the town of Uvira by rebel forces have driven more than 100,000 Congolese into Burundi. Congolese officials described the situation as a neglected humanitarian crisis, while Burundi’s refugee authorities did not respond to requests for comment.