Andika Magazine

26/12/2025

Women Dialogue by CARE and FVS Highlights the Need to Strengthen Women’s Leadership in Decision-Making

A high-level dialogue panel on “Women’s Participation in Decision-Making” was held on December 24, 2025, at the Royal Palace Hotel in Bujumbura, bringing together political, religious, community and civil society actors. Organized by CARE Burundi in partnership with FVS Amie des Enfants, the event attracted a diverse audience of young people, local leaders and institutional representatives to assess women’s representation in decision-making bodies and propose concrete avenues for stronger inclusion in governance.

The panel featured key voices engaged in advancing women’s leadership, including Nissedor Nkurunziza, Head of the Mukenyezi Urashoboye Project at CARE Burundi; Ephemie Mbonyingingo, representative of the IFB women’s movement within the UPRONA party; Valérie Mpawenayo from the religious organization CINEB; Marie Concessa Barubike, Coordinator of AFRABU; Marie Fidès Nzitonda, representative of women within the Bashingantahe institution; and Chantal Bajinyura, Secretary of the sector of elected women at the communal level.

Presenting recent data, Marie Concessa Barubike revealed that women’s representation in decision-making bodies in Burundi increased from 17 percent in 2016 to 32.52 percent in 2025. While acknowledging this progress, she stressed that the pace remains slow and called for stronger mechanisms to ensure women’s full inclusion in leadership and governance structures.

Panelists also highlighted persistent barriers limiting women’s access to decision-making positions. Nissedor Nkurunziza and other speakers pointed to financial constraints, deeply rooted cultural norms, and appointment systems in certain institutions that do not always favor gender balance. Participants deplored the fact that in many appointed bodies, women remain underrepresented despite their proven competence.

Several practical recommendations emerged from the discussions. Participants proposed including candidates’ photographs on ballots during local elections, particularly for hill chiefs, to help illiterate voters make informed choices and prevent others from voting on their behalf. Religious representatives urged church leaders to actively promote women’s leadership by recalling inspiring female figures cited in biblical texts and emphasizing that women, too, are called to positions of responsibility.

Nissedor Nkurunziza further called on organizations that mobilize women to vote and run for office to begin awareness-raising efforts well in advance, allowing women sufficient time to prepare and build self-confidence. She also underscored the responsibility of women already in leadership, noting that “those who have succeeded must become role models and sources of inspiration for others.”

The dialogue concluded in an open and constructive atmosphere, with a question-and-answer session that allowed both men and women to share reflections, concerns and suggestions on the challenges and solutions related to women’s participation in decision-making processes.

23/12/2025

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23/12/2025

To our valued partners, customers, and employees, we wish you a and a filled with joy, peace, and fulfillment. Your support means the world to us.

As we embrace the spirit of the season and look ahead to 2026, the entire team at Andika Magazine and Andika Solutions
sends heartfelt greetings to our readers, followers, partners, and clients.

May this festive season bring warmth, hope, and happiness to your homes, and may the coming year open doors to new opportunities, growth, and shared success.

Thank you for your trust, collaboration, and unwavering support. You are at the heart of our journey.

From ours to yours, Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year 2026!

23/12/2025

From December 23 to 31, 2025, Andika Magazine publishes a curated throwback series highlighting its most engaging posts of the year, while expressing its gratitude to clients and partners through select reposts.

🔙 Throwback | Bancobu.SM Goes Global with Instant Digital Transfers

On August 1, 2025, the Commercial Bank of Burundi (BANCOBU) marked a major milestone in its digital transformation journey with the official launch of instant international money transfers via BANCOBU eNoti.

Developed in collaboration with Thunes, the new service enables customers holding foreign currency accounts to send and receive money instantly across 48 countries—spanning 17 African countries, 30 in , and .

Thunes’ representative, Mr. Obey Itai Domingo, highlighted how the platform connects banks directly to global mobile wallets such as M-Pesa and Orange Money, eliminating intermediaries and ensuring faster, more secure, and affordable transactions in compliance with international standards.

Speaking at the launch, Ms. Trinitas Girukwishaka emphasized the service’s human impact—particularly for families depending on support from relatives abroad—while reinforcing Bancobu.SM’s commitment to financial inclusion, customer proximity, and innovation.

From a regulatory standpoint, Mr. Hubert Nduwimana, Director of Payment Systems at BRB, encouraged financial institutions to fully embrace digital payments, noting their role in enhancing security, reducing cash dependency, fighting fraud, and expanding financial access—even in rural communities.

The highlight of the event was a live demonstration, with successful transfers executed to , , and , followed by a video testimonial from a satisfied customer in , .

Bancobu.SM announced plans to expand the service to additional countries and roll out new features, including digital savings products and simplified loan solutions—further positioning the bank at the forefront of ’s digital banking evolution.

Read more https://andikamagazine.net/bancobu-launches-instant-international-money-transfers-via-enoti/

23/12/2025

Jimmy Ndihokubwayo is a young Burundian young with disabilities. Today, he is transforming the conversation on inclusion in Burundi. Drawing from his own experience living with a physical disability, Jimmy Ndihokubwayo is positioning disability as a driver of economic growth. Through Community Rise and its flagship initiatives, he is working to ensure that people with disabilities are no longer left behind in education, work, and entrepreneurship.

Read 👉 https://andikamagazine.net/jimmy-ndihokubwayo-is-turning-disability-inclusion-into-economic-opportunity-in-burundi/

After completing the The Hubert H Humphrey Fellowship Program in the United States, he returned to and redesigned Tabitha Community in Action (formerly), rebranding it as Community Rise with a strong focus on social justice and equitable economic development. “Through Community Rise, I adapt inclusive principles to our local context, with the Voice+ Project emerging as one of the first concrete expressions of that vision,” he explains. He adds, “I deeply thank my Supervisors Tony Willis and Jazmin Anderson at LEAP and Michigan State University Professors who helped me while designing Community Rise.”

23/12/2025

🔙 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 | 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 & 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞

At just 23, Elie Bubuya was already positioning himself at the intersection of technology and agriculture, determined to reshape one of Burundi’s most vital sectors through artificial intelligence.

Born in Ngozi, Bubuya is a young Burundian innovator and co-founder of Hyphen Tech, a startup focused on developing digital solutions tailored to local challenges. While the company initially supported entrepreneurs with digital tools, its attention soon shifted to agriculture, the backbone of Burundi’s economy, where the potential impact of AI was impossible to ignore.

That vision led to the creation of AgriHyphen AI, an AI-powered platform designed to help farmers diagnose plant diseases, improve productivity, and reduce post-harvest losses. By analyzing crop images and providing real-time recommendations, the platform enables farmers to take timely action and protect their yields.

Early results were telling. Potato farmers using the platform reported reduced crop losses and improved productivity, with some cooperatives significantly cutting losses caused by plant diseases. These outcomes highlighted the practical value of AI in a sector long constrained by outdated techniques and limited access to innovation.

Bubuya’s journey, from discovering artificial intelligence through online videos to applying it in real-world agricultural settings, reflects a broader narrative emerging across the continent: young African innovators are developing homegrown solutions to local problems.

Looking back, this story remains a compelling reminder that technological innovation, when grounded in local realities, can play a decisive role in advancing food security, economic growth, and sustainable development in and beyond.

Read more https://andikamagazine.net/elie-bubuyas-hyphen-tech-is-transforming-agriculture-and-business-in-burundi-through-ai/

21/12/2025

Youth Debate Plastic Pollution and Climate Action at the University of Burundi

On December 20, 2025, EDUC MEDIAS held a youth training and debate on the environment and climate change at the University of Burundi’s Mutanga Campus, under the project “Strengthening Youth Engagement in Environmental Debate,” with support from SYMUF–Maison de la Presse and IDEA.

Debating the motion “Is the fight against plastic pollution in Burundi an individual or a State responsibility?” students exchanged strong arguments, with teams from the University of Lake Tanganyika standing out.

Opening the session, Thierry Nizigiyimana, Head of the University of Burundi Environmental Club, urged participants to engage openly and patiently for “fruitful and constructive debates” on plastic pollution.

At the closing, Richard Ndayishimiye of EDUC MEDIAS said the organization would “continue collaborating with university clubs across Burundi to develop critical thinking and sustainable solutions among young people.”

SYMUF Director General Aubert Mwibakeca highlighted the regional vision of the initiative, stating: “We believe durable solutions come from local dynamics. Our ambition is to prepare African youth to debate with competence, confidence and responsibility.”

Representing the Ministry of Communication and Media, Jean Claude Nizigiyimana stressed that “educating young people on environmental issues is a key strategy to protect our planet,” while warning against climate misinformation and calling for the emergence of youth environmental ambassadors.

19/12/2025

Bancobu.SM 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝟔𝟓𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲, 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐀𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

The Commercial Bank of Burundi (BANCOBU) solemnly celebrated its 65th anniversary on December 18, 2025, during a grand gala held at the Atrium Restaurant in Bujumbura. The event brought together more than 600 guests to honor the institution’s legacy and outline its future ambitions. The celebration crowned six months of internal commemorations that began on June 13, 2025.

The ceremony paid tribute to generations of leaders, employees, and partners whose dedication and sense of responsibility have helped consolidate Bancobu.SM as a pillar of Burundi’s banking system. It also served as an opportunity for the bank to express gratitude to its customers for their continued trust over the years.

Earlier in the evening, Bancobu.SM's Chief Executive Officer Ms. Trinitas Girukwishaka welcomed a distinguished audience that included the Minister of Finance, members of Parliament, ambassadors, representatives of partner banks, employees, clients, and other invited guests. In her remarks, she praised the courage and perseverance of the men and women who have guided BANCOBU over six and a half decades. “They all shared a common objective: to grow Bancobu.SM and anchor it in Burundi’s development,” she said.

Ms. Girukwishaka reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to rigor, transparency, and strategic vision, while adapting to changes in the banking sector, technological advances, and the evolving needs of clients. “Founded in 1960, Bancobu.SM has, over the years, established itself as a major player in the national banking system. Through its diversified financial services, professionalism, and capacity for innovation, the bank has contributed significantly to financing the economy, promoting savings, and strengthening financial inclusion,” she underlined.

She further emphasized the institution’s ambition to remain a driving force in Burundi’s economic transformation. “Building on our tradition of excellence, Bancobu.SM will continue to play a leading role in the country’s economic transformation by focusing on organizational restructuring, innovation, digitalization, and service quality,” Ms. Girukwishaka stated.

Before extending end-of-year holiday wishes to all guests, the Chief Executive Officer expressed her gratitude to the State, the Bank of the Republic of Burundi (BRB), shareholders, governance bodies, employees, and the company that constructed the Building. The building was described as a multifunctional complex housing offices, shops, warehouses, conference rooms, a restaurant, and a thermal pool.

Speaking on behalf of the Government, the Minister of Finance, Budget, and Digital Economy, Dr. Alain Ndikumana, underscored the strategic role of banks in achieving national development objectives. “The Government of is undertaking reforms aimed at revitalizing the financial sector and strengthening economic security, in order to achieve the vision of Burundi as an emerging country by 2040 and a developed country by 2060,” he said. He emphasized that banks have a crucial role to play, particularly “through financing agro-food processing plants, an essential lever for value creation and job creation.”

The Minister congratulated Bancobu.SM on its “remarkable journey” and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to continued close collaboration with the banking sector, before wishing all attendees a .

Prior to the convivial reception, marked by the sharing of drinks, dinner, and the cutting of the , participants viewed a commemorative documentary and attended the presentation of a book retracing the key milestones in Bancobu.SM’s evolution. These moments highlighted the bank’s progressive transformation and its ambition to become a group of companies capable of meeting regional market challenges and expanding internationally.

The evening also featured a recognition segment during which the editorial team behind the commemorative book was honored, and certificates of merit were awarded to long-serving employees, clients, and partners.

Note that Bancobu.SM currently has 65 operating branches and service counters nationwide, including the V.I.P. City Branch housed in the new Building, recently inaugurated by Head of State Evariste Ndayishimiye.

19/12/2025

President Ndayishimiye Hails Odette Nsengiyumva After African Cycling Honor

Burundi’s Head of State, Evariste Ndayishimiye, has congratulated Burundian cyclist Odette Nsengiyumva following her recent recognition as Best African Cyclist, an award presented by the Confederation of African Cycling (CAC).

The accolade, officially titled the “Best African Cyclist Cup,” was awarded during a ceremony held in Kigali, Rwanda, in recognition of Nsengiyumva’s outstanding performances in both national and international competitions throughout 2025.

In a message shared on his official platform, President Ndayishimiye praised the young athlete’s achievements, describing her medals as symbols of honor earned through dedication and talent, and highlighting the pride she brings to Burundi.

The President also emphasized the importance of youth empowerment through talent and discipline, noting that Nsengiyumva’s success reflects the growing potential of Burundian youth on the continental stage.

Odette Nsengiyumva has emerged as one of Africa’s leading female cyclists, strengthening Burundi’s presence in international cycling and contributing to the country’s rising profile in the sport.




📸: ARR

18/12/2025

The Holy Spirit Voices Choir that sings in the Sunday’s evening English Mass at the Most Sacred of Jesus Chapel (Lycée du Saint Esprit) has finally released the Christmas 🎄 🎅 🤶 song.

Tune in it throughout this 👉 link: https://youtu.be/e567iU4lMD8

#

"Umukiza araje" A Christmass song from Holy Spirit Voices Choir/ BurundiCREDITS_______________________________Lyrics maker: Nduwayo IldephonseMusic maker: Nd...

18/12/2025

NDINKABANDI Project: Baseline Study Findings Highlight the Urgent Need for Greater Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Burundian Society

The Consortium CARE International Burundi , COPED-Burundi and RCPHB (Réseau des Centres des Personnes Handicapées du Burundi), with financial support from Union Européenne au Burundi, organized on Monday, December 15, 2025 at the Royal Palace Hotel, a workshop to present findings of the baseline studies of the NDINKABANDI (“I am like the others) project. The initiative aims to strengthen capacities of civil society organizations for a more inclusive society in .

The two consultants who conducted the studies, Dr. Canésius Ndayikeza and Zacharie Nzeyimana, presented the main findings in the presence of different stakeholders including representatives from Ministry of Interior, Community Development, and Public Security, Ministry of Justice, Human Rights and Gender , staff from implementing partners and leaders of organizations and centers of people with disabilities and their networks.

The NDINKABANDI project is implemented in five communes resulting from the new administrative division: , , , and for a period of 18 months. It’s main objective is to contribute to the social, economic and political inclusion of persons with disabilities in .

The first study, presented by Dr. Canésius Ndayikeza, analyzed the ration of people with disabilities who can live independently. The study focused also on their participation in community activities , economic transactions such as buying and selling, access to education and vocational training, intimate and romantic relationships, interactions with community or local authorities, freedom to engage in social relations and interactions, access to commonly used services and products, and access to health care. Currently estimated at 13.3%, this proportion is expected to reach 30%within 18 months, as a result of the project's achievements.

The study also highlights major challenges to the socio-professional integration of persons with disabilities, including the low level of professionalization of graduates from training centers, the lack of formally recognized qualifications, limited access to financing, lack of self-confidence, and difficulties in accessing assistive devices.

With regard to governance and political representation, the findings are particularly alarming. The target for increasing the proportion of representatives of persons with disabilities in high-level decision-making bodies set at 30% is ambitious, while the baseline showed that this indicator is at 0%. In previous elections, persons with disabilities won zero seats in the parliamentary assembly elections, senators, communal councils and hill councils. In addition, most political infrastructures remain inaccessible to persons with disabilities.

In response, the project intended to support the disability movement in in their efforts to advocate for their rights in order. to ensure the effective implementation of existing policies and strategies aimed at improving the well-being and quality of life for persons with disabilities.

The second study, presented by Zacharie Nzeyimana, focused on the analysis of the state of implementation of laws, policies and advocacy strategies in favor of persons with disabilities in Burundi. The project aims also to strengthen the capacities, skills, networking and professionalization of civil society organizations working in the field of disability inclusion, while promoting job creation and professional integration for persons with disabilities, with particular attention to women and young people.

Among the strengths identified in relation to disability-related policies are the availability of personnel trained in the management of physical, sensory and motor disabilities, the support of non-governmental donors for inclusive education, growing social interaction between so-called “able-bodied” children and children with disabilities, and successful community integration for some visually impaired, hearing-impaired and physically disabled children.

The weaknesses include limited awareness on laws and legal texts in favor of persons with disabilities, difficulties in applying pedagogical achievements, challenges related to infrastructure accessibility, inadequate training standards, inspection and supervision systems, and the absence of reliable data on children with disabilities.

The threats identified include the reduction of international fundings , cuts in budgets allocated to the disability sector, complex institutional arrangements at the governmental level, and delays in the ratification of certain international and African instruments. Required technical documents include the urban planning and development master plan, the certificate of conformity, the urban planning certificate, the building permit, the architectural design, and the obligations of the project owner.

A scan of international, regional and national legal texts shows that further efforts are needed in terms of ownership by persons with disabilities, dissemination of laws, and advocacy to address related systemic barriers. Advocacy pathways have been identified but remain under development and must be pursued through the project.

Key recommendations include strengthening adherence to international instruments, ensuring effective implementation of national laws, improving accessibility and vocational rehabilitation, producing more reliable data, evidence and statistics, raising awareness on research and the fight against stigma, promoting access to employment for persons with disabilities, and strengthening monitoring, evaluation and accountability mechanisms.

On behalf of the government, Constance Gihwahwa, The Director of the NGO Coordination Department at the Ministry of Interior, Community Development, and Public Security, expressed deep gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the completion of the baseline study. She emphasized that this restitution represents a crucial step, providing a clear snapshot of the current situation, the challenges to be addressed, and the opportunities to improve the living conditions of persons with disabilities. She highlighted the persistent barriers to access to basic social services and economic opportunities, as well as the importance of community awareness to combat stereotypes and discrimination. “The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening coordination among government actors, partners and civil society”, she declared.

At the end of the discussions, participants formulated several recommendations, including strengthening links with chief executive officers to ensure that persons with disabilities also benefit from internships and employment opportunities on an equal footing with others; sensitizing competent authorities to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities in governance bodies during upcoming elections or appointments; encouraging their integration into existing organizations and associations; and, within the ongoing project, ensuring the inclusion of other types of disabilities, particularly persons who are blind, deaf or have specific needs, for a more inclusive approach.

18/12/2025

Ornella Munezero attended the 3rd Annual UN–civil society dialogue on in ,

Ornella Munezero, Mandela Washington Fellow 2025, attended the 3rd Annual UN–Civil Society Dialogue on Peacebuilding at the Palais des Nations, on December 10-11, 2025, joining United Nations officials and civil society leaders in high-level discussions on inclusive and sustainable peacebuilding.

The dialogue centered on how the United Nations can strengthen the meaningful participation of young people throughout the peacebuilding cycle, from the design of peace frameworks to their implementation and evaluation. Participants stressed that sidelining youth undermines the credibility and effectiveness of peace efforts, particularly in conflict-affected societies where young people make up the majority.

Reflecting on the discussions, Munezero emphasized the urgency of youth inclusion, stating, “To ignore youth is to ignore the majority.” She also highlighted the need for peacebuilding strategies to be grounded in community realities, calling for better alignment between funding and local priorities.

The forum further examined how to identify real needs on the ground to ensure resources support projects with tangible and lasting impact. Participants stressed the importance of valuing and supporting local organizations, noting that their deep community roots position them to lead sustainable peacebuilding initiatives.

Held at the heart of global diplomacy, the 3rd Annual UN–Civil Society Dialogue served as a reminder of the importance of cooperation, dialogue, and inclusive diplomacy in building durable and lasting peace.