Within the framework of the UMUSEKE program, human rights organizations, the Ligue Burundaise des droits de l’homme Iteka and King Umurundi Freedom, continue to monitor the humanitarian situation of Congolese refugees who have fled the crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Our organizations welcome the exchanges between UNHCR, its partners, and refugees at the Busuma site, particularly the meeting held on 14 April 2026, which led to a provisional voluntary repatriation program for approximately 700 refugees and helped prevent a strike that could have escalated.
However, concerns remain, particularly regarding reported cases of illegal payments demanded during individual return attempts.
Our organizations reiterate that all returns must be voluntary, dignified, safe, and properly organized, in accordance with the 1951 Geneva Convention ratified by Burundi.
In this official alert document, signed by Anschaire NIKOYAGIZE for Ligue Iteka and Vianney NIZIGIYIMANA for King Umurundi Freedom, our organizations call on all stakeholders to work together to ensure the protection of refugees’ rights and to promote sustainable solutions.