Two tragedies rock Gitega province : one man fatally beaten and another found hanged

SOS Médias Burundi

Gitega, August 14, 2025 – Gitega province, in the center of the small east African nation, was marked, during the same week, by two separate tragedies that caused shock among the local population. One involved a murder linked to a family dispute, the other a death by hanging, probably a suicide.

The first tragedy occurred on August 9, 2025, in Mugoboka village, in the district and province of Gitega. According to witnesses, Désiré Nijimbere, 30 years old, was harvesting avocados in a family field when he was violently attacked by his two brothers, Prosper Tuyishemeze (32 years old) and Bernard Nibitanga (34 years old). Seriously injured, he was taken to Espoir Hospital in Kibuye for treatment.

Mugoboka village chief Éric Havyarimana confirmed that the victim succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the same hospital. Initial investigations suggest a land dispute as the motive for the murder. The two alleged perpetrators were arrested and are currently being held by the police for further investigation.

The second tragedy occurred on August 11, 2025, in Bugumbasha village, also in the district of Gitega. The lifeless body of Emmanuel Ntahomvukiye, 59 years old, was discovered hanging from a rope inside his home. Ms. Pélagie Niyongabo, Bugumbasha village chief, indicated that, although the precise reasons for the attack have not yet been established, suicide is the preferred theory. Police stated that no suspects have been arrested and that the man had already attempted suicide twice in the past.

These two tragedies have renewed concerns about domestic violence and psychological disorders in the province. Residents are calling for increased awareness campaigns on the peaceful management of land conflicts and suicide prevention, as these phenomena continue to claim lives in the region.