The United Methodist Church in Burundi (UMCB), in partnership with the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), provided humanitarian assistance to refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo residing at the Musenyi refugee site in Musongati Commune, Burunga Province.
The humanitarian outreach took place on December 19, 2025, and was officially launched by Bishop Emmanuel Sinzohagera, who was accompanied by staff from the Bishop’s Office, the Superintendent and pastors of the Giharo District, local administrative authorities, leaders of the Musenyi site, and representatives of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Speaking during the event, Godelieve Manirakiza, Project Coordinator, explained that the United Methodist Church in Burundi had developed a comprehensive refugee support project aimed at improving living conditions at the site.
“This project includes the distribution of food, clothing, clean drinking water, roofing sheets for shelters, hygiene kits for women and girls, medicines, and lighting systems to enhance safety at the site,” Manirakiza said.
As part of the project launch, Bishop Sinzohagera oversaw the distribution of essential food items and cooking oil to refugee households. In addition, clean water access was inaugurated through the installation of water lamps at four strategic locations around the site, benefiting both refugees and surrounding communities.
In his address, Bishop Sinzohagera expressed gratitude to the Government of Burundi for its hospitality toward refugees and acknowledged the vital role of humanitarian partners.
“We thank the Government of Burundi for opening its doors to our brothers and sisters fleeing conflict, and we are grateful to all organizations working tirelessly to support them,” he said.
The Bishop further announced that the assistance provided by the United Methodist Church would be implemented in several phases, extending through August 2026.
Beyond material support, Bishop Sinzohagera offered words of spiritual encouragement to the refugees.
“Do not allow the difficult circumstances you are facing to weaken your faith or distance you from God,” he urged. “Continue to pray for your country, so that peace may return and you may one day go back home in dignity.”
Refugees at the Musenyi site expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support they received.
“We thank the Church for thinking of us during these very difficult living conditions,” several beneficiaries said.
Local administrative authorities and UNHCR representatives also commended the initiative, describing it as a strong expression of solidarity and compassion.
“This act of love complements the many development and humanitarian initiatives already being implemented by the United Methodist Church in Burundi across various sectors of the country,” noted one local leader.
The intervention underscores the continued commitment of the UMC Burundi Annual Conference to supporting vulnerable communities and promoting hope, dignity, and resilience among displaced populations in Burundi.