Published on 07 May 2026
In early May 2025, many Burundians living in various European countries gathered in Brussels, Belgium, for a Bashingantahe inauguration ceremony.
This ceremony is one of Burundi’s oldest traditions, dating back to the 15th century according to some historians.
The responsibilities associated with this ceremony included conflict resolution, social cohesion and the preservation of the customs and traditions specific to the Burundian people and their country.
At the most recent ceremony, twelve people – six women and six men – were invested. However, the number of candidates far exceeded the number of applications received, and not all were accepted.
The reason given was failure to meet the requirements, notably that of being a role model for the community.
Whereas in ancient traditions men were appointed and women became the ‘abashigikirantahe’, today women are appointed on an equal footing with men and take the same oath to become guardians, promising to provide for everyone, to liberate the oppressed and to care for orphans, widows and those who depend on the guardians, without charge or reward.
By Alain Majesté Barenga
Source : https://www.bbc.com/gahuza/articles/clyzg24pd20o