The Burundi National Defense Force (FDNB) has officially launched its 2025-2026 training year, marking a renewed commitment to strengthening operational capacity across its ranks.
Lieutenant General Niyongabo Prime inaugurated the training program at the 3rd military division in Butanyerera, Kayanza commune, underscoring the importance of rigorous planning and tactical exercises throughout the year.
“The training activities will extend throughout the year, punctuated by an opening day and a closing day,” Lieutenant General Niyongabo said, noting that the closing ceremonies will feature competitive exercises reflecting lessons learned. This marks a continuation of efforts to enhance the FDNB’s readiness and effectiveness in line with Burundi’s foreign and security policies.
Burundi’s military tradition runs deep, rooted in the ancient kingdom known as Ingoma y’Uburundi, a state with over a thousand years of history.
The Burundian army, historically known as Ingabo z’Umwami, evolved from warrior traditions such as the Intore and Bahigi, linked to symbolic brotherhoods like the elephant, leopard, and lion tamers.
Through centuries, these warrior classes adapted under various kings — from Ntare wi Nkoma to Mwambutsa Bangiricenge — reflecting the nation’s enduring martial culture.
This historic legacy faced challenges during colonial and post-colonial eras.
The 19th century saw resistance to European colonial powers under leaders like Mwami Mwezi Gisabo.
Belgian colonial rule marginalized traditional forces in favor of the Public Force until Burundi’s independence in 1962.
Following decades of military dictatorships and a devastating civil war (1993-2003) with millions of casualties, the FDNB emerged as a unified force, incorporating former rebel groups such as the Forces for the Defense of Democracy (FDD).
Today, Burundi aims to break free from neocolonial constraints by reasserting its sovereignty through a defense force anchored in both ancient traditions and modern strategic realities.
This vision echoes the ambitions of leaders like Gaddafi and Mandela to create a unified African Standby Force capable of protecting the continent’s sovereignty.
For Burundi, this means blending the heritage of the Ingabo z’Umwami with contemporary military demands to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape and reaffirm its place in a changing world.
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