BUBANZA, Oct 3 (ABP) – Elderly individuals expressed regret over living in precarious conditions despite having contributed to the development of the country during their active years, it was reported on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, during the celebration of the International Day of Older Persons in Bubanza commune (North-West Burundi), by members of the association Abahumure twarakoze, dusazane iteka n’ijambo (“Elderly people, we worked in the past: let us age with honor and dignity”).
Some of them, especially those who formerly lived off farming, told ABP that they now live in poverty and are unable to meet their basic needs, lamenting that they are no longer physically able to work.
At times, they said, they are mistreated by their own sons who attempt to seize their land without their knowledge. Antoine Bindariye, aged 83, living in the Ruvumvu neighborhood in Bubanza commune, said that his two sons forcibly sold part of his land, later threatening him and accusing him of witchcraft.
Others lament being dragged into various judicial proceedings far from their homes by neighbors or relatives, knowing full well they can no longer make the journey, it was reported on site.
Jacques Kenese, national leader of the association, called on the State to support this category of Burundians, especially in terms of health care, legal assistance, and by establishing centers for the elderly, among other measures. He added that it would be better to make pension contributions mandatory from an early age for those who are able and to establish a fund for those who cannot afford to contribute.
It is worth noting that the association has over 1,000 registered members in Bubanza commune.