UNICEF Burundi Humanitarian Situation Report No. 20, 31 May 2026

Countries: Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, United Republic of Tanzania Source: UN Children’s Fund Please refer to the attached file. Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs In May 2026, Burundi continued to face a complex humanitarian situation characterized by significant population movements and regional health risks. Since 23 April, five organized convoys have facilitated the voluntary return of 5, 461 Congolese refugees from Busuma refugee site to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), reducing the site’s population to 61, 239 refugees. Biometric registration is ongoing and has reached approximately 80% of the target population, improving the accuracy of planning and assistance. Meanwhile, the repatriation of Burundian refugees from Tanzania continues at scale, with 82, 136 individuals returned since January 2026 out of a planned 104, 600 for 2026. Returns have accelerated in the last week of May, with particularly large convoys observed, suggesting an intensification of movements. The closure of Nduta camp has been completed, while Nyarugusu camp is expected to close by end-June, which will likely sustain pressure on reception capacities and basic services in return areas. At regional level, the Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC and Uganda places Burundi among high-risk countries (category 1B), requiring heightened preparedness and vigilance. UNICEF has supported the Government in the finalization and validation of the national Ebola preparedness and response plan (app. $17 M) and continues to work in close coordination with national authorities and partners to strengthen readiness, including planning, surveillance, and response capacities. UNICEF is working in close coordination with the Government and partners to strengthen readiness, including planning, surveillance, and response capacities. These dynamics continue to exacerbate pre-existing vulnerabilities, with food insecurity and acute malnutrition remaining key humanitarian concerns. Situation in Numbers 632, 989 children in need of humanitarian assistance (Multicounty Great lakes HAC 2026-Burundi) 1, 285, 828 people in need (Multicounty Great lakes HAC 2026-Burundi) ≈102, 000 Internally displaced people (RBESA, UNHCR, May2026) ≈85, 329 people currently displaced by the conflict in Eastern DRC (UNHCR CORE May 2026) 82, 136 Burundian returnees from Tanzania 2026(UNHCR)

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