President Evariste Ndayishimiye officially inaugurated the Toha Hotel on Saturday, August 08, 2026, in Bujumbura, marking a significant milestone for the Burundian capital. The hotel, strategically located in Commune Mukaza, specifically within Zone Rohero, stands as a testament to local investment and architectural ambition. This new building is notably recognized as Burundi's first multi-level structure, a landmark achievement in the country's urban development. During the ceremony, President Ndayishimiye extended heartfelt congratulations to the hotel's Burundian owner, Désiré Sahinguvu, acknowledging his vision and entrepreneurial spirit. Sahinguvu is not only a prominent entrepreneur but also serves as the president of avocado farmers in Burundi, showcasing a diverse involvement in the nation's economy.
A New Landmark Rises
The newly inaugurated Toha Hotel features an impressive twelve levels, making it a prominent and easily recognizable structure in Bujumbura's skyline. Its considerable height and modern design contribute significantly to the aesthetic and functional landscape of the city. Beyond its towering presence, the facility also includes a advanced stacked car park, designed to efficiently accommodate twenty-five vehicles, addressing a common urban challenge. The journey of the hotel's construction is notable; it began with an initial plan for six levels, a vision that was subsequently expanded to its current twelve, reflecting growing ambition and investment. The entire hotel complex is situated on an expansive area spanning eleven ares, providing ample space for its various amenities and infrastructure. The concept for the Toha Hotel, a project now brought to fruition, was first conceived in 2020, demonstrating a sustained commitment to its development over several years.
President's Vision for Development
During the inauguration, President Ndayishimiye showed his administration's commitment to fostering national development through private sector initiatives. In a forward-looking gesture, President Ndayishimiye proposed to Désiré Sahinguvu that he consider constructing an international conference building, noting the potential for further high-impact projects. This suggestion aligns with the President's broader vision for Burundi to enhance its capacity for international engagement and business tourism. The President also took the opportunity to express his profound gratitude to the banks that provided Sahinguvu with key credit for the hotel's construction, recognizing their vital role in enabling such large-scale private investments. Sahinguvu, the Toha Hotel's owner and president of avocado farmers in Burundi, has already indicated his ambitious plans to initiate industrial projects in the near future, signaling a continued expansion of his entrepreneurial endeavors beyond the hospitality sector.
Encouragement and National Pride
President Ndayishimiye utilized the inauguration ceremony to show the critical importance of local investment and entrepreneurship in driving Burundi's socio-economic development. He emphasized that the Toha Hotel represents a significant and tangible step towards national progress, serving as an inspiring example for others. The President urged other Burundians to follow Désiré Sahinguvu's commendable example, encouraging them to invest within the country and contribute to its growth. He specifically noted the key role of such initiatives in job creation, providing employment opportunities for many Burundians, and stimulating broader economic growth. Ndayishimiye called for a unified spirit among entrepreneurs, urging them to collaborate and collectively contribute to the country's transformation. He further affirmed that the government is steadfastly committed to supporting private sector endeavors that align with and advance national development goals, promising an environment conducive to investment and innovation.
Owner's Journey and Future
Désiré Sahinguvu, the Burundian owner of Toha Hotel, is also widely recognized for his leadership as the president of avocado farmers in Burundi, demonstrating his diverse contributions to the national economy. His entrepreneurial journey saw the initial plan for the Toha Hotel concept first conceived in 2020, laying the groundwork for what would become a landmark development. Sahinguvu's construction project, which began with a plan for six levels, ultimately expanded into the impressive twelve-level structure that was proudly inaugurated by President Evariste Ndayishimiye. This expansion reflects a growing confidence and commitment to the project's scale and potential impact. Building on this success, President Ndayishimiye has already proposed that Sahinguvu consider constructing an international conference building, recognizing his proven capability. Looking ahead, Sahinguvu has indicated his ambitious plans to initiate industrial projects in the near future, building on his extensive experience and success with the Toha Hotel and further diversifying his business portfolio.