Bishops’ Conference Examines the Role of the Church in Burundi’s Vision 2040–2060
On January 26, 2026, the Association of Evangelicals in Burundi (AEDH-BURUNDI, in French), in collaboration with the National Council of Churches in Burundi, organised a Bishops’ Conference at Kiriri Garden Hotel. The event brought together senior Christian leaders from across Burundi to reflect on the role of the Church in supporting the country’s long-term development agenda.
The conference was held under the theme: “What is the Role of the Church in Achieving the Country’s Vision: Emerging Country by 2040, Developed Country by 2060?” It provided a high-level platform for dialogue between church leadership and public institutions on how faith-based organisations can contribute to national transformation.
Heads of denominations from the Evangelical, Pentecostal, Anglican, and Catholic churches participated in the conference. Discussions focused on the Church’s responsibility in promoting moral values, ethical leadership, social cohesion, and community development, in alignment with Burundi’s Vision 2040–2060.
According to the observations of the Secretary General of AEB, Pastor Edmund Gakiza, the Association conducted visits to churches across all 18 former provinces of the country following the adoption of the national Vision 2040–2060 by the Government of Burundi. These visits revealed that many Christians did not yet have a clear understanding of the national vision and its implications for society. This observation prompted the Association of Evangelicals in Burundi to organise the Bishops’ Conference, with the objective of raising awareness, fostering informed dialogue, and strengthening leadership engagement around the vision.
In response to this need, representatives from the Ministry of the Interior were invited to provide clarity on the content, objectives, and strategic direction of the national vision. Their presentation enabled church leaders to better understand the role faith-based institutions can play in supporting government efforts toward sustainable development.
Following the government presentation, participants benefited from contributions by distinguished speakers, including Adv. John Langlois, Ambassador of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA), Monsignor Deogratias Nshimiyimana, leader of the Free Methodist Church in Burundi, and Abbé Dr. Dieudonné. The speakers highlighted the importance of responsible church leadership, national unity, and active Christian engagement in socio-economic and moral development.
The Bishops’ Conference concluded with a shared commitment among church leaders to continue working together, strengthening collaboration with public authorities, and ensuring that the Church remains a constructive partner in building a peaceful, just, and prosperous Burundi in line with the Vision 2040–2060.
