Burundi seeks 630 billion francs for El Niño
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Breaking Burundi
Burundi is seeking more than 630 billion Burundian francs to respond to the expected effects of El Niño, which could affect more than four million people. Heavy rains have already damaged roads and homes and displaced residents, according to Breaking Burundi.
Burundi is seeking more than 630 billion Burundian francs to deal with the expected effects of El Niño, as heavy rains have already damaged infrastructure and forced residents to leave their homes in some areas. The government estimates that more than four million people could be affected by the phenomenon, according to Breaking Burundi.
Since August 2026, the Burundi Geographical Institute (IGEBU) has forecast above-average rainfall of between 400 and 450 millimetres during the current agricultural season. The World Meteorological Organization estimates that El Niño could continue into 2027, while IGEBU fears conditions comparable to those in 2023, marked by floods and landslides.
In Bukinanyana, in Bujumbura Province, the rains have already damaged roads and homes, causing residents to be displaced, according to local reports. Gatumba, also in Bujumbura Province, is among the areas regularly affected by severe flooding.
On Friday, the Burundian government and the UN resident coordinator in Burundi signed a joint declaration on the El Niño 2026-2027 operational plan. Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation Minister Édouard Bizimana called for a rapid and coordinated response, with responsibilities clearly divided among institutions. Climatologist Athanase Nkunzimana warned of risks of soil erosion and landslides in mountainous areas, as well as flooding and overflowing waterways in valleys and lowlands.
