Burundi is struggling to cope with a rapid influx of over 40,000 refugees fleeing intensified fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The UN has warned of an escalating humanitarian crisis as thousands arrive daily, many in urgent need of aid.
The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) reported that over 9,000 people crossed into Burundi in a single day last week, marking an unprecedented surge. “This is the first time Burundi has received this large number of people,” said Brigitte Mukanga-eno, UNHCR’s representative in Burundi.
The refugees are escaping renewed conflict in eastern Congo, where the M23 rebel group has launched its most significant offensive in over a decade. The fighting stems from longstanding ethnic and political tensions, as well as competition for Congo’s vast mineral wealth.
Rwanda has denied allegations from the DRC, UN, and Western governments that it is supporting M23 with arms and troops. Kigali claims it is defending itself against Hutu militias operating alongside the Congolese military.
The refugee crisis has put immense pressure on Burundi’s northwest regions, where many displaced people arrive injured or suffering from health issues like measles. Some, already displaced multiple times, struggle to survive. The UNHCR recounted the tragic case of a woman whose two children died from exhaustion shortly after reaching Burundi.
Since February 14, at least 36,000 people have crossed the Rusizi River on makeshift boats, while another 6,000 have entered via official border crossings in Bujumbura. Many are being temporarily sheltered in stadiums, schools, and churches.
The UNHCR has launched an emergency appeal for $40.4 million to support up to 258,000 displaced people across Burundi, Tanzania, and Zambia. Plans are underway to relocate refugees to areas where they can receive humanitarian aid.
Burundi, which has deployed troops in eastern Congo for years, initially sent soldiers to target Burundian rebels. More recently, its forces have joined the fight against M23, further entangling the country in the region’s ongoing instability.
Apple’s iPhone, along with other foreign-branded smartphones, saw a sharp 21% decline in shipments in China this January. Economic shifts and rising competition from local brands are reshaping the market, putting pressure on international players like Apple.
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has sued the Indian government over the approval of commercial flights from Hindon Airbase, 30 km from the capital's airport. DIAL argues it violates aviation regulations and threatens financial viability, seeking to overturn the decision.
Reliance Jio will offer free IPL streaming to users recharging with ₹299 or more. The matches can be streamed on the new JioHotstar platform. The plan also includes a 50-day trial of Jio's broadband services, aiming to boost home internet dominance.
Germany pledged €300 million in aid for Syrians, focusing on food, healthcare, shelters, and protection. The funds will support those in Syria and refugees in neighboring countries. Foreign Minister Baerbock stressed the need for political inclusion and accountability.
A drone crashed into a landed helicopter at a South Korean military airfield, sparking a fire but causing no casualties. The incident, at Yangju’s Army Aviation Battalion, is under investigation. Authorities are assessing damage and reviewing airspace security.
Intel’s incoming CEO Lip-Bu Tan is reportedly planning a comprehensive restructuring of the company’s manufacturing processes and artificial intelligence strategies—a bold move aimed at reviving the tech giant’s fortunes, according to two people familiar with his plans.
AstraZeneca is acquiring Belgium-based EsoBiotec for $1 billion to expand its cell therapy capabilities, with the deal set to close in the second quarter.
The National Bank of Kazakhstan is launching the Gold Coin project, a digital version of an investment coin, beginning on March 17, 2025.
Apple’s iPhone, along with other foreign-branded smartphones, saw a sharp 21% decline in shipments in China this January. Economic shifts and rising competition from local brands are reshaping the market, putting pressure on international players like Apple.
Uludağ, one of Türkiye’s oldest and largest soft drink brands, will receive a €25 million loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to finance investments in production lines and renewable energy capacity.
The inside of a Herculaneum delicate & ancient scroll, unseen for nearly 2,000 years, has been revealed using Artificial Intelligence.
World leaders welcomed the 30-day ceasefire proposal that Ukraine has agreed to, calling it a step toward ending the conflict with Russia.
President Donald Trump has vowed to respond to the European Union's counter-tariffs, escalating tensions over the U.S. steel and aluminum duties that have sparked a trade dispute between the two economic powers.
In Tuesday’s closely watched parliamentary election, Greenland’s pro-business opposition Demokraatit party took a commanding lead after over 90% of the ballots were counted.
BioNTech forecasts a revenue decline for 2025, expecting between 1.7 billion and 2.2 billion euros, down from 2.75 billion euros last year. This drop is due to Pfizer write-downs and stable vaccination rates. BioNTech also plans significant job cuts and new hires.
Intel’s incoming CEO Lip-Bu Tan is reportedly planning a comprehensive restructuring of the company’s manufacturing processes and artificial intelligence strategies—a bold move aimed at reviving the tech giant’s fortunes, according to two people familiar with his plans.
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has sued the Indian government over the approval of commercial flights from Hindon Airbase, 30 km from the capital's airport. DIAL argues it violates aviation regulations and threatens financial viability, seeking to overturn the decision.
A U.S. military-contracted tanker was hit by a cargo ship off England’s northeast coast, causing a fire and fuel spill. Over 17,000 barrels of jet fuel were lost, and the cargo ship’s captain faces a manslaughter charge after a crew member’s death.
The U.S. has vowed to maintain airstrikes against Yemen's Houthi rebels, until they stop targeting international shipping. This commitment comes as U.S. forces carry out ongoing operations in the region.
A drone crashed into a landed helicopter at a South Korean military airfield, sparking a fire but causing no casualties. The incident, at Yangju’s Army Aviation Battalion, is under investigation. Authorities are assessing damage and reviewing airspace security.
Intel’s incoming CEO Lip-Bu Tan is reportedly planning a comprehensive restructuring of the company’s manufacturing processes and artificial intelligence strategies—a bold move aimed at reviving the tech giant’s fortunes, according to two people familiar with his plans.
AstraZeneca is acquiring Belgium-based EsoBiotec for $1 billion to expand its cell therapy capabilities, with the deal set to close in the second quarter.
The National Bank of Kazakhstan is launching the Gold Coin project, a digital version of an investment coin, beginning on March 17, 2025.
Apple’s iPhone, along with other foreign-branded smartphones, saw a sharp 21% decline in shipments in China this January. Economic shifts and rising competition from local brands are reshaping the market, putting pressure on international players like Apple.
Uludağ, one of Türkiye’s oldest and largest soft drink brands, will receive a €25 million loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to finance investments in production lines and renewable energy capacity.
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