The Council of Ministers convened on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the palace in Gitega, Burundi. The Head of State, Evariste Ndayishimiye, presided over the meeting. The agenda included 11 points, in addition to miscellaneous items. One of the key items discussed was the draft organic law concerning the reorganization of the Supreme Court, signaling a focus on judicial reform.
Justice Sector Reforms Detailed
The Minister of Justice, Human Rights and Gender, Alfred Ahingejeje, presented three distinct points to the Council of Ministers. Among these proposals was a draft organic law aimed at modifying organic law n°1/02 of January 23, 2021, which governs the organization and functioning of the Superior Council of the Magistracy. Minister Ahingejeje also introduced a draft law intended to modify law n°1/001 of January 29, 2000, focusing on reforms to the status of magistrates. Additionally, the minister put forward the draft organic law concerning the reorganization of the Supreme Court for consideration by the council. These legislative initiatives collectively address key aspects of Burundi's judicial system.
Economic and Administrative Decrees Presented
The Minister of the Interior, Community Development and Public Security, Léonidas Ndaruzaniye, presented a draft decree to the Council of Ministers. The proposal aimed to modify decree n°100/048 of March 12, 2019, which concerns the organization, missions, and functioning of the National Agency for the Promotion and Regulation of Cooperatives in Burundi. Subsequently, the Minister of Labour, Public Service and Social Security, Gabriel Nizigama, introduced a draft decree. This decree proposed modifications to decree n°100/178 of July 7, 2023, regarding the classification of jobs within the Burundian civil service.
The Minister of Finance, Budget and Digital Economy, Alain Ndikumana, presented two distinct points for consideration. One of these was a draft decree intended to modify decree n°100/054 of March 29, 2024, which governs the creation and management modalities of the Universal Service Fund for ICTs in Burundi. Additionally, Minister Ndikumana presented a draft decree outlining the missions, organization, and functioning of the Higher Institute of Business Management (ISGE). The Minister of Energy and Mining Resources, Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Hassan Kibeya, also presented two points, including a draft decree modifying decree n°100/184 of December 7, 2018, which addresses the missions, organization, and functioning of the Burundian Office of Mines and Quarries (OBM).
Infrastructure and International Agreements
The Minister of Energy and Mining Resources, Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Hassan Kibeya, also presented a note regarding the cold terminal situated at Melchior Ndadaye Airport. Égide Nijimbere, the Minister of Infrastructure, Social Housing, Transport and Equipment, introduced a concept note for a project focused on the valorization, renovation, and rehabilitation of the OUA quarter. Additionally, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation, Édouard Bizimana, presented a draft headquarters agreement. This agreement is proposed between the government of the Republic of Burundi and the General Secretariat of the Association of African Anti-Corruption Authorities (AAACA).
Broader Context and Implications
The Council of Ministers meeting in Gitega addressed a wide array of governmental functions, reflecting Burundi's focus on both judicial reform and administrative efficiency. The discussions covered legislative changes to the Supreme Court and the Superior Council of the Magistracy, as presented by Minister Alfred Ahingejeje. Concurrently, ministers like Léonidas Ndaruzaniye and Gabriel Nizigama introduced decrees aimed at restructuring national agencies and civil service job classifications. Alain Ndikumana and Hassan Kibeya presented proposals concerning financial mechanisms, business management, and the mining sector. The agenda also included infrastructure development at Melchior Ndadaye Airport and an international agreement with the Association of African Anti-Corruption Authorities.