Burundi

Introduction to Burundi

The Republic of Burundi (formerly Urundi) is a small nation in the Great Lakes region of Africa. It is bordered by Rwanda on the north, Tanzania on the south and east, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the west. Although the country is landlocked, much of its western border is adjacent to Lake Tanganyika. The country's name derives from its Bantu language, Kirundi.

Geographically isolated, facing population pressures and having sparse resources, Burundi is one of the poorest and most conflict-ridden countries in Africa and in the world. Its small size belies the magnitude of the problems it faces in reconciling the claims of the Tutsi minority with the Hutu majority.

Cultural notes about Burundi

The culture of Burundi is related to that of neighbouring countries and its prominence has been limited by the civil war. The Master Drummers of Burundi are the most famous performing group from the nation, and football (soccer) is the most popular sport.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Burundi

You are advised against all travel to Bujumbura Rural province, on the outskirts of the capital city, where clashes between the National Liberation Forces (FNL) and the government continue to occur. The FNL is the only rebel group outside the peace process concluded in 2002 between the government and other rebel groups to end the 10-year civil war. In May 2005, the FNL indicated that it may be ready to stop fighting and resume peace negotiations with the government. Rebel movements from the Democratic Republic of Congo into Burundi have also been reported.

Carjacking, purse snatching, pickpocketing, robbery, and theft from vehicles are common. Assaults occur against people walking or jogging alone, particularly on roads around Lake Tanganyika. Landmines have exploded in areas frequented by travellers. A curfew is in effect throughout the country. Please check with local authorities for the latest information.

With the conclusion of a peace agreement, the situation in Burundi has started to stabilize following a decade of civil war. Nevertheless, no part of Burundi can be considered secure. Banditry is common. While security has improved recently in some areas of the country, conditions can rapidly deteriorate with little or no warning.

On August 26, 2004, Burundi reopened its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). On August 16, 2004, Burundi had closed its border with the DRC and had tightened security around the airport in Bujumbura. The closure had followed the massacre of approximately 160 Tutsi Congolese refugees at a refugee camp in Gatumba, Burundi, approximately five kilometres from the border. A Burundian rebel group, the National Liberation Forces (FLN), had claimed responsibility, but the UN report into the massacre concluded that other actors were potentially involved.

Periodic closure of the border between Burundi and the DRC can occur without notice. There is a high risk of kidnapping near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Westerners appear to be targeted.

On July 15, 2003, following six days of intense fighting in the capital, the United Nations withdrew its non-essential personnel from Bujumbura. Attacks and ambushes by rebel forces operating throughout the country occur frequently, in and around Bujumbura, including the suburbs of Kinama and Kamenge. Humanitarian workers, including foreigners, have been victims of violent incidents, including armed robbery and murder, by armed groups.

You should select local accommodation and transportation wisely.

There are threats to all aircraft flying in to Bujumbura airport.