Income-generating projects in Burundi have seen a sharp decline following the escalation of conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in February 2025. The ongoing violence has severely disrupted trade and transportation along the border, particularly in the Gatumba sector, which is situated along the western border of the DRC.
The situation has led to significant economic hardship for many families living along National Road 4, the key route connecting Bujumbura (Burundi’s capital) and Uvira (a major town in DRC). This route has historically been vital for trade between the two countries, but the recent downturn has left many drivers and traders struggling to make a living.
Pascal Nt., a driver on the Bujumbura-Gatumba-Uvira route, explained the sharp change in his work conditions: “Nowadays, we only have a couple of passengers traveling from Uvira to Burundi, sometimes just two. The situation has changed drastically. We used to expect at least four clients from Uvira, which would have been a relief, but now we often return home without any passengers.”
Previously, the National Route 4 was a bustling corridor for trade and travel, with a high volume of Congolese buyers regularly crossing into Burundi to purchase goods from major markets. Fiston Mulondani, another driver on the Uvira-Gatumba route, expressed his frustration: “Things were much better before. I could start my day bringing passengers from Uvira to Bujumbura, and I could make two trips daily. But everything changed for the worse around mid-February.”
The declining trade volume is especially concerning as, in the fourth quarter of 2023, over 89% of Burundi’s exports were directed to the DRC, underscoring the critical role this market plays in Burundi’s economy. However, the closure of the border, coupled with a surge in refugees fleeing the conflict in eastern DRC, has led to a substantial slowdown in business and increased economic strain.
Local authorities have raised alarms that the continuing disruption of cross-border trade could lead to a broader economic crisis in Burundi, which is already facing challenges in diversifying its economy and ensuring sustainable development. As the conflict in DRC remains unresolved, the future of trade between Burundi and its neighbor looks uncertain, further exacerbating the economic hardships for those who depend on it.
