Burundi: Audience Granted to an Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) Delegation Preparing for the International Exhibition on Women’s Entrepreneurship in Central Africa

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On October 7, 2026, His Excellency Mr. Édouard Bizimana, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and Development Cooperation, received a delegation from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) led by Ms. Nelly Banaken, Commissioner for Gender Promotion, Human and Social Development. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the progress of preparations for the third edition of the International Exhibition on Women’s Entrepreneurship in Central Africa, held under the theme: “Central African Women in Action: Economic Integration, Cross-Border Solidarity, and Diaspora Dynamism.” This event, held under the high patronage of Her Excellency Mrs. Angéline NDAYISHIMIYE, First Lady of the Republic of Burundi, will be organized jointly with the Forum of Women Leaders Entrepreneurs. Both events are scheduled to take place in Burundi from November 3 to 6, 2026.

During the discussions, the head of the delegation expressed her gratitude to the Government of Burundi for the welcome and support extended to the ECCAS mission. She requested the Ministry to facilitate the issuance of visas on arrival at Melchior Ndadaye International Airport for the participants expected at these events. She also advocated for the exemption of duties on products intended for exhibition and sale at the fair. Furthermore, Ms. Nelly Banaken addressed logistical aspects regarding the organization of the activities, specifically the provision of a suitable venue for the events and a room for the press briefing for the Forum of Women Entrepreneur Leaders. To this end, she requested the Minister’s support in exploring the possibility of holding these activities in the vicinity of Intwari Stadium.

In response, the Minister reassured the delegation that participants would be able to obtain visas upon arrival. Regarding the exemption for products intended for exhibition and sale, he noted that this matter required prior consultation with the relevant sectoral ministries before a decision could be reached. As for the venue, His Excellency Mr. Édouard Bizimana explained that Intwari Stadium is currently under FIFA management, which could limit the feasibility of hosting the planned events there. However, he proposed exploring the Jardin Public as an alternative site and pledged to facilitate the necessary steps to assess its feasibility.

This meeting demonstrates Burundi’s commitment to supporting regional initiatives aimed at promoting women’s entrepreneurship, women’s economic empowerment, and regional integration in Central Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministère des Affaires Etrangères du Burundi.