On November 12, 2026, Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye received Catholic Church leaders at the State House in Bujumbura, known as 'Ntare Rushats'i'. The meeting focused on the relationship between the government and the Catholic Church, its role in the country's development, and the challenges it faces. The Church leaders expressed their concerns about the welfare of Burundian citizens and the country's development.
The meeting between President Ndayishimiye and the Church leaders came after a four-day conference with their Rwandan counterparts in Bujumbura from November 9 to 12, 2026. The conference was organized by the Association of Episcopal Conferences of Rwanda and Burundi (ACOREB). During the conference, the Church leaders discussed issues affecting both countries, including security, citizen welfare, education, and the Church's role in promoting peace.
President Ndayishimiye praised the Catholic Church's role in development, particularly in education, healthcare, and social welfare. He assured the Church leaders that peace and security prevail throughout the country and that economic challenges will be addressed through collective effort and commitment. The President also emphasized that he is the leader of all Burundians, regardless of their religious affiliation.
The Church leaders and President Ndayishimiye discussed the need for the government to engage with various groups and promote dialogue and cooperation to maintain national unity. The President promised to continue consulting with different segments of the population and to prioritize dialogue and collaboration. The meeting with Burundi's Catholic Church leaders followed a similar meeting with their Rwandan counterparts.
One of the key requests made by the Church leaders was the reopening of the border between Burundi and Rwanda, which has been closed for some time. The Church leaders argued that the closure has negatively impacted the movement of people, trade, and social interactions between the two countries. They urged the governments of both countries to intensify dialogue to improve relations and reopen the border.
The Catholic Church leaders also expressed concerns about poverty and shortages of essential goods in both countries, including food, petroleum products, and fertilizers. They called for assistance to be provided to refugees and internally displaced persons affected by ongoing conflicts in the region, particularly in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The meeting between President Ndayishimiye and the Catholic Church leaders reflects the significant role the Church plays in Burundian society and the importance of collaboration between the government and religious institutions. The discussions highlighted the need for continued dialogue and cooperation to address the country's challenges and promote peace and development.
Key points
- The Catholic Church leaders requested the reopening of the border between Burundi and Rwanda.
- President Ndayishimiye emphasized the government's commitment to dialogue and cooperation.
- The Church leaders expressed concerns about poverty and shortages of essential goods in both countries.
