GITEGA, March 11 (ABP) – Violence against women, particularly those living with disabilities, continues to occur in Burundi. This observation was made during a testimony delivered on the occasion of activities marking the celebration of International Women’s Rights Day, organized last weekend in the city of Gitega (political capital and center of Burundi) for women living with disabilities, ABP learned on the spot. These activities were organized within the framework of the Ndinkabandi project implemented by the Network of Centers for Persons with Disabilities of Burundi (RCPHB), in collaboration with Care Burundi and COPED with funding from the European Union.
During this meeting, Mrs. Léonie Ndayikeze, a former teacher at the Gashawe basic school in Ruyigi commune, Buhumuza province, indicated that she became blind after someone poured a harmful substance into her eyes.
She also deplored the fact that her husband, who had gone to Bujumbura to receive treatment, was later dismissed from his job, accused of abandoning his post, even though he had asked for permission. He was even imprisoned, she added. This couple, who lived in Rusengo zone, then took refuge in Gitega. She claims that the alleged perpetrator of her blindness is moving around freely.
Mrs. Ndayikeze explained that in July 2024, while she had just given birth by cesarean section, the owner of the house they occupied destroyed it and that they filed a complaint with the courts, but no action was taken. She added that their property was also looted. Later, she was attacked one evening while returning from a shop, and the attacker threw a substance similar to chili pepper into her face, which caused her to lose her sight. She states that she once again referred the matter to the courts, but a solution has still not been found.
Mrs. Ndayikeze also indicated that she sent a letter to the minister of national education and scientific research requesting a transfer to a school in Gitega that receives visually impaired or blind students, but she is still patiently waiting for a response. She says she is deeply saddened by the inaction of the justice system, especially since the person accused is free even though he admitted the facts before the court. She also asks to be restored in her rights and to obtain a position in a school specialized for the visually impaired, noting that she masters Braille writing.
Various participants in these ceremonies expressed their solidarity with this family. The deputy Suavis Habonarugira, elected in Gitega province, encouraged the victim, stating that her testimony has been heard and that she hopes measures will be taken to deliver justice to this family.
For his part, the chief of staff to the governor of Gitega province, Mr. Gérard Nibigira, indicated that the provincial authorities will discuss with other officials to examine possible solutions to this situation.
The national coordinator of the Ndinkabandi project, Mr. Pierre Simbaruhije, for his part called on anyone of good will to provide support to this woman so that she may regain her dignity. He also urged the authorities to continue promoting peace and peaceful coexistence among citizens.
Note that these activities were marked by an exhibition and sale of products made by women living with disabilities and various games such as Goalball and Sitting volleyball. All the teams that participated in the competitions received prizes consisting notably of sports outfits and encouragement envelopes.