Burundi: Climate Change Turns Rainy Season Into Urban Hazard

Burundi faces significant risks from climate change, with heavy rains causing floods, fatalities, and environmental displacement. Unregulated construction and deforestation exacerbate these dangers, particularly in urban areas such as Bujumbura. The government acknowledges its responsibility towards land management yet struggles to implement effective measures. As a result, financial losses ensue, especially affecting disadvantaged communities, necessitating improved collaboration and disaster management efforts.

Burundi, located in the Great Lakes region of Eastern Africa, faces heavy rainfall for nine months each year, beginning with the first drops in September. While this rainy season is essential for agriculture, it brings significant suffering to families, instilling panic and frustration. The excessive rainfall results in environmental disasters, including loss of life and displacements, particularly affecting urban areas like Bujumbura, where unregulated construction and deforestation exacerbate the situation.

Tragic incidents during the rainy season, such as the drowning of two children in October 2024, highlight the danger posed by uncontrolled rainwater. Witnesses report that such accidents occur frequently, and local residents echo their frustration regarding governmental inaction. “Although the authorities know what happens to us every rainy season, they have abandoned us. This rainfall kills, disrupts sleep, and results in environmentally displaced people every rainy season due to their homes flooding.” – Anonymous Witness.

The financial repercussions of persistent heavy rainfall disproportionately impact disadvantaged individuals. Truck drivers who deliver materials often find their earnings severely diminished, with many reporting a drop in income by as much as fifty percent due to impassable roads. Nzeyimana Thomas, a building materials supplier, stated, “During severe rainy seasons, our incomes drop dramatically. A truck that makes ten visits in the summer only makes five in rainy seasons.”

In light of these issues, the Burundian Constitution designates the government responsible for effective land-use planning. Flood victims argue for the implementation of necessary infrastructure improvements, such as road construction and water management systems. Bigirimana Constantin, director-general of the Burundi Road Agency, acknowledged, “We know the rainwater from the mountains overlooking Bujumbura causes tremendous damage, affecting the condition of the roads and preventing their users from going about their everyday activities.”

Despite government acknowledgment of the challenges posed by climate change, many citizens feel abandoned due to inadequate response and resource allocation. Innocent Banigwaninzigo, an environmentalist, emphasized the dire need for increased disaster management funding and collaboration with international partners to combat these escalating crises. He noted, “The Burundian government cannot meet the country’s current needs alone or implement climate change prevention measures.”

The rapid urbanization and corruption surrounding building permits further complicate the issue, as unregulated construction encroaches on once-forested areas that serve to prevent erosion and flooding. Community members express skepticism about the legitimacy of land allocations, with many alleging that illegal practices occur under the government’s watch. This situation calls for a dedicated effort toward environmental education and responsible resource management to ensure a sustainable future for Burundi.

Burundi’s experience of heavy rainfall highlights the significant dangers that climate change poses to urban communities. The government faces immense pressure to improve land management practices and infrastructure development to address the recurrent flooding that leads to loss of life and displacement. With increased awareness and education, it is vital for governmental and non-governmental organizations to collaborate effectively in combating the challenges brought on by environmental degradation and urbanization.

Original Source: globalvoices.org