WHO in dark over why Burundi expelled its staff

The World Health Organization (WHO) is in the process of evacuating four members of its staff from Burundi after they were told to leave by the government.

Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO's Africa regional head, confirmed the news at a virtual press briefing, but added that she did not know why the authorities "took this action".

Walter Kazadi Mulombo, the WHO boss in Burundi's main city of Bujumbura, and his three colleagues were declared "personae non gratae" and told to leave by this Friday.

Dr Moeti said that despite the expulsions the WHO would still collaborate with the Burundian authorities in their response to the coronavirus pandemic.