Burundi : Ndayishimiye reshuffles his government and appoints three new ministers

SOS Médias Burundi

Bujumbura, April 28, 2026 — By presidential decree signed on April 28, 2026, the Burundian head of state carried out a partial government reshuffle, appointing three new ministers to the portfolios of Infrastructure, Public Health, and Communication and Media.

Among the announced changes is the appointment of Égide Nijimbere to the Ministry of Infrastructure, Public Works, and Social Housing. He replaces Damien Niyonkuru, who will have spent only a few months at the head of this department after his appointment in January 2026.

A ministry marked by significant instability

The Ministry of Infrastructure has seen a rapid succession of leaders. In less than eight months, three ministers have held the position. Before Damien Niyonkuru, this position was held by Jean Claude Nzobaneza, who remained in office for six months. He was recently transferred to Mpimba Central Prison in the commercial capital, Bujumbura, after several days of detention in the cells of the National Intelligence Service (SNR) in connection with an alleged embezzlement of public funds.

An engineer by training, Égide Nijimbere is described as a veteran of this administration, where he served for over five years as permanent secretary.

Change at public health

At the Ministry of Public Health, Lydwine Baradahana has been replaced by Fidèle Nkezabahizi. The latter previously headed the National Integrated Food and Nutrition Program (PRONIANUT).

His appointment comes amidst several health challenges, including the fight against communicable diseases and improving access to healthcare.

Evelyne Butoyi succeeds Gabby Bugaga

The Ministry of Communication and Media has been allocated to Evelyne Butoyi, who succeeds Gabby Bugaga, who was buried on April 28. Mr. Bugaga died in a traffic accident on the night of April 15-16, according to the official version from the Burundian government, although several sources suggest it was a staged murder.

A former journalist and career diplomat, Evelyne Butoyi had represented Burundi in parts of Southern Africa since 2024, based in Lusaka, Zambia. She also served as Minister of Youth, Posts, and Information Technology from 2018 to 2020, before becoming the President’s spokesperson in 2021.

This reshuffle comes at a time when several key sectors are awaiting renewed government impetus. Challenges related to infrastructure, public health, and the modernization of communications are among the priorities of the newly appointed authorities.