Golden Jubilee Celebration

The Anglican Diocese of Bujumbura proudly marks fifty years of existence, having been established in 1975 as a daughter diocese of the Diocese of Buye, which was founded in 1965. This milestone reflects a long journey rooted in faith, service, and community transformation.

Historical Background

The origins of the Anglican Church in this region date back to 1935, when missionary work began in Buhiga, Matana, and Buye. This mission was initiated by two British missionaries, Stanley Smith and Leonard Sharp, in collaboration with a Ugandan evangelist, Kosiya Shalita. Their pioneering efforts laid the spiritual and institutional foundation upon which the Diocese of Bujumbura would later be built.

Growth and Early Leadership

Since its creation in 1975, the Diocese of Bujumbura has played a vital role in spreading the Gospel throughout the city of Bujumbura and across the southern region of the country. Under the leadership of its first Bishop, Rt. Rev. Samuel Sindamuka, the Diocese expanded significantly by focusing on three key pillars: proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ, improving community health through the establishment of hospitals, and advancing education by building schools and training future leaders. Through these efforts, churches, schools, and health facilities were established across the region. This steady growth led to the creation of the Diocese of Matana in 1990, with Bishop Pio Ntukamazina appointed to lead the new diocese, while Bishop Sindamuka continued guiding the Diocese of Bujumbura.

Sustained Development and Expansion

Under the leadership of Bishop Pio Ntukamazina, the Diocese continued to promote holistic development by addressing spiritual, intellectual, and physical needs. Evangelism expanded across all age groups, church infrastructure improved with the construction of modern buildings, and theological training was strengthened to prepare church leaders. At the same time, the Diocese invested in education at all levels, improved healthcare services, and supported community development through initiatives in agriculture, livestock, fishing, savings groups, and environmental protection. This sustained growth eventually led to the establishment of the Diocese of Rumonge in 2013. During this period, Bishop Eraste Bigirimana began serving alongside Bishop Ntukamazina before later assuming full leadership of the Diocese of Bujumbura.

Leadership Today: A Vision for the Future

Today, under the leadership of Bishop Eraste Bigirimana, the Diocese continues to thrive with a renewed commitment to evangelism and sustainable development. His leadership places strong emphasis on the spiritual formation of pastors, the strengthening of church leadership, and the expansion of evangelistic outreach. The Diocese also actively addresses key challenges such as poverty, hunger, and climate change, while encouraging the Church to play a transformative role in society.

A Testament of God’s Faithfulness

Reflecting on the past fifty years, the Diocese expresses deep gratitude and joins together in declaring the words of Psalm 126:3: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”

Golden Jubilee Closing Celebration

On October 25, 2025, the Diocese of Bujumbura officially concluded its Golden Jubilee celebrations, which had begun on October 26, 2024. The event was marked by great joy and thanksgiving under the theme, “The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.”

During the celebration, several important milestones were achieved as the Diocese prepared for the next phase of its mission. New leaders were ordained and commissioned into service, including deacons, priests, and canons, while various groups were recognized and awarded for their dedication and contributions to the Church. All those commissioned were entrusted with the responsibility of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ, with a vision of reaching even more people by the time the Diocese celebrates its centenary.

Distinguished Guests and Recognition

The celebration brought together a wide range of distinguished guests, including Anglican Bishops from across Burundi, a delegation from Kenya led by the Bishop of the Diocese of Mount Kenya South, government representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, ecumenical partners, non-governmental organizations, clergy, and a large number of faithful from different dioceses. A representative of the Head of State congratulated the Diocese for its fifty years of faithful service, highlighting its significant contribution to both spiritual growth and national development.

Looking Ahead

In his address, Bishop Eraste Bigirimana emphasized that while the first fifty years have been completed, the Diocese is now entering a new season marked by renewed energy and commitment to evangelism. He highlighted the vision of expanding outreach to areas where the Gospel has not yet reached and even sending missionaries beyond national borders.

The celebration concluded in a spirit of unity, joy, and fellowship, as participants shared a communal meal together.