Over a dozen years of civil war have had devastating effects on social, economic and political conditions in Burundi.  Since 1993, the conflict has claimed more than 300,000 lives and displaced over one million people.  The signing of the Arusha Peace and Reconciliation Accords in 2000, improvements in security in most provinces, the return of refugees and internally-displaced persons, the successful organization of democratic elections, and the recent cease fire announcement by the last remaining rebel group all contribute to a climate of optimism regarding Burundi’s future.  But despite this progress, the country continues to face numerous internal challenges which constitute serious threats to stability, peace and growth.  Almost 400,000 Burundian refugees have returned from Tanzania, with up to 100,000 more expected in the next year, severely straining existing infrastructure and fragile communities. 

How We Help

The IRC opened its Burundi office in 1996, initially focusing on emergency water, environmental health and programs for vulnerable children and youth, which included family reunification, psychosocial and medical assistance, and skills training for youth.  The IRC's programmatic priorities over the next two years include child and youth protection and development, prevention of and response to gender-based violence, and promotion of good governance, all of which are aimed at promoting the reintegration of refugees and supporting the country’s transition to lasting peace and stability.  The IRC has its main office in Bujumbura and field offices in Makamba, Muyinga and Ruyigi, the provinces which have the highest number of returning refugees.
 
The IRC in Burundi is:

• Helping Burundian refugees returning from Tanzanian camps to reintegrate into their communities of origin
• Providing training in marketable trades and life skills for young people
• Reunifying unaccompanied and separated children with their families and promoting their successful reintegration into society
• Supporting women’s and girls’ economic and social empowerment and improving services for survivors of gender based violence
• Promoting good governance and supporting the national decentralization process
• Improving people’s access to clean water through large scale water projects and promoting environmental health

Voices from the Field: Posts from Burundi on the IRC blog