Ambassade du Burundi à Dar Es Salaam Diplomatie
On 9 July 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Burundi in Dar es Salaam hosted a high-level commemorative ceremony marking the 64th Anniversary of the Independence of Burundi.
The event brought together a distinguished audience, including representatives of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to Tanzania, representatives of regional and international organizations, members of the Burundian community residing in Tanzania, civil society leaders, private sector representatives, and members of religious institutions.
Held eight days after Burundi’s official Independence Day on 1 July, the ceremony was graced by the presence of HE Hon. Dr. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of the United Republic of Tanzania, who served as Guest of Honor.
Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the celebration, the Amagaba cultural troupe delivered an outstanding performance showcasing Burundi’s rich cultural heritage through a traditional dance performed by female artists, accompanied by young men playing traditional instruments.
Ambassador’s Remarks: Resilience, Vision, and Strong Bilateral Relations
In her welcoming remarks, the Ambassador of the Republic of Burundi to Tanzania expressed sincere appreciation to the Guest of Honor for attending the celebration and conveyed special gratitude to HE Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, for the support extended in ensuring his participation. She emphasized that this gesture reflects the deep-rooted friendship, solidarity, and cooperation that continues to unite the two sisterly nations.
Historical Legacy and National Identity
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, the Ambassador recalled that Burundi achieved independence on 1 July 1962, marking the restoration of its political sovereignty and reaffirming its national dignity, identity, and right to self-determination. She paid tribute to the heroes and heroines of the independence struggle, highlighting in particular the visionary leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Louis Rwagasore.
Acknowledging the challenges Burundi has experienced throughout its history, including periods of division and conflict, the Ambassador underscored the remarkable resilience of the Burundian people and their continued commitment to unity, peace, reconciliation, and sustainable development.
Burundi’s Development Vision and Investment Opportunities
Looking towards the future, the Ambassador highlighted Burundi’s ambitious development agenda aimed at transforming the country into an emerging economy by 2040 and achieving developed country status by 2060.
She stressed that the realization of these objectives requires the collective efforts of all Burundians, both at home and abroad, as well as strengthened partnerships with regional and international partners.
She highlighted the various measures undertaken by Burundi to create a conducive environment for investment and pave the way for increased investments, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, infrastructure, and energy. She further underscored Burundi’s strategic position within the East African Community (EAC) and COMESA, its youthful population, and its abundant natural resources as important assets that enhance the country’s investment potential.
As part of efforts to strengthen Burundi’s investment climate and promote economic transformation, she highlighted several strategic initiatives, including:
- The modernization of the Port of Bujumbura;
- The strengthening of regional connectivity and energy infrastructure;
- The development of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project connecting Burundi and Tanzania.
Deepening Tanzania–Burundi Relations
The Ambassador underscored Tanzania’s strategic importance as Burundi’s principal gateway to international markets through the Port of Dar es Salaam and the Central Corridor. She commended Tanzania’s longstanding solidarity with Burundi, including its role in hosting Burundian refugees and supporting peacebuilding efforts.
She also welcomed the growing economic cooperation between the two countries, reflected in increasing investments by Burundian enterprises in Tanzania and Tanzanian companies in Burundi.
Guest of Honour’s Address: A Testimony to an Enduring Partnership
In his address, H.E. Hon. Dr. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo extended warm congratulations to Burundi on the occasion of its 64th Anniversary of Independence. He noted that the milestone provided an opportunity to reflect on the achievements made in advancing freedom, justice, peace, and development.
Highlighting the depth of Tanzania–Burundi relations, the Minister emphasized:
- Historical solidarity: The strong and cordial ties between the two nations, built on the vision, determination, and friendship of their founding leaders, as well as mutual respect and shared values.
- Strong legal framework: The numerous agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering areas such as trade, investment, energy, and infrastructure cooperation.
Growing economic partnership: The Minister highlighted the steady increase of Burundian investments in Tanzania, including the establishment of ITRACOM Fertilizers Limited, as a reflection of the strengthening economic ties between the two countries. He attributed this positive development to H.E. President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment, alongside the active engagement of both countries’ diplomatic representatives.
Conclusion
The commemorative ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Burundi and Tanzania. The remarkable turnout of guests and the diverse representation of diplomatic missions, government officials, international organizations, and other stakeholders stood as a testimony to the strong international solidarity and goodwill towards Burundi, as well as to the Embassy’s continued efforts to promote a positive image of the country and strengthen its engagement within the community of nations.
The occasion further reaffirmed the shared determination of Burundi and Tanzania to advance regional integration, promote sustainable development, and build a future of mutual prosperity for their people.
