Refugee Agency confirmed on Jan. 10 that 53 Congolese refugees who fled renewed fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have died in neighbouring Burundi since the flows began in early December. Humanitarian conditions at reception sites in eastern Burundi have deteriorated sharply. AI-generated illustrationKinshasa has dispatched a humanitarian mission to assist its nationals in Burundi, delivering food, medicines and non-food items, and coordinating with international partners. A spokesperson for Burundi’s National Office of Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons did not respond to calls or a texted request for comment. The crisis highlights brittle regional capacities to absorb large mixed movements and the international community’s obligations to protect people fleeing violence.

Source: The Hindu January 11, 2026 12:11 UTC