UNICEF concerned over violence against children in Burundi

The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) on Wednesday said that it is deeply concerned about the impact on children from both violence and increasing poverty in Burundi.

Children risk bearing the brunt of an escalation in violence in Burundi, UNICEF warned, noting that the crisis has already left 17 children dead and many more injured.

Since the crisis began in April, child rights violations have multiplied, with children being caught up in violent clashes and raids, schools being hit by grenade blasts, and more than 100 children being arbitrarily detained at times for long periods alongside adult prisoners.

"Children must not pay the price for the crisis in Burundi," said UNICEF's regional director in Eastern and Southern Africa, Leila Gharagozloo-Pakkala, in a news release.

"Burundian law establishes clear respect for children's rights, and the protection of children from violence. Such laws must be respected," said Gharagozloo-Pakkala.

Additionally, UNICEF reported that food prices in the region are rising sharply with more than four out of five Burundians already living on less than 1.25 U.S. dollars a day, making it very difficult for many families to adequately feed their children.

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Burundi's economy is slated to shrink by 7.2 percent this year.

UNICEF also raised concern about the shortages of essential medicines for children and mothers, adding that it is imperative that there is continued investment in children, from protection to healthcare at the moment.

"There is a strong case for support, now in these troubled times more than ever," said Gharagozloo-Pakkala.

According to UNICEF estimates, more than 200,000 people from Burundi have fled into neighboring Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, including 6,000 unaccompanied or separated children. Endit