Burundi's ambassador in Cairo on the National Day: We pledge allegiance to Prince Louis Rwagasore and the heroes of national sovereignty

On July 1st of each year, the Republic of Burundi celebrates its National Day, commemorating its independence from Belgian colonial rule in 1962, a day that marked a significant turning point in the country's history and the beginning of a new era after decades of colonial governance.

In this context, the Embassy of Burundi in Cairo held a celebration today in this regard, attended by Omar Nzamurambaho, the Ambassador of Burundi in Cairo.

This occasion is marked by official and popular celebrations, including flag-raising ceremonies, military parades, and cultural events, in addition to official speeches highlighting the importance of national unity and the continuation of the development journey.

Ambassador of the Republic of Burundi

In this context, the Ambassador of the Republic of Burundi to the Arab Republic of Egypt delivered a speech on the occasion of the 64th Independence Day of Burundi, which was as follows:

Ambassador Salwa Mowafi, Assistant Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Egyptians Abroad, Mohamed Labratanj, Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps in Egypt, and the Ambassadors accredited to the Arab Republic of Egypt present here, Abdullah Ahmed, Honorary Consul of Burundi in Khartoum, Defense attachés from various African countries, representatives of Egyptian companies friendly to Burundi, staff of the Embassy of Burundi in Cairo, members of the Burundian community, dear friends of Burundi and our dear citizens, distinguished guests, peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you. It is my pleasure to welcome you to this ceremony organized on the occasion of the celebration of the 64th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Burundi.

Allow me, before we begin today, to highlight a significant event that honors our entire nation: Burundi is currently assuming the presidency of the Organization of African Unity under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Burundi, Major General Évariste Ndayishimiye. This high responsibility signifies the extent of trust placed in our country by African nations and affirms Burundi's return as a committed representative of peace, African integration, solidarity among peoples, and sustainable development.

A moment to remember, acknowledge, and reflect on our shared responsibility towards the homeland

This presidency is a source of pride for all Burundians, wherever they may be. It calls on us to be distinguished ambassadors for our country and for our continent, to promote the values of patriotism, peace, brotherhood, responsibility, and excellence.

In this regard, in particular, we are happy to celebrate today the 64th anniversary of our country's independence. This national holiday is a moment for remembrance, recognition, and reflection on our shared responsibility towards our homeland.

We pledge our loyalty to Prince Luis Roragazori and all the heroes who dedicated their lives to our national sovereignty. Their sacrifice reminds us that independence is not permanently achieved; it grows stronger every day with our unity, patriotism, work, and dedication to public service.

In his address to the nation, the President of the Republic made a formal appeal to all Burundians to diligently preserve our independence, support our national unity, and accelerate the development of our country. He also stated that divisions and manipulation should no longer harm our nation's future.

The Head of State also stressed that the many natural resources that God has blessed Burundi with must first and foremost benefit the Burundian people, and that every citizen is called to participate, whether through their work, integrity, or patriotism, in building a prosperous Burundi.
My dear compatriots.

Egypt participates in the prosperity of our country.

This message is also directed to you in the Arab Republic of Egypt. Through your studies, research, professional activities, and exemplary conduct, you are contributing to the prosperity of our country and supporting the excellent relations of friendship and cooperation between Burundi and the Arab Republic of Egypt.

The government of the Republic of Burundi considers its diaspora a strategic partner for national development. Your skills, investments, good conduct, and experiences represent a valuable asset to our country.

I call on you to remain united and respectful of the laws of the country that receives you, and to always be committed to the values that our nation of Burundi is founded upon.

I would also like to take this happy opportunity to invite you to participate in the huge National Conference Abroad, which will be organized in Bujumbura within the framework of the African dimension, in full harmony with the presidency of the African Union.
This important forum will allow for distinguished dialogue between Burundians at home and the diaspora and African communities. It will also facilitate the advancement of investments, innovation, and economic, scientific, and cultural exchanges, supporting the diaspora's participation in the development of Burundi and the African continent.

I encourage you to accept this call and be active in this national and pan-African dynamic.

Deep gratitude to Egypt

We would like to express our deep gratitude to the authorities of the Arab Republic of Egypt for their hospitality and friendship, and we pledge to them our commitment to supporting strong friendly relations between our two countries.

I also extend my sincere thanks to all of you for your presence, which testifies to your connection to our beloved homeland.

Following this celebration, I will be delighted to share a fraternal dinner with you here in your honor. This will be an excellent opportunity for open communication regarding your expectations, concerns, and suggestions to support the relationship between our embassy and the Burundian community residing in Egypt.

As we celebrate our National Day far from our motherland, let us renew our pledge together to serve Burundi with loyalty, honor, and patriotism.

Together, let us continue our participation in building a united, sovereign, and prosperous Burundi fully committed to serving Africa. Long live the Republic of Burundi, long live the African Union, long live the friendship between the Republic of Burundi and the Arab Republic of Egypt, long live the Burundian community. Thank you for your kind attention.