On Thursday, September 24, 2026, the Gitega Congress Palace hosted a plenary session directed by the President of the Senate, Gervais Ndirakobuca. During the session, the Minister of Infrastructure, Social Housing, Transport and Equipment, Egide Nijimbere, was invited to address and respond to concerns raised by senators. His appearance focused on key issues related to road projects, the future capital, and housing initiatives in Burundi, providing detailed explanations regarding the progress and challenges faced by his ministry.
Road Construction Halt Explained
Senators questioned the suspension of road construction sites, specifically mentioning the RN3, which includes the Rumonge - Nyanza-lac and Rumonge - Gitaza sections, and the RN9, covering the Gikoma - Bubanza section. The government of Burundi had sought financing from Arab banks for the 52-kilometer Rumonge-Nyanza-Lac section and the Bururi-Gakuba road. This solicitation for international financing shows the scale and ambition of these infrastructure projects. Works on the Bururi-Gakuba section have been completed, marking a significant achievement in that specific area. However, the Rumonge-Nyanza-Lac and Rumonge-Gitaza sections are not yet finished, leading to considerable public and senatorial concern.
Minister Egide Nijimbere cited financial constraints, disruptions in international financial markets, and climate change as reasons for the work stoppage. These factors have collectively impacted the ability to secure and deploy the necessary resources for ongoing construction. The government is continuing negotiations with banks for financing for these projects, an essential step towards their recommencement. These negotiations are reportedly at a satisfactory level, suggesting a potential resumption of work on the suspended road sections in the near future. Similar financial difficulties also explain the suspension of some rehabilitation works on the RN9, noting a broader challenge in infrastructure development across the country. The Minister's detailed explanation aimed to reassure senators that the government is actively working to overcome these financial hurdles and resume critical road construction.
Future Capital and Building Quality
Senators also questioned the Ministry of Infrastructure, Social Housing, Transport and Equipment's preparations for the development of Burundi's future political capital. This inquiry was framed within the context of "Vision Burundi pays émergent en 2040 et pays développé en 2060," a long-term national development strategy. Minister Egide Nijimbere confirmed that urban planning, space delimitation, and zoning for the future capital are already incorporated into planning documents for gradual implementation. This strategic foresight is key for ensuring orderly and sustainable development. He noted that several construction projects are currently underway in Gitega, demonstrating tangible progress towards establishing the new capital. These ongoing projects include the provincial office, buildings designated for various ministries, and the presidential palace, all integral components of a functional political center.
Concerns were raised by senators regarding the quality of some zonal office buildings, with reports of construction defects and water infiltration. These issues, if left unaddressed, could undermine public confidence in new infrastructure. Minister Nijimbere clarified that the construction of these zonal buildings had been entrusted to the ministry responsible for Territorial Administration, which was also responsible for their follow-up and oversight. He stated that his ministry had not received copies of reports pertaining to these zonal building works, indicating a potential communication gap between ministries. However, Minister Nijimbere affirmed that his ministry would contribute its expertise if corrections were deemed necessary for the identified quality issues, demonstrating a commitment to inter-ministerial cooperation and ensuring high construction standards for public facilities.
Social Housing Challenges Detailed
The social housing construction project in Bujumbura, specifically at the Kizingwe-Bihara and Socarti sites, has not achieved its intended progress. This shortfall in expected development has been a point of concern for both the government and the public. At the Socarti site, difficulties have arisen due to economic operators deviating from established plans, choosing to construct high-standing buildings rather than the envisioned affordable housing units. This shift in construction focus directly contradicts the project's original aim of providing accessible housing for a broader segment of the population. Meanwhile, the Kizingwe-Bihara site faces difficulties primarily related to the legal framework governing the land. This includes ongoing disagreements between the current occupants and the state, impeding development and requiring careful negotiation and resolution.
Despite these obstacles, Minister Egide Nijimbere confirmed that the social housing project has not been abandoned. This assurance is critical for stakeholders and potential beneficiaries who have been awaiting the completion of these initiatives. Authorities are actively pursuing solutions to address the identified issues and advance the initiative, demonstrating the government's commitment to overcoming these complex challenges and ultimately delivering on its promise of social housing in Bujumbura. The Minister's full update provided insight into the multi-faceted nature of infrastructure development and the government's ongoing efforts to address these critical national priorities.