Burundi is a small beautiful country in central Africa. It is known as the land with a thousand and one hills. Since April 19, 2015, Burundi has been experiencing political unrest due to the incumbent president Pierre Nkurunziza's decision to seek for a third term in office that is seen to be against the peace agreement signed in 2005 which put an end to a civil war that lasted 12 years.
Political opposition and civil society organizations invaded the streets for weeks protesting against this. Clashes and skirmishes between protestors and police heightened the tension especially in the capital city of Bujumbura, causing injuries, deaths and many citizens to flee the country.
An increase of tension followed when an attempted coup d’état failed on May 13, 2015. Independent radio and television stations have been burned. Journalists and principal leaders of civil society are hiding or have been killed. Fear reigns in the country. Lack of information and rumours make the situation even worse. The disciples of the Bujumbura Church of Christ live in the most affected city of Bujumbura. There are 70 disciples, 12 of whom have so far managed to flee with their families to Rwanda or Kenya.
Disciples, like other citizens, are afraid (of the unknown). They are going hungry and have been stuck in their houses for more than a month. They have lost their businesses as well. Many Burundians earn from hand to mouth hence the increase of hunger and poverty when unable to work.
We experience sad cases like one widow who took her unconscious five-year-old son to a health center, only to see him coming back to life after five minutes of intravenous drip of glucose because he was hungry. She begged the nurse to allow her to bring her son in daily for the intravenous drip. Men are forced to have sleepless nights so as to guard their houses and streets in fear of attacks. Some disciples are forced to abandon their homes and have found shelter in estates where there are fewer demonstrations. The situation is still unpredictable and no one knows when it will end.
The political tensions in Burundi have contributed to a mounting humanitarian crisis as thousands of Burundian refugees continue to seek safety in neighbouring countries. Since early April, in fact, more than 100,000 Burundians have fled across the borders to Rwanda, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo among others.
We are hopeful and prayerful. Our eyes are fixed on our Lord God to change the situation. He alone is "able to do immeasurable more than we can ask or imagine" (Ephesians 3:20). Your prayers are much appreciated. The churches in East Africa have fundraised and supported our brothers and sisters in Bujumbura. We appeal for prayers from our brothers and sisters everywhere to enable the disciples in Bujumbura.
God bless you.
Tom and Diddy Akello
Evangelist, Bujumbura Church of Christ, Burundi