Detainees held in several prisons across Burundi are raising alarm over a rapidly deteriorating food situation. For several days, and in some cases weeks, they report not receiving sufficient food, exposing them to extreme hunger.
Testimonies come in particular from prisons in Ngozi, Muramvya, Gitega, Mpimba (Bujumbura) and Murembwe (Rumonge). According to these inmates, it has been nearly two weeks, since March 11, 2026, that they have no longer received flour, a staple food.
This food shortage is causing severe suffering among detainees. The situation is especially concerning as many are imprisoned far from their families, leaving them without any external support during this difficult time.
Detainees also denounce the lack of clear responses from prison authorities, who reportedly state that they do not know when food supplies will be restored.
In light of this alarming situation, the detainees are making an urgent appeal to the relevant authorities and humanitarian organizations to provide immediate food assistance as their condition continues to worsen.