Bwagiriza: old and inadequate latrines endanger the health of nearly 8,000 Congolese refugees

The Congolese refugee camp of Bwagiriza, in Ruyigi province, eastern Burundi, has nearly 8,000 people. But daily life in this camp is not easy, particularly with regard to sanitary conditions. The old and inadequate latrines endanger the health of the occupants.

INFO SOS Médias Burundi

Congolese refugees from the Bwagiriza site speak of an unbearable condition.

“A toilet is shared by 4 households completely unsanitary, the latrines are often not working and the smell is unbearable,” complains a mother from Bwagiriza.

“I am worried about my children’s health,” adds another woman.

“They are exposed to infections and diseases, and I fear they will contract serious diseases,” she adds, desperately.

The effets of this situation are numerous. The spread of diseases such as diarrhea and respiratory infections is a constant danger, noted an SOS Médias Burundi reporter.

The body in charge of hygiene and sanitation in the camp (COPED – Council for Development and Education) that we contacted acknowledges the seriousness of the situation.

“We are aware of the problem of latrines, and we are working to improve hygiene and sanitation conditions in the camp,” explains an official of this organization.

He considers the task to be arduous but sympathetic.

“We understand the frustration of the refugees, and we are doing our best to meet their needs,” assures this official.

“We are relying on the help of humanitarian partners to improve hygiene and sanitation conditions in the camp and guarantee health security of refugees,” he concluded.

The situation in Bwagiriza camp is an example of the importance of ensuring decent hygiene and sanitation conditions for refugees. Ensuring an easy access to latrines and sanitation services is crucial to prevent diseases and protect people’s health, says a young intellectual living in Bwagiriza.

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Broken down latrines in the Congolese refugee camp of Bwagiriza, August 2024 (SOS Médias Burundi)