The Burundian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has refuted and condemned a recent investigative report by TV5 Monde’s Journal Afrique, which alleged that Burundian women working in Saudi Arabia have suffered serious human rights abuses, including trafficking.
In a press release issued Wednesday, the ministry described the report as “false, malicious, and entirely unfounded,” rejecting its claims outright. The ministry emphasized that Burundian labor migration to Saudi Arabia is governed by a bilateral agreement signed in 2021, aimed at regulating labor mobility and ensuring the legal protection, social security, and human rights of Burundian workers abroad.
“The Ministry categorically denies and strongly condemns the dissemination of baseless information by TV5 Monde’s Journal Afrique regarding Burundian workers deployed to Saudi Arabia,” according to the statement posted on X.
Investigation Uncovers Allegations of Abuse and Complicity
The TV5 Monde report, part of a cross-border investigation conducted jointly with the Ukweli Coalition Media Hub, Afrique XXI, and Africa Uncensored, shed light on troubling abuses experienced by Burundian women working in the Gulf. The investigation claims that despite the official agreement, many female workers face exploitation by unscrupulous intermediaries known as dalalas, as well as complicity by some local recruitment agencies and officials.
Among the testimonies highlighted was the tragic case of a 24-year-old female Burundian domestic worker who died under unclear circumstances after four months in Saudi Arabia. According to her family and the investigation, she had disputes with her employer and was temporarily taken in by dalalas, where she reportedly fell ill before passing away. The family claims they reached out to the Burundian Embassy in Riyadh, which allegedly referred them back to the Foreign Ministry—a claim denied by embassy officials.
Human rights groups have expressed serious concerns over the effectiveness of recruitment agencies in protecting workers. FENADEB, the National Federation of Associations Engaged in Child Welfare in Burundi, reported 66 presumed victims of human trafficking between October 2023 and January 2025, including 37 cases linked to Saudi Arabia. “These women often suffer multiple forms of abuse such as coercion, threats, and physical violence,” said Eddy Manirakiza, a project manager at FENADEB.
Government Response: Assistance and Investigations Underway
In response to the allegations, the Burundian government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding its nationals abroad. The ministry stressed that the embassy in Riyadh and Saudi authorities work closely to intervene swiftly in conflicts between workers and employers.
“Where difficulties arise, the embassy acts promptly in coordination with Saudi authorities. To date, every individual facing challenges has received effective assistance,” the ministry’s statement said.
Regarding the isolated case of a female Burundian who died in Saudi Arabia, the ministry said a thorough investigation will be conducted in collaboration with relevant authorities to clarify the circumstances.
Since the signing of the labor mobility agreement, over 13,900 Burundians from 47 accredited recruitment agencies have benefited from the program, according to Foreign Minister Albert Shingiro. Workers who have completed their contracts have returned with dignity, awaiting contract renewals or new opportunities.
The ministry also noted regular inspections of recruitment agencies to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and protect workers’ interests.
Contrasting Realities and Ongoing Challenges
Despite official assurances, human rights advocates argue that many workers remain vulnerable, particularly those who migrated before the current monitoring system was established. Recruitment agencies, numbering 27 nationwide, have been criticized for lack of follow-up on workers, especially upon their return.
“Many women live in precarious conditions and hesitate to file complaints due to ignorance of their contract terms and the false hope of improving their lives,” said Manirakiza of FENADEB.
In March, coinciding with International Women’s Day, the National Observatory for the Fight Against Transnational Crime (ONLCT Où est ton frère?) called on the Burundian government to intensify oversight of labor placement agencies amid rising concerns over human trafficking. Prime Mbarubukeye, ONLCT’s legal representative, highlighted that in countries like Saudi Arabia, some recruitment agencies prioritize financial gain over the safety and fair treatment of migrant women and girls, calling for increased vigilance to protect vulnerable workers abroad.
International reports have also documented cases of trafficking among Burundian women in Gulf countries, with the US Trafficking in Persons Report noting hundreds receiving consular assistance and repatriation from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait between 2020 and 2022.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs concluded by urging TV5 Monde to publish its formal denial through the same channels, emphasizing the government’s dedication to transparency and protection of its citizens abroad.
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