Bukinanyana : farmers accuse local administrator Isaac Niyokwizera of stifling the maize trade

SOS Médias Burundi

Bukinanyana, February 25, 2026 – Tensions are rising in the Ndava and Buganda zones of Bukinanyana district, Bujumbura province, in western Burundi. Farmers are accusing local administrator Isaac Niyokwizera of having “stifled” the maize trade through a decision prohibiting its sale to traders and its marketing in local markets.

Issued on February 10, the measure prevents producers from freely selling their harvest during the peak marketing season. For many farmers, this is a major blow to their economic survival.

At the Gasenyi market, a roasted corn vendor expressed his anger :

“I’ve been selling roasted corn for over ten years. It’s how I support my family and pay for my children’s schooling. Now, we’re forbidden from doing it. It’s an injustice,” he lamented.

Another farmer explained that he had invested all his savings in growing corn. He now finds himself prevented from selling his produce, even at home as he used to do. “We’re being prevented from having what belongs to us. How are we going to feed our families?” he asked.

Suspicions of hidden agendas

Officially, the decision is said to be motivated by the fight against corn theft. But in the area, several residents suggest hidden motives. Persistent rumors suggest that fields belonging to certain administrative officials are already ready for harvest.

According to several farmers, the ban aims to control the market in order to facilitate the sale of certain crops. “Why ban it now, in the middle of the sales season?” asks a resident of Buganda.

The farmers also point out that the National Food Security Stock Agency (ANAGESSA) had purchased corn from them on credit. A year after the delivery, several producers claim they still haven’t been paid.

“We delivered our produce and we’re still waiting for our money. Now, we’re even being prevented from selling elsewhere to survive,” they lament.

The administrator rejects the accusations

Contacted by SOS Médias Burundi, the district administrator, Isaac Niyokwizera, asserts that the decision was made “in the farmers’ interest” and to better regulate the marketing of corn. He categorically rejects the accusations of favoritism, calling these allegations “false.”

On the ground, however, the anger remains high. Residents of the Ndava and Buganda zones are demanding the immediate suspension of the measure and calling on provincial authorities to intervene to prevent an escalation of tensions.