Burundi

World Book Index

Introduction

Burundi, a small yet vibrant nation in East Africa, gained its independence from Belgium in 1962, initially establishing itself as the Kingdom of Burundi. However, the monarchy was overthrown in 1966, leading to the formation of a republic. The country has faced significant challenges, particularly following the assassination of its first democratically elected president in 1993, which ignited a devastating 12-year civil war characterized by ethnic violence between the Hutu and Tutsi communities. Despite these tumultuous events, Burundi continues to strive for stability and development, navigating a complex political landscape marked by historical tensions and ongoing efforts toward reconciliation and democratic governance.

Neighboring countries

Democratic Republic of the Congo - Rwanda - Tanzania

Geography

Area
Total: 27,830 sq km
Land: 25,680 sq km
Water: 2,150 sq km

Burundi is a landlocked country situated in East Africa, characterized by its diverse topography and rich natural resources. The climate is predominantly equatorial, with a high plateau that exhibits considerable altitude variation, ranging from 772 m to 2,670 m above sea level. This altitude contributes to a generally moderate climate, with average annual temperatures varying from 23 degrees Celsius in the lower regions to 17 degrees Celsius in the higher altitudes. The country experiences an average annual rainfall of approximately 150 cm, divided into two wet seasons (February to May and September to November) and two dry seasons (June to August and December to January). Burundi is endowed with a wealth of natural resources, including nickel, uranium, rare earth oxides, peat, cobalt, copper, platinum, vanadium, arable land, hydropower, niobium, tantalum, gold, tin, tungsten, kaolin, and limestone, which present significant potential for economic development and sustainability.

People and Society

Population
Total: 13,590,102 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
Hutu, Tutsi, Twa, South Asian

Languages
Kirundi (official), French (official), English (official, least spoken), Swahili (2008 estimated)

Religions
Christian 93.9% (Roman Catholic 58.6%, Protestant 35.3% [includes Adventist 2.7% and other Protestant religions 32.6%]), Muslim 3.4%, other 1.3%, none 1.3% (2016-17 estimated)

Population growth rate
2.81% (2024 estimated)

Burundi's population, estimated at 13,590,102 in 2024, is characterized by a youthful demographic, with a growth rate of 2.81%. The society is ethnically diverse, primarily composed of Hutu, Tutsi, and Twa groups, alongside a small South Asian community. The official languages are Kirundi, French, and English, with Kirundi being the most widely spoken. The religious landscape is predominantly Christian, with approximately 93.9% of the population adhering to various denominations, including Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. A small percentage of the population practices Islam or identifies with other religions or none at all. This rich tapestry of ethnicities and beliefs contributes to the cultural vibrancy of Burundi, although it also reflects the historical complexities that have shaped the nation.

Government

Government type
Presidential republic

Capital
Name: Gitega (political capital), Bujumbura (commercial capital)

Executive branch
Chief of state: President Evariste NDAYISHIMIYE (since 18 June 2020)
Head of government: Prime Minister Nestor NTAHONTUYE (since 5 August 2025)

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Jean Bosco BAREGE (since 27 February 2024)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Lisa PETERSON (since 27 June 2024)

Burundi operates as a presidential republic, where the President serves as both the head of state and the head of government. The current President, Evariste NDAYISHIMIYE, has been in office since June 18, 2020. The political capital is Gitega, while Bujumbura serves as the commercial capital. The government structure is characterized by a concentration of power in the executive branch, which has faced criticism for its handling of political dissent and human rights issues. The Prime Minister, Nestor NTAHONTUYE, appointed on August 5, 2025, plays a crucial role in the administration of government functions. Diplomatic relations are maintained with various countries, including representation in the United States, where Ambassador Jean Bosco BAREGE has been serving since February 27, 2024.

Economy

Economic overview
Burundi's economy is highly agrarian and classified as a low-income Sub-Saharan economy. The country has been grappling with declining foreign assistance and increasing fiscal insolvencies, which pose significant challenges to its economic stability. The population density is high and continues to grow, further straining resources and infrastructure. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing vulnerabilities, disrupting economic recovery and reversing two years of deflation.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$11.739 billion (2024 estimated)
$11.343 billion (2023 estimated)
$11.048 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$800 (2024 estimated)
$800 (2023 estimated)
$800 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$378.229 million (2023 estimated)
$333.637 million (2022 estimated)
$302.752 million (2021 estimated)

Exports - partners
UAE 59%, Uganda 8%, China 5%, Germany 5%, USA 3% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Gold, coffee, tea, tin ores, iron bars (2023)

Imports
$1.433 billion (2023 estimated)
$1.42 billion (2022 estimated)
$1.166 billion (2021 estimated)

Imports - partners
Tanzania 26%, China 15%, Uganda 10%, Kenya 10%, India 6% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Fertilizers, cement, packaged medicine, plastic products, cars (2023)

The real GDP of Burundi, measured in purchasing power parity, is estimated at $11.739 billion for 2024, reflecting a gradual increase from $11.048 billion in 2022. However, the GDP per capita remains low at $800, indicating significant economic challenges for the average citizen. The country's export sector is primarily driven by commodities such as gold, coffee, tea, tin ores, and iron bars, with the United Arab Emirates being the largest trading partner, accounting for 59% of exports in 2023. Conversely, imports totaled $1.433 billion in 2023, with Tanzania, China, and Uganda being the main sources. Key imports include fertilizers, cement, and packaged medicines, which are essential for supporting the agricultural sector and healthcare system. Overall, Burundi's economy is at a critical juncture, requiring strategic interventions to enhance productivity and foster sustainable growth.

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.439, ranking it 187th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 142nd out of 158 countries tested with a score of 3.775. (more information)