In Burundi, families in the Imbo Plains and Northern Lowlands are facing growing food insecurity as food stocks from the 2024 Season B harvest run out. According to the latest report from USAID’s Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET), these regions are experiencing Stressed (IPC Phase 2) food security conditions. This means that at least 20 percent of households are struggling to access enough food, and acute malnutrition rates are expected to reach between 5 and 10 percent.
The crisis in the Imbo Plains has been worsened by flooding and the overflow of Lake Tanganyika, which have severely impacted crop yields and reduced incomes for local families. In the Northern Lowlands, irregular rainfall and disruptions to cross-border trade with Rwanda are making it even harder for households to buy food, as their purchasing power continues to shrink.
While other parts of Burundi are seeing better conditions due to near-average crop production, food prices across the country have risen sharply. In August 2024 alone, food prices surged by 10 percent, with some prices now 20 to 40 percent higher than the five-year average. Inflation has skyrocketed to nearly 20 percent—a significant increase from 10 percent in May. One of the hardest-hit commodities is sugar, which has seen a staggering 140 percent price increase, jumping from 3,300 to 8,000 Burundi Francs (BIF). These rising prices, coupled with low currency reserves and reliance on parallel markets, are pushing families to the brink.
At War Child, we are deeply committed to supporting vulnerable children and their families in Burundi, especially as they face these difficult times. In regions like the Imbo Plains and Northern Lowlands, where food insecurity is hitting hardest, we are working to make a difference through a variety of critical programs.
Our teams on the ground are providing emergency food supplies to the most affected families while also promoting sustainable farming practices to help communities increase their crop yields in the future. Additionally, War Child’s mental health and psychosocial support programs are helping children and their caregivers cope with the emotional stress caused by food shortages and rising prices.
We understand that when a crisis like this hits, children are often the ones who suffer most. That's why our programs are designed not just to provide immediate relief, but also to offer long-term solutions that empower families. Whether it’s through education, child protection, or youth empowerment, we are here to help children stay safe, healthy, and hopeful for a better future.
The food insecurity crisis in Burundi is real, and it’s impacting children and families right now. By supporting War Child’s work, you can help provide life-saving assistance and give children the chance to thrive. Every donation, big or small, can make a meaningful difference.
Join us today in standing with the children and families of Burundi. Together, we can offer hope and support during these challenging times.
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