Children in danger in Bujumbura : murders and sexual violence go unpunished

SOS Médias Burundi

Bujumbura, March 2, 2026 – In less than three months since the beginning of the year, the districts of Cibitoke, Mugina, and Bukinanyana, in Bujumbura province in western Burundi, have seen an alarming surge in serious violence against children. Three minors have been found dead, and sixteen others have been victims of sexual violence, according to local administrative and judicial sources.

An 8-year-old child found dead in Mugina

In the district of Mugina, the lifeless body of an 8-year-old child was discovered in the Butahana zone, in Rutorero village. In addition, five rape cases have been reported in the villages of Rumvya, Kibande, Nyamakarabo, and Nyempundu. To date, no suspect has been identified in the case of the child found dead.

Two bodies discovered in Cibitoke

In the district of Cibitoke, two children were found dead on the banks of the Nyamagana River, in Rusiga village. Four other children were victims of sexual violence on the villages of Rukana, Rusororo, Ngoma, and Kagazi.

Seven rape cases reported in Bukinanyana

The district of Bukinanyana alone has recorded seven cases of child rape in the villages of Nyamitanga, Bihembe, Shimwe, Nyangwe, and Rangira. According to information gathered, the alleged perpetrators include artisanal gold miners, motorcycle taxi riders, and traders. Only two suspects have been arrested. The others are reportedly moving about freely, benefiting, according to some local sources, from protection linked to their membership in the ruling party, the CNDD-FDD.

Accusations of corruption and impunity

Residents are denouncing the normalization of sexual violence against children. Some local officials are accused of covering up cases in exchange for bribes, preventing them from being brought to justice. Similar accusations target certain judicial police officials, suspected of protecting alleged perpetrators.

These practices are sparking outrage among parents and child rights advocates, who are demanding exemplary punishments to restore trust and deter any recurrence.

Authorities promise prosecutions

When questioned, administrative officials in the affected districts stated that cases brought to their attention are being prosecuted, while acknowledging that some cases are not always reported to them at the local level. The prosecutor in Cibitoke confirmed that identified suspects are brought before the appropriate courts. He called on local officials to encourage the population to systematically report anyone suspected of sexual violence so that justice can be served.