Drop in new arrivals from Burundi

The number of new arrivals from Burundi into camps in Tanzania had dropped significantly by 10 October, WFP said in its latest emergency update. The drop is attributed partly to the strong Burundi military presence at the border with Tanzania, preventing any movement from Burundi to Tanzania. Some 630 refugees were assisted in returning to Burundi, mostly women and children. WFP said the situation in the region remained “volatile” and new arrivals were a possibility. WFP, UNHCR and other NGOs are currently engaged in revising contingency plans, in the event that the situation in Burundi deteriorates, and are trying to identify suitable sites to accommodate new arrivals. Meanwhile, the Nduta camp has reached its capacity and cannot receive any more refugees. UNHCR is trying to identify empty plots in existing camps in Kibondo district such as Mtendeli camp and exploring the possibility of extending the camp. The influx started on 1 October when some 1,200 Burundians crossed into the Kigoma area. In the following four days, an estimated 3,000 Burundian refugees reportedly crossed into Tanzania to flee a Burundian army offensive against rebels.