USA : five Burundian journalists receive the International Courage in Journalism Award offered by Texas Tech University

The courage of Burundian journalists was honored by the College of Media and Communication at Texas Tech University. This institution sought to encourage Burundian journalists who face significant restrictions on their right to work freely, often at the risk of their safety and lives.

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Four Burundian women journalists were recognized : Agnès Ndirubusa, Christine Kamikazi, Floriane Irangabiye and Sandra Muhoza. They all have been victims of arbitrary detention, a situation denounced by international human rights organizations. Only one, Sandra Muhoza, remains in detention and is the only female journalist currently imprisoned in Africa.

Their commitment as journalists has cost them dearly in a country where press freedom is seriously threatened. Threats, intimidation, and censorship are part of their daily reality, in a climate of increased repression.

A journalist in exile honored

The fifth journalist honored is Alexandre Niyungeko, chairman of the Union of Burundian Journalists. Forced into exile, he shares the fate of around a hundred other Burundian journalists who have had to flee their country to escape persecution.

A prize that brings hope

Agnès Ndirubusa, honored for her work with the independent Iwacu press group, stated that this prize was not only hers, but that of all Burundian journalists who resist repression. She expressed her gratitude in particular to her son, Dylan, who encouraged her to participate in the symposium in Texas, believing it important that the struggle of Burundian journalists be heard internationally.

Agnès Ndirubusa, honored for her work with the Iwacu press group

“This award is for Burundian journalists who face threats, intimidation, and censorship. It is for the Iwacu journalists who stand firm despite pressure. The disappearance of Jean Bigirimana in 2016, the arbitrary detention of my colleagues and myself, as well as the censorship exercised by the authorities are trials we are going through, but we remain determined.”

When asked if this recognition can strengthen the resilience of the local press in Burundi, she says : “Any breath of fresh air in the suffocated landscape of Burundian journalism is essential. The whole world sees our fight for press freedom. We have told our story in the United States, and others are telling it elsewhere. I am hopeful that our magnificent country, Burundi, will heal from its wounds and that the prestige of Burundian journalism can be reborn.”

A context of growing pressure

This award comes in a climate of increased tension and censorship by the Burundian authorities. Recently, the Yaga Burundi coalition was temporarily suspended by the National Communication Council (CNC), intensifying pressure on independent journalism.

Furthermore, journalist Sandra Muhoza is currently in detention.

International recognition

In addition to the five Burundian journalists, three other journalists from Cameroon, Cuba, and Mexico were honored by the College of Media and Communication at Texas Tech University.

The next edition will highlight journalists resisting oppression in China, said Professor Lyombe Eko, organizer of the symposium. The previous edition honored renowned journalists from Russia and Syria.

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Group photo of the journalists who received the International Courage in Journalism Award offered by Texas Tech University and the ceremony organizers