Alert note: Flooding in Burundi

International Aid Services (IAS) has submitted an alert due to flooding in Burundi.

The nature of the crisis in Burundi is primarily a result of climate change disasters, particularly heavy rains leading to floods, landslides, and rising water levels in Lake Tanganyika and the bursting of Rusizi and Kajeke rivers. The impact of this crisis on human life are severe. Families have lost their homes, schools, and health clinics due to flooding and landslides. Displaced people are facing challenges in accessing basic necessities like clean water, food, and medical care. This might lead to health issues such as diarrhoea, malnutrition, and the spread of diseases like malaria. Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women are particularly at risk.The government of Burundi declared a state of emergency on April 17and is seeking assistance to mitigate the crisis and save human life.

More than 98,000 people have been affected since January 2024 residing in flood-prone areas, in particular those living at Mutimbuzi commune of the Bujumbura Rural province. Since April 2024 28.000 Vulnerable groups include children, the elderly, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and people with disabilities, who are often disproportionately affected by disasters.

Urgent emergency needs include food, clean water, shelter, hygiene kits, and medical assistance. Protection needs include ensuring the safety and security of vulnerable populations, preventing exploitation, and addressing gender-based violence. There is a critical need for rapid response and coordination to address these urgent needs and protect vulnerable groups from further harm.