Conflict between the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group has triggered a massive refugee crisis, sending 63,000 people fleeing into neighboring Burundi, according to the United Nations.
Approximately 45,000 of these refugees are currently sheltering in an overcrowded open-air stadium in Rugombo, near the Congolese border.
Conditions inside the stadium are described as “extremely harsh,” with inadequate sanitation facilities.
Reports indicate only 10 to 15 latrine stalls are available for tens of thousands of people. Many families are forced to sleep in open fields surrounding the stadium due to the lack of space.
The UN reports that the number of refugees continues to rise, creating a “race against time” to provide essential aid.
The influx includes a significant number of unaccompanied children, separated from their families amidst the chaos.
Logistical challenges are hindering efforts to relocate refugees to the Musenyi refugee site, which has a capacity of 10,000 and is already 60% full.
The UN has issued an emergency appeal for $40.4 million to support the potential influx of 258,000 refugees into Burundi, Tanzania, and Zambia.
