Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Burundi
On Tuesday June 2nd 2026, in Bujumbura, the Gender Unit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation organized an awareness-raising workshop for young women working at the Ministry. The aim was to strengthen their commitment and contribution to the realization of the Burundi Vision: “An emerging country by 2040 and a developed country by 2060”, in line with national guidelines on gender promotion.
The topic chosen for this meeting was: “The role of women in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation in Burundi’s emergence”.
In his address, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Mr Sophonie Nitunga, welcomed this initiative and expressed his gratitude to the organizers. He recalled that the national ambition of an emerging and developed Burundi is not merely a political or economic project, but a collective responsibility that calls upon all the nation’s driving forces.
Mr Nitunga highlighted the active role of women in the Ministry’s core missions:
- International representation in dealings with partners and on the global stage.
- Diplomatic engagement and the strengthening of bilateral and multilateral relations.
- Promoting cooperation and supporting development initiatives.
- Regional integration and participation in regional initiatives.
- Upholding the nation’s image and values.
He emphasized that current challenges require greater skills, innovation and commitment.
The Permanent Secretary reminded that public action must be guided by core values such as professionalism, integrity, discipline, a sense of responsibility, innovation and initiative. He encouraged the women in the Ministry to develop their leadership skills, strengthen their capabilities, believe in their abilities and play an active role in providing solutions to institutional challenges.
In conclusion, Mr Nitunga gave an assurance that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would continue to support all initiatives aimed at building women’s capacities and promoting their effective participation in institutional life and national development.
