Vianney Ndayisaba, president of the Association for the Fight Against Unemployment and Torture in Burundi (Aluchoto), held a press conference on Saturday, August 22, 2026, to address recent fires in Bujumbura. The Aluchoto president expressed compassion for all victims of the incidents, which damaged commercial galleries known as "Ndayizamba" and "Le Parisien" in Bujumbura. Ndayisaba's address noted the impact of these events on the community and the nation's image. His statements showed the urgency of government action to prevent further occurrences and support those affected, emphasizing the need for full solutions to the challenges posed by these destructive events.
Demands for Government Intervention
During the press conference, Vianney Ndayisaba stated that if the recent fires were accidental, the Burundian state must promptly implement preventive measures to avert future catastrophes. He also asserted that if criminal activity caused the fires, thorough investigations are necessary to identify the perpetrators and bring them before the competent courts, ensuring justice for those affected. Ndayisaba suggested that the state should establish support measures to assist the victims affected by these incidents, providing much-needed relief and aid during their recovery. He stressed the importance of a swift and decisive response, regardless of the cause, to mitigate the immediate suffering and prevent long-term economic and social repercussions.
The Aluchoto president further noted that the Burundian government has lost valuable taxpayers as a consequence of the fires, impacting the nation's economic base. Ndayisaba specifically requested that the Burundian government professionalize its civil protection services. This professionalization, he explained, should include equipping these services with quality equipment to enable real-time intervention during such emergencies, thereby enhancing their capacity to respond effectively to future incidents. Such an investment, he argued, is key for safeguarding lives and property across the country.
Economic and Investment Impact
Vianney Ndayisaba stated that incidents such as the recent fires present significant barriers to attracting foreign investors to Burundi. He emphasized that such phenomena could deter external interest, particularly in the context of the nation's ambitious Vision 2040-2060. This long-term development plan aims to transform Burundi's economic landscape and elevate its global standing, envisioning a future of prosperity and stability. Ndayisaba's comments noted concerns that a perception of instability or inadequate infrastructure, exacerbated by recurring incidents like the fires, could undermine efforts to achieve these strategic investment goals. The Aluchoto president stressed the importance of addressing these issues to safeguard Burundi's economic future and its appeal to international capital, ensuring that the country remains an attractive destination for investment and growth. He showed that a stable environment, free from the threats of such destructive events, is fundamental for realizing the nation's development aspirations.
Improving Civil Protection Services
Vianney Ndayisaba also suggested that the Burundian state seek assistance from its international partners to enhance civil protection capabilities. He proposed raising awareness among the Burundian population to encourage contributions towards the acquisition of necessary equipment for these services, fostering a sense of collective responsibility. Ndayisaba emphasized that such collaborative efforts are vital for improving the country's emergency response infrastructure, creating a more resilient system capable of handling various crises. He noted that international cooperation and community engagement are key pillars for building strong civil protection mechanisms.
The Aluchoto president further affirmed the Burundian population's readiness to contribute to the revitalization of the civil protection service. He stated that this public willingness is contingent upon clear political will and the establishment of a transparent mechanism by the state for such contributions, ensuring accountability and trust. Ndayisaba's remarks showed a perceived public desire to support improved civil protection, provided there is effective governmental leadership and a clear path for engagement, allowing citizens to actively participate in strengthening national emergency preparedness.
Insurance Sector Accountability
Vianney Ndayisaba called for increased professionalism within the insurance sector. He noted that some cases involving fire damage can extend for four to five years, causing prolonged distress for victims who are already grappling with significant losses. The Aluchoto president stated that certain insurance companies appear to prioritize their own interests rather than those of the affected individuals, leading to delays and dissatisfaction. Ndayisaba's remarks showed a need for more efficient and victim-focused processes from these firms following incidents such as the recent fires in Bujumbura. He urged the sector to adopt practices that ensure timely and fair compensation, thereby alleviating the burden on victims and restoring confidence in insurance services.