Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye, also the current Chairman of the African Union, held audiences at the Presidential Palace in Gitega on Thursday, June 4, 2026. The engagements included discussions with a World Food Programme (WFP) envoy. Nancy Ninette Mutoni, spokesperson for the President of the Republic, stated that President Ndayishimiye expressed satisfaction with WFP's contribution to food security in Burundi during the meeting. His remarks showed the importance of WFP's ongoing efforts in the nation. The President's schedule reflected Burundi's continued diplomatic and humanitarian engagements, noting the nation's commitment to regional stability and the well-being of its citizens. These high-level meetings at the Presidential Palace in Gitega emphasized the collaborative spirit Burundi fosters with international partners and regional bodies.
WFP Contributions and Farewell
Jean Noël Gentile, the outgoing representative of the World Food Programme (WFP) in Burundi, presented his farewells to President Evariste Ndayishimiye. The WFP's work in Burundi has focused on critical areas, including providing support for school canteen programs. These initiatives aim to ensure that students have access to regular meals, contributing to their nutritional well-being and attendance in educational settings across the country. Additionally, the WFP has supported boarding facilities, further aiding vulnerable populations by providing essential sustenance and shelter. The WFP's contribution has been instrumental in addressing food insecurity challenges within Burundi. During their meeting, President Ndayishimiye acknowledged Mr. Gentile's tenure, congratulating him on his achievements during his time in the country and recognizing the significant impact of the WFP's programs under his leadership. The Burundian President also conveyed his well wishes to Mr. Gentile for success in his future responsibilities, expressing gratitude for his dedication to improving the lives of Burundians.
ICGLR Cooperation and Vision
President Evariste Ndayishimiye also met with Dr. Mubita Luwaberwa, the recently appointed Executive Secretary of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR). Dr. Luwaberwa presented his roadmap for the organization and sought guidance from the Burundian President. Their discussion focused on strengthening cooperation between the member states of the Great Lakes region, a key aspect for fostering peace and development in the area. The new ICGLR Executive Secretary expressed his ambition to promote regional economic activities further. He specifically mentioned trade across Lake Tanganyika as an area for development, recognizing its potential to boost cross-border commerce and improve livelihoods. Dr. Luwaberwa's visit showed the ICGLR's commitment to regional stability and economic integration under its new leadership, signaling a renewed focus on practical, impactful initiatives. The meeting provided an opportunity for President Ndayishimiye to engage directly with the ICGLR's strategic direction and offer Burundi's perspective on key regional priorities.
Presidential Guidance and Support
President Ndayishimiye reaffirmed Burundi's support for Dr. Luwaberwa's mission, offering advice and orientations during their discussion. The Burundian Head of State expressed appreciation for the ICGLR Executive Secretary's ambitions, promising his full support for the proposed initiatives. Dr. Luwaberwa's presentation of his roadmap for the organization included a focus on strengthening cooperation among member states in the Great Lakes region, emphasizing the need for collective action to address common challenges. The new Executive Secretary also outlined his ambition to promote regional economic activities, specifically noting trade across Lake Tanganyika as a key area for development. This focus aligns with Burundi's own economic development goals and its strategic location within the Great Lakes region. President Ndayishimiye's engagement with Dr. Luwaberwa provided an opportunity to discuss the ICGLR's strategic direction and showed Burundi's commitment to regional stability and economic integration, ensuring that the new leadership has the necessary backing from key regional players. The President’s guidance is expected to help shape the ICGLR’s agenda in the coming period.
