Burundi

The three stars in Burundi’s flag represent the country’s three main ethnic groups: the Hutu, Tusi, and Twa—groups that have remained distinct for centuries and are still at variance today. This fertile country, nearly the size of Maryland, is one of the most densely populated countries in the continent. For centuries, it was governed by the kingdom of Burundi. Although it was later controlled by several colonial powers, it was able to maintain its traditional monarchy throughout. It was first governed by Germany in conjunction with Rwanda and Tanzania until WWI transferred Burundi and Rwanda into Belgium’s hands. The joint colony was called Ruanda-Urundi.

Burundi declared its independence in 1962. At first, it attempted to retain its traditional monarchy; however, violence, coups, and unrest finally necessitated the country’s becoming a republic six years later. The next three decades saw genocides, revenge killings, and two civil wars in quick succession between the Hutu and the Tutsi. Hundreds of thousands were killed, thousands of citizens fled the country, and many of those who remained lived in refugee camps within their own country. The turn of the century saw a cease-fire signed and a transitional government put into place. Since that time, the country has been struggling forward still hampered by periodic battles, coup attempts, and rebel violence.

Not surprisingly, the country’s economy is devastated: Burundi is one of the world’s poorest nations and has one of the lowest per capita gross incomes. Most of its population of over twelve million are rural, focusing their efforts on survival. Less than seventy percent is literate. Most speak the official language of Kirundi. French and English are also official languages, although approximately ten percent speak French and less than three percent speak English. Roman Catholicism is the most widely claimed religion. Many also follow Protestantism or other churches that claim Christianity, which all share a great deal of false doctrine and have combined their beliefs with traditional animistic worship.

Missionaries in Burundi:

Missionaries in Africa (listed with BIMI account numbers)