The Bagumyabanga, the youth wing of the CNDD-FDD party, organized a demonstration on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in Burunga province. The march, held on Mahwa hill in the Mahwa zone of Matana commune, expressed support for President Evariste Ndayishimiye. Participants rallied behind President Ndayishimiye's potential candidacy for the 2027 elections, showcasing the party's strong backing for his continued leadership. This significant event showed the Bagumyabanga's commitment to the ruling party's agenda and its vision for the nation's future.
Party's Support for Ndayishimiye
Sylvain Nzikoruriho, the provincial secretary of the CNDD-FDD party in Burunga, stated the recent march demonstrated the Bagumyabanga's support for President Evariste Ndayishimiye's potential 2027 candidacy. Nzikoruriho affirmed that Bagumyabanga members from all provinces, including Burunga, endorse President Ndayishimiye due to his contributions to inclusive development. He emphasized that the youth wing views President Ndayishimiye as a transformative leader who has significantly improved the quality of life for many Burundians. Ndayishimiye's 2020 promise upon taking power, to ensure 'every mouth has food and every pocket has money', has become a reality, according to Nzikoruriho. This pledge resonated deeply with the populace, and its perceived fulfillment has drew widespread support. The provincial secretary also encouraged Bagumyabanga members to cultivate cash crops such as coffee, tea, and avocados. Developing these agricultural products, Nzikoruriho explained, would increase exports and generate essential foreign currency for the country, further bolstering the national economy. This initiative aligns with the president's broader economic development goals, aiming to empower citizens through agricultural entrepreneurship and boost national revenue.
Development Achievements Cited
President Evariste Ndayishimiye has been credited with facilitating youth projects through cooperatives, which are funded by Paeej and the Banque d’investissement des jeunes (Bije). These initiatives have provided key financial support and opportunities for young Burundians to engage in various economic activities, fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship and self-reliance. The establishment of the Banque d’Investissement et de développement pour les femmes (Bidef) has also provided women with financing facilities to support their development projects. This focus on women's economic empowerment is a cornerstone of the administration's inclusive development strategy, recognizing their vital role in national progress.
In healthcare, the Ndayishimiye administration has continued the policy of providing free healthcare services for women during childbirth and for children under five years old. This policy aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates and ensure access to essential medical care for vulnerable populations. This policy is complemented by continued free schooling initiatives, ensuring that education remains accessible to all Burundian children, thereby laying the groundwork for a more educated and skilled future workforce. The Merankabandi project was implemented under President Ndayishimiye's leadership to help low-income populations improve their standard of living. This project represents a targeted effort to address poverty and uplift the most disadvantaged segments of society through various support mechanisms.
Beyond social programs, significant investments have been made in public infrastructure projects. Dams, roads, and hospitals have been built across the country, enhancing connectivity, improving public services, and stimulating economic growth. The RN16 road connecting Bururi and Matana communes in Burunga province is cited as a prime example of this infrastructure development, facilitating easier transportation and trade within the region. Additionally, the expansion of the electricity grid has enabled the population to undertake projects requiring electrical energy for entrepreneurship. This access to reliable power is critical for modernizing industries and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, further contributing to the nation's economic vitality.
Broader Political Context
A national congress of the ruling party, the CNDD-FDD, convened on April 26, 2026. The event took place on Nyabututsi hill, located in the Nyamugari zone of Gitega commune and province. This gathering provided a platform for party members and leadership to discuss various issues, including the political landscape and future electoral strategies. The congress is part of the ongoing political activities as the country approaches the 2027 elections, signaling the party's preparations for the upcoming electoral cycle and its unified stance behind President Ndayishimiye.
Officials Attend Rally
The ceremonies were attended by several high-ranking officials, showing the significance of the event and the broad support for President Ndayishimiye within the political establishment. Among those present were the 1st Vice-Presidents of both the Senate and the National Assembly, demonstrating legislative backing for the president's potential re-election bid. Government ministers also participated, including the Minister of Education and the Minister for Public Infrastructure, noting the executive branch's alignment. Senators, deputies, and other officials representing Burunga province were also in attendance at the event, reinforcing the local and national importance of the rally and the collective endorsement of the president's leadership.