Ntaryamira Day in Burundi
Ntaryamira Day is observed in Burundi on 6 April, the date set aside to remember President Cyprien Ntaryamira. A 2021 presidential decree lists it as a public holiday, non-working and paid; official commemorations have included prayer, tributes at his tomb and remembrance of his legacy.[1][2]
A holiday for Burundi’s former president
The decree identifies 6 April as the commemoration of the assassination of President Cyprien Ntaryamira and includes it in Burundi’s list of public holidays. The date recalls Ntaryamira’s death in Rwanda on 6 April 1994, alongside Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana, as described in the Burundian government’s account of a later commemoration.[1][2]
The day is specifically part of Burundi’s official remembrance of Ntaryamira. At a state commemoration, a church leader described him as a supporter of peace, development and discipline, and connected his legacy with dialogue and the pursuit of lasting peace.[2]
How official commemorations are observed
Accounts from Bujumbura describe ceremonies attended by national leaders, family members, diplomatic representatives and political figures. Activities have included prayer or a requiem Mass, reflection at the tomb at the Monument to the Martyrs of Democracy, laying wreaths and listening to a speech Ntaryamira gave at his inauguration.[2][3]
These reports document official ceremonies, not a uniform practice followed by every household or community. One presidential account says a Eucharistic celebration had traditionally opened the ceremony, but it was not held that year because the date coincided with the Easter Triduum.[3]
Public holiday status and practical plans
The 2021 decree places 6 April in the category of public holidays that are non-working and paid. The decree fixes the commemoration on that date.[1]
In reporting on the 2024 commemoration, the Presidency noted that public holidays are not necessarily all non-working, and reported that the President went on to inaugurate a school that day. Check directly with any office, bank, shop or transport operator before making plans.[4]
Frequently asked questions
When is Ntaryamira Day?
It is observed on 6 April, the date named in Burundi’s 2021 public-holiday decree.[1]
Who is remembered on the day?
The commemoration honours former Burundian President Cyprien Ntaryamira, who died in Rwanda on 6 April 1994 alongside Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana.[2]
Is it a day off?
What is open on Ntaryamira Day?
Check with each provider before making plans, as some activity may continue on a public holiday.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for Ntaryamira Day in Burundi:
- DECRET N°100/150 DU 07 JUIN 2021 PORTANT MODIFICATION DU DECRET N° 100/182 DU 17 JUILLET 2006 FIXANT LA LISTE ET LE REGIME DES JOURS FERIES- Présidence de la République du Burundi
- Le Burundi commémore le 27ème anniversaire de l’Assassinat du Président Cyprien Ntaryamira- Présidence de la République du Burundi
- Commémoration du 29ème anniversaire de l’assassinat du Président Ntaryamira- Présidence de la République du Burundi
- “Tous les jours fériés ne doivent pas forcément être chômés”- Présidence de la République du Burundi