The President of Burundi and current Chairperson of the African Union, Évariste Ndayishimiye, is scheduled to arrive in Kinshasa this Monday, June 22, 2026. This two-day state visit to the République démocratique du Congo follows a formal invitation from his counterpart, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi.
This official visit highlights the deep-rooted historical ties between Burundi and the République démocratique du Congo. President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi will travel to N’djili International Airport to personally welcome the Burundian leader. Following the arrival ceremonies, the two heads of state will engage in private discussions at the Cité de l’Union africaine, which will be followed by a joint press briefing.
Focus on regional security and health
The dialogue between the two leaders will center on critical issues affecting both nations, most notably the security situation in eastern DRC and the ongoing efforts to combat the Ebola virus. The timing of this visit is significant, as Évariste Ndayishimiye is currently serving his term as the head of the African Union.
Within the Grands Lacs region, Burundi and the République démocratique du Congo have established themselves as vital strategic allies. This relationship was strengthened by a bilateral defense pact signed in March 2023. To address the persistent instability in the east and the activities of the AFC/M23 rebellion and its allies in South Kivu, Bujumbura has stationed thousands of soldiers to support the FARDC and protect the shared border.
A strategic military alliance
This military partnership continues to expand through consistent cooperation between the defense ministries of both countries. Burundian forces remain active in South Kivu and other frontline areas, working alongside the Congolese army to neutralize armed groups. Both nations remain committed to addressing shared security challenges to ensure a durable peace across the Grands Lacs region.
