Action Against Hunger Suspends Programmes in Burundi

Three weeks after the attack against an Action Against Hunger (ACF) vehicle at the end of December, which killed French aid worker Agnes Dury and seriously injured another aid worker, ACF has decided to suspend its programmes in Burundi.

The circumstances surrounding the attack and its motive remain unclear. It is certain, however, that this was a deliberate attack. Following this tragic event, ACF carried out a detailed analysis of the situation to assess the risk of continuing its activities. This risk assessment showed that the current security conditions do not allow for a resumption of ACF’s activities in the country.

Therefore, ACF decided to close its mission in Burundi. This decision has been extremely difficult due to the scale of humanitarian needs in the area. However, ACF is unable to guarantee the security of its staff in the current context.

Regarding its crucial programs for the treatment of acute malnutrition, ACF had long planned to integrate these activities into public health structures. This process started some months ago and will be finalised in the next few days to ensure treatment continues. However, ACF’s psycho-social activities and its water and food security programs have unfortunately been suspended.

ACF is deeply shocked by this brutal crime. Despite the suspension of its activities in Burundi, ACF will closely follow the judicial investigations into the crime. An investigation is currently being carried out in Burundi and the French justice system has appointed a prosecutor to probe the case.