Burundi’s Rainy Season: A Public Health and Economic Emergency Caused by Climate Change
Burundi faces extreme challenges during its rainy season, characterized by heavy rainfall leading to fatalities, displacement, and significant economic loss, particularly in urban areas like Bujumbura. Factors such as poor infrastructure, negligent construction practices, and the impacts of climate change drive these dangers. Community calls for government accountability highlight the urgent need for effective disaster management and infrastructure development to protect vulnerable populations.
Burundi, situated in the Great Lakes region of Eastern Africa, experiences nine months of substantial rainfall each year, typically commencing in September after a three-month dry season. While this precipitation is essential, it often leads to severe consequences for families, causing distress and devastation. In Bujumbura, the economic capital, rainwater from the mountains can result in tragic fatalities and displacement, halting daily activities such as schooling and business operations. The root causes of these recurrent disasters in Burundi include haphazard construction practices, irresponsible deforestation, and inadequate strategies to address these climate challenges, alongside the broader impact of climate change, which disproportionately affects Africa despite its minimal pollution contribution.
The rainy season is particularly deadly in Bujumbura, with incidents of fatalities occurring annually due to flooding. In October 2024, two children tragically lost their lives when they were swept away by sudden rainfall while returning home from school. Community witnesses have voiced concerns over the frequency of such accidents during the rainy season, expressing frustration at the inaction of government authorities. One local remarked on the recurring negligence: “Les autorités nous ont abandonnés alors qu’elles sont au courant de ce qui nous arrive à chaque saison pluvieuse.” – Source.
The financial impact of heavy rainfall on vulnerable populations is significant, particularly affecting professions reliant on transport and construction materials. Truck drivers face substantial income reductions due to impassable roads, with earnings potentially slashed by half during the wet months. Nzeyimana Thomas, a local supplier, lamented, “Pendant la saison des pluies excessives, nous enregistrons une baisse énorme de nos revenus.” – Source. Additionally, difficulties with truck repairs add to their financial burden.
Despite Article 35 of the Burundian Constitution mandating government responsibility for land-use planning and resource management, residents suffering from recurring floods assert their right to demand effective governmental action. Flooding incidents, particularly during the monsoonal months, have prompted calls for improved infrastructural development, including durable roads and water management systems. Bigirimana Constantin, director-general of the Burundi Road Agency (ARB), acknowledged the problems caused by rain, stating, “Les eaux de pluie en provenance des montagnes surplombant Bujumbura causent d’énormes dégâts” – Source. However, he criticized existing urbanization practices contributing to the degradation of the environment.
To mitigate these climate-induced challenges, the government has sought international aid and signed agreements with the African Development Bank to enhance resilience against climate change. Innocent Banigwaninzigo, an environmentalist, underscored the inadequacy of national efforts alone, stating, “L’État burundais à lui seul ne peut pas faire face aux besoins en cours” – Source. He emphasized the necessity for a substantial increase in the disaster management budget, noting the urgent need given the rising number of victims due to climatic fluctuations.
While the Burundian government has established a legal framework for effective environmental management, the lack of adherence to these regulations remains a significant barrier. Banigwaninzigo highlighted the critical importance of education to foster a change in social attitudes towards environmental stewardship and shared responsibility regarding climate change. Moreover, unregulated construction continues to exacerbate soil erosion and vulnerability to flooding, aligning community grievances toward government accountability for permitting such developments without proper oversight.
The precarious situation in Burundi demands an immediate and coordinated response from the government and relevant authorities. Effective initiatives should be harmonized to respond to the escalating risks posed by climate change, ensuring the safety and sustainability of urban communities.
In summary, Burundi’s rainy season presents severe challenges, including fatalities, displacement, and economic hardships, largely driven by inadequate infrastructure and climate change. The government’s neglect in addressing these issues, coupled with unregulated urban construction, exacerbates the crisis. A collaborative effort is essential for effective disaster management and to enhance resilience against climate-related risks, ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations in urban areas.
Original Source: globalvoices.org
