HIGHLIGHTS
In Burundi, UNHCR continued to monitor returns and carry out its refugee response programmes. However, freedom of movement is becoming increasingly restricted, limiting access to persons of concern.
In Rwanda, the Government, UNHCR and its partners successfully facilitated the organisation of the triennial refugee representative elections, which took place from 22 to 23 March.
In Tanzania, relocations from Nyarugusu to Mtendeli are planned to resume in April but the camp cannot be used at full capacity until further land and water issues are resolved.
Refugees reported increased difficulty in leaving the country and continued human rights violations such as sexual and gender based violence (SGBV), intimidation, killings and forced recruitment by Imbonerakure militia. Across the region, the daily rate of arrivals decreased during the second half of March, even though the situation in Burundi remained volatile.
KEY FIGURES
256,752 New Burundian refugees in the neighbouring countries since the beginning of April 2015
FUNDING
USD 175.1 million requested for the situation for January-December 2016.
PRIORITIES
Tanzania: Resolve the land issue in Mtendeli to free up space and expand water and shelter accordingly
Rwanda: Enhance psychosocial counselling response for new arrivals
DRC: Replace plastic sheeting in all semi-durable shelters Uganda: Carry out malaria prevention and awareness raising activities