125,000 refugees in Burundi face food assistance cuts without urgent funding

The World Food Programme (WFP) warned on November 3, 2026 that nearly 125,000 refugees in Burundi risk losing life-saving food assistance beginning in January 2027 unless additional funding is urgently secured, according to a press release. Most of these refugees have fled persistent conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in search of food and safety. The warning was issued from Bujumbura, where WFP operations continue to serve displaced populations. The organization stressed that assistance remains the primary food source for most refugees in the country. Without fresh contributions, WFP will be forced to halt vital food support early next year.

Generous contributions from the United States and Belgium prevented an interruption that had been expected in October. These funds enabled WFP to maintain assistance through the end of 2026. However, resources will be exhausted at the close of the year. Continued insecurity in the region prevents many refugees from returning home safely. Limited livelihood opportunities also make it difficult for them to earn income and support their families.

Alongside providing immediate food assistance, WFP is working with the Government of Burundi, UNHCR – the UN Refugee Agency and other partners to expand refugees’ access to livelihoods and social protection. The partnership also aims to open opportunities for refugees to participate in the local economy. This combined support can help refugees become more self-reliant. It is also designed to benefit host communities. Strengthening social cohesion remains a central objective of the joint response.

“Most refugees in Burundi rely on WFP assistance as their main source of food. Continued insecurity prevents many from returning home safely, while limited livelihood opportunities make it difficult to earn an income and support their families,” said Arduino Mangoni, WFP acting Country Director in Burundi. He urged donors to act without delay. “We call on the international community to provide urgent support so refugees can continue meeting their most basic needs, including food,” he added.

The appeal underscores the fragile situation facing displaced families.

WFP urgently requires USD 40 million to prevent an interruption in assistance and raise support from 45 percent to 100 percent of minimum food needs for nearly 125,000 refugees through September 2027. An additional USD 1 million is required to provide school meals to 16,000 children from refugee and host communities in schools surrounding refugee camps through September 2027. Together, these resources would secure both immediate nutrition and continued learning. The agency reiterated its call for timely international contributions. Without them, essential services for refugees in Burundi will be disrupted.