Heavy rains, related to El Niño climatic patterns, and subsequent flooding in Burundi between September 1 and December 9 affected more than 45,000 people, including in the death of at least eight people and the displacement of nearly 8,000 people, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The floods primarily affected Bujumbura-Mairie, Bujumbura, Bururi, Cankuzo, Cibitoke, Gitega, Kayanza, Kirundo, Makamba, Muramvya, Mwaro, Rumonge, Rutana, and Ruyigi provinces, disrupting essential services and damaging civilian infrastructure, including churches, electrical structures, latrines, schools, and at least one bridge. The floods also damaged nearly 47,000 acres of agricultural fields and markets, impacting access to food and livelihood opportunities. Heavy rains are likely to persist through early 2024, potentially necessitating additional humanitarian intervention to protect lives and assist with recovery, according to the UN World Food Program (WFP). Affected individuals are in urgent need of emergency food assistance, relief items, shelter supplies, and WASH support, according to assessments by the Government of Burundi (GoB) and IOM.
On December 20, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Keith Gilges issued a declaration of humanitarian need due to the effects of flooding in Burundi. In response, USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID/BHA) is providing $100,000 for emergency relief items.
