Burundi commemorated World Press Freedom Day on Monday, May 4, 2025, with celebrations centered around the theme « Façonner un avenir en paix » (Shaping a future in peace). The Ministry responsible for communication reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a media landscape that is free, pluralistic, and secure. This commitment aligns with ongoing efforts to ensure journalists can operate without undue restrictions. The observance noted Burundi's stated support for fundamental principles of press freedom.
Government's Vision for Media
Shaping a better future in peace requires strong, credible, and responsible media, alongside a renewed commitment from all stakeholders, according to Burundian officials. The Ministry of Communication and Media commended the "remarkable work" of journalists who, despite difficulties, continue to inform, educate, and raise awareness. Reforms enacted demonstrate a clear will to strengthen an environment conducive to the practice of journalism in Burundi. Mireille Kanyange, President of the Maison de la presse, stated, "Aujourd’hui, il est important de noter qu’aucun journaliste n’est emprisonné en raison de l’exercice de son métier, ce qui constitue un indicateur positif de l’évolution de l’environnement médiatique dans notre pays." She added, "façonner un avenir en paix, c’est refuser la désinformation, lutter contre les discours de haine et privilégier un journalisme éthique et professionnel." Kanyange emphasized that "Le journalisme est un pilier de la démocratie. Il doit rester au service de la vérité, de la paix et de l’intérêt général."
Progress and Challenges
Burundi has demonstrated an encouraging dynamic in recent years by strengthening the normative framework for the right to information, freedom of expression, and the press. This progress is reflected in the current media environment, where no journalist is imprisoned for practicing their profession, indicating a positive evolution. Despite these advancements, the media sector continues to face several challenges. These include insufficient structured financing and support mechanisms for media outlets. Additionally, the sector grapples with a lack of adequate social protection for journalists. There is also a recognized need for an objective assessment of journalism practice to further professionalize the field.
Voices from Media Stakeholders
Jean Claude Nizigiyimana, Assistant Minister of Communication and Media, noted the government's perspective. He stated, "The Minister of Communication and Media commends the remarkable work of journalists who, despite difficulties, continue to inform, educate, and raise awareness among the population." Nizigiyimana added that the Minister "reaffirms her commitment to supporting a free, pluralistic, and secure media environment." Peter Wallet, Coordinator of the Maison pour la paix de l’Unesco au Burundi, noted Burundi's recent progress, observing, "Burundi has been engaged for several years in an encouraging dynamic of strengthening the normative framework regarding the right to information, freedom of expression, and the press." Wallet emphasized that these reforms demonstrate a clear commitment to fostering an environment conducive to the practice of journalism in Burundi. Stakeholders collectively agreed that shaping a future in peace necessitates rejecting disinformation, combating hate speech, and prioritizing ethical and professional journalism. They further stressed that journalism serves as a pillar of democracy, requiring it to remain dedicated to truth, peace, and the public interest.
