Burundi : tribute to Jackson Bahati, a giant of journalism has passed away

SOS Médias Burundi

Bujumbura, March 17, 2026 — Burundian journalist Jackson Bahati passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026. More than a media professional, he was a respected figure, a role model, and a source of inspiration for an entire generation of reporters. SOS Médias Burundi pays tribute to a man whose career, commitment, and humanity profoundly impacted journalism in this small east African nation.

By Alain Majesté Barenga

Some people practice a profession. Others become its very soul.

Jackson Bahati was one of those : a journalist by profession, a journalist by conviction, a journalist with a heart.

The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the media community. On Monday evening, a simple WhatsApp notification was enough to suspend time : “Bahati is no more.” Disbelief gave way to confirmation, then to a silence heavy with emotion.

For many Burundian journalists, his passing marks the loss of a guiding light. A discreet yet indispensable man, whose presence was reassuring and whose commitment was inspiring.

A man of action and solidarity

I met Jackson Bahati in 2016 in Cibitoke, during a public broadcast hosted by former President Pierre Nkurunziza. That evening, more than a hundred journalists found themselves without accommodation, as the hotels had been monopolized by officials.

Faced with this situation, Jackson Bahati stood up quietly. Single-handedly, he arranged lodging for dozens of colleagues, sometimes using his own resources. The next day, he was still making sure everyone could get to work.

That day, he wasn’t just a journalist.

He was a refuge.

In western Burundi, he was a true institution. Always available and approachable, he always responded with his customary “Ntangorane”—no problem—becoming a guide, facilitator, and support for many reporters.

An upright and courageous professional

Within the Iwacu press group, one of the few remaining independent media outlets still operating in Burundi, where I had the privilege of working alongside him, Jackson Bahati distinguished himself through his unwavering commitment.

Together, we traveled through remote and sometimes unstable areas along the country’s borders, on difficult roads and in sensitive situations.

Faced with intimidation, pressure, and risks, he remained steadfast. Incorruptible. Faithful to a clear principle : that of truth and integrity.

In a media landscape often fragile, he embodied rigorous, independent journalism, deeply committed to ethics.

A mentor and a source of inspiration

Beyond his professional role, Jackson Bahati was a man of great heart. He mentored young journalists, shared his experience, and readily offered concrete support to those in need.

His constant smile earned him the nickname “Jembe”—the hoe, a symbol of hard work and perseverance.

For many, he was more than a colleague : a mentor, a friend, a guiding light.

A great loss for the profession

Jackson Bahati leaves behind the image of a true “baobab” of Burundian journalism : firmly rooted in truth and a protector of an entire generation.

Despite threats and pressure, he never wavered in his principles. His commitment to a free, dignified, and professional press will be remembered.

A French journalist and trainer who knew him described him as “a remarkable young man.” “I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing. May he rest in peace,” he reacted upon learning of his death, which he described as “terrible news.”

His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. But his legacy remains : in the values ​​he embodied, in the journalists he mentored, and in every truth he courageously defended.

Through his life’s work, Jackson Bahati also leaves a responsibility to those who remain : to continue the fight for free and ethical journalism.

Rest in peace, Jembe. In the memory of your colleagues and in the history of the Burundian press, your light will never be extinguished.