Burunga and Bujumbura : a devastating storm destroys homes, schools, and crops

SOS Médias Burundi

Burunga/Bujumbura, September 29, 2025 – On Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28, a violent storm combining torrential rains, strong winds, and hail hit the districts of Matana (Burunga, southern Burundi) and Mugina (Bujumbura, western Burundi). More than 60 houses were destroyed, several schools were seriously damaged, and more than 100 hectares of food crops were wiped out. Affected families are calling for urgent and fair assistance to cope with this disaster.

In the district of Matana, Burunga province, the storm that struck on the evening of Saturday, September 27, destroyed more than 60 houses, as well as more than 10 classrooms in four schools. Other buildings suffered significant damage, and banana fields were severely damaged.

“The affected families no longer have a roof over their heads and are requesting immediate assistance,” the local administration stated.

The district administrator, Gloriose Niyubahwe, assured that she had communicated the situation to her superiors to mobilize rapid support. She also indicated that the district, in collaboration with parents and school officials, would seek solutions to allow pupils to continue their studies despite the destruction.

More than 100 hectares of crops lost in Mugina

The following day, Sunday, September 28, the Nyamakarabo zone of ​​Mugina district, Bujumbura province, was hit by gusts of wind accompanied by hail. The damage was considerable : more than 100 hectares of food crops—cassava, banana trees, crocases, and other crops—were destroyed.

Residents, who had hoped for a good harvest, now fear food insecurity. They are requesting support from the Ministry of Solidarity and insisting that aid be distributed fairly so that those truly affected are not left behind, as happened during previous distributions.