Burundi: why are we there?

It suffered widespread destruction because of the continual conflict and warfare endured between 1993 to 2005. The civil war was the result of long standing ethnic divisions between the Hutu and the Tutsi tribes. It is estimated that approximately half a million people were killed and 770,000 Burundian refugees fled to neighbouring Tanzania, others were displaced internally. (link to glossary) Today, the country's infrastructure is still poor, its government structure is weak, and much property has been destroyed. 93% people live on less than 2 US$ a day (World Bank 2011)

More than half of those who left during the conflict returned to Burundi to find their homes in ruins or land occupied by others. The vast majority of people live in rural areas, and are struggling to survive with little or no support.

How is this affecting people today?

Land, its topsoil eroded by deforestation and scared by the fighting, was often occupied by those who arrived home first, resulting in disputes over rightful ownership. Women are particularly vulnerable, many widowed by the war and with no rights to inherit land. Agriculture is the main industry in Burundi but without land or crops, food is scarce. Without money or the means of earning a living, the majority cannot afford health care, whilst 42% have no access to water within 1km. Hygiene and sanitation are poor.

Schools were destroyed or severely damaged meaning the education system needs a lot of support. The pressures of domestic duties and work in the fields are demanding for poorer families meaning many girls didn’t go to school and that men are reluctant to see their wives have access to education. Communities are disjointed and women have experienced much violence at the hands of men.

For more up to date information visit UNDP Burundi profile