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Thousands of unaccompanied children descend on Burundi

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Burundi
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HI
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Following ongoing clashes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, more than 8,000 people have left South Kivu and are taking refuge in south-western Burundi. Humanity & Inclusion (which works under the operating name “Handicap International” in Burundi) is on the ground, assisting the most vulnerable, including thousands of unaccompanied children.

“65% of these refugees are children,” explains Patrick Kelders, Humanity & Inclusion’s Head of the Great Lakes projects in Africa. “Many of them arrived without their parents and are particularly at risk of violence or abandonment. We need funding to make sure they are better protected, and to supply a wider range of emergency assistance to those who need it.”

“Needs are acute with very limited access to drinking water, food, and sanitary facilities,” Patrick adds. “We’ll soon begin distributing emergency kits to 1,000 refugees. These kits contain mosquito nets, blankets, mattresses, soap, jerry cans, and water purification tablets."

Our work in Burundi

Present in Burundi since 1992, HI helps ensure people with disabilities have access to basic services and rehabilitation and are involved in their social and economic environments. Learn more about our work in Burundi.