Burunga : growing tensions around the Muragarazi River between the Burundian and Tanzanian populations

SOS Médias Burundi

Burunga, July 25, 2025 – The recent flooding of the Muragarazi River, which marks the border between Burundi and Tanzania, has displaced some Burundian lands into the Tanzanian territory. This situation has rekindled tensions between riverside communities, fueled by intimidation and geopolitical issues.

A climate of tension currently prevails in the border areas between Burundi and Tanzania, particularly in the former district territories of Kibago (formerly Makamba province) and Bukemba (formerly Rutana province), in the new Burunga province in southern Burundi. The cause : the Muragarazi River, the natural border between the two countries, has recently changed its course, sparking a series of conflicts between riverside communities.

According to testimonies gathered on site, during the previous rainy season, the river left its original bed, sweeping away arable land formerly farmed by Burundian citizens. These lands, now located on the Tanzanian side, are at the heart of a land and geopolitical dispute. The Muragarazi Valley, particularly the one farmed by SOSUMO (Moso Sugar Company), is now a flashpoint in this silent rivalry.

This change has led to growing tensions on the ground. Youth affiliated with Tanzania’s ruling party, the CCM (Chama Cha Mapinduzi), began violently evicting Burundians who continued to farm on these displaced lands. Clashes nearly broke out, leading to the intervention of the Burundian army, which came to calm the clashes and secure its citizens.

However, despite this intervention, mistrust remains. Burundians attempting to return to cultivate these lands continue to face intimidation, accusing them of illegally crossing the border.

Faced with this situation, residents are calling on the Burundian government to act quickly to find a lasting solution. They are advocating for immediate work—during the dry season when river levels are low—to redirect the Muragarazi River back to its former course and thus restore the natural boundaries between the two countries.

Burundian administration and security authorities have acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and confirm that the case has been referred to higher authorities for urgent action.

This discreet but latent conflict highlights the challenges associated with shifting natural borders, exacerbated by the effects of climate change and the lack of effective cross-border dispute resolution mechanisms.