Rumonge : an exemplary conviction for the rape of a disabled child

SOS Médias Burundi

Rumonge, September 25, 2025 — A Burundian court sentenced 24-year-old Léopold Ntirampeba to a life jail on Wednesday for the rape of a mentally disabled girl. The young man will also have to pay 10 million Burundi francs to the victim in damages.

The tragedy dates back to early September. According to local sources, Ntirampeba allegedly lured the child with a ripe banana, before taking her to a bush in Nkuba village, Gitaza zone, Muhuta district, Bujumbura province. There, he allegedly committed the heinous act without compunction.

The girl, who suffered from mental illness, then reported the assault to her mother. While inspecting the child’s clothing, the mother discovered traces of blood on her underwear, which prompted her to alert local authorities and community representatives.

Arrest and trial

Mobilized, the young Imbonerakure, affiliated with the ruling party, apprehended the suspect on September 16. Initially detained in the Gitaza zone cell, he was later transferred to the district police station in Rumonge.

After an investigation, the case was deliberated before the court delivered its verdict on September 24.

An exemplary sentence

The court found Léopold Ntirampeba guilty of rape and sentenced him to a life jail, along with the payment of 10 million Burundi francs in compensation. This decision was hailed by many local stakeholders as a strong signal against sexual violence on minors.