More than 50 Congolese refugees have died in Burundi after fleeing renewed fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the United Nations said Friday.
The deaths underline a quiet humanitarian tragedy unfolding along the border, where fragile camps strain under the weight of desperation.
The UN Refugee Agency said 53 deaths were recorded, including 25 caused by a cholera outbreak sweeping overcrowded refugee settlements.
Six others died from anaemia and complications linked to malnutrition, exposing the severe shortages stalking families who escaped with nothing.
The agency said it is working with Burundi’s health ministry and aid partners to investigate the remaining deaths.
More than 100,000 Congolese have crossed into Burundi since early December, after rebels seized the strategic town of Uvira.
Jean Jacques Purusi, governor of South Kivu province, called the situation “misery” and a crisis forgotten by the international community.
Congo’s social affairs ministry said it has launched a humanitarian mission, delivering food, medicines and essential non-food supplies.
Burundi’s refugee protection office did not respond to requests for comment as aid agencies warned the emergency is deepening.
