In September 2025, the World Food Programme (WFP) continued its vital humanitarian operations in Burundi, reaching over 796,000 people with food and nutrition assistance. This included support for 117,825 refugees and asylum seekers across five camps, one site, and two transit centers. Among those assisted were 31,813 children under five and 4,713 elderly individuals, reflecting WFP’s targeted approach to reaching the most vulnerable. Refugees in camps received hybrid rations consisting of both in-kind food and cash transfers, while newly arrived asylum seekers were provided with hot meals upon arrival, ensuring immediate relief and sustenance.
During the month, WFP distributed 1,102 metric tons of food and disbursed USD 1.35 million through cash-based transfers. Despite these efforts, the organization faced a significant funding gap, with a six-month net requirement of USD 37.58 million for operations spanning April to September 2025. This shortfall posed serious challenges to sustaining and scaling up assistance, particularly in a country grappling with chronic food insecurity, high malnutrition rates, and limited institutional capacity. Fuel shortages further complicated logistics and delivery, adding strain to an already fragile operational environment.
Burundi’s economic conditions remained precarious, with inflation driven largely by surging food prices. According to the June 2025 Consumer Price Index, year-on-year inflation stood at 41.6%, with food prices alone rising by 42.6%. These increases severely impacted household purchasing power, intensifying the need for external food assistance and nutritional support. WFP’s interventions aimed to cushion the effects of inflation by providing targeted aid to those most affected, while also reinforcing resilience through community-based programs.
Despite operational hurdles, WFP maintained its commitment to supporting Burundi’s food security and long-term development. The September country brief underscores the urgency of sustained funding and coordinated action to address the country’s humanitarian needs. As WFP continues to navigate complex challenges, its work remains a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of Burundians facing daily uncertainty and hardship.