Bujumbura, 23 August 2026 — The Most Revd Eraste Bigirimana, Bishop of the Diocese of Bujumbura, was officially installed as the sixth Archbishop and Primate of the Province of the Anglican Church of Burundi during a solemn service held on Sunday, 23 August 2026, at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Bujumbura.
The historic celebration brought together Anglican bishops and church leaders from Burundi and neighbouring countries, as well as representatives of other Christian denominations, government authorities, diplomatic missions, partner organisations and various institutions.
Among the distinguished guests were the Most Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, Archbishop of Canterbury, who preached at the service; the Rt Revd Dr Jo Wells, Deputy Secretary General of the Anglican Communion; and Canon Maggie Swinson, Chair of the Anglican Consultative Council. Bishops and representatives from the Anglican Churches of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania and Uganda also attended the occasion. The Government of Burundi was represented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation.
Archbishop Eraste Bigirimana was elected Primate of the Province on 21 May 2026. He succeeds the Most Revd Sixbert Macumi, who served as Archbishop and Primate from 2021. As Bishop of the Diocese of Bujumbura, Archbishop Eraste now takes on this wider provincial responsibility while continuing to serve the Church and communities entrusted to his pastoral leadership.
His installation marks the beginning of a new chapter in the life and mission of the Anglican Church of Burundi, as the Province continues its ministry of proclaiming the Gospel, serving communities and strengthening the unity of the Church.
Ahead of his installation, Archbishop Eraste expressed his hope that his ministry would usher in “a new season of unity, spiritual renewal and faithful service to the people of God.” He also called for continued prayer as the Church works together to advance Christ’s mission in Burundi and beyond.
In her sermon, the Archbishop of Canterbury reflected on Jesus’ teaching in John 21:15–17, where Peter is entrusted with the responsibility of caring for Christ’s flock. She also referred to 1 Peter 5:1–4, in which Peter encourages church leaders to serve willingly as shepherds of God’s people. Addressing Archbishop Eraste, Archbishop Sarah emphasised the calling of church leaders to serve, nurture the people of God, uphold the unity of the Church and bear witness to the Gospel of Christ. She encouraged him to exercise his ministry as a servant leader and to remain committed to the Church’s mission in a world in need of hope.
During the installation, Archbishop Eraste Bigirimana pledged to uphold justice, truth and love in the ministry entrusted to him. He expressed his determination to be an example to the flock of Christ and to fulfil his responsibilities with the help of God.
The installation at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Bujumbura was marked by prayer, worship, music and fellowship, bringing together representatives of the Anglican Church, other Christian traditions, public authorities, different nations and a wide range of organisations.
May God grant him wisdom, strength and grace as he serves the Church, the people of Burundi and the wider Anglican Communion.