Burundi Keeps Rwanda Border Closed, Citing Security Concerns
Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye has once again spoken about the closure of the border with Rwanda, saying the decision is rooted in protecting his country’s security. He made the remarks in an interview published on April 18, 2025, by Yaga Burundi, a media outlet on YouTube.
The president of Burundi, explained that while the land border remains shut, air travel between the two nations is still allowed. He noted that passengers arriving by plane can be easily identified and monitored, which makes air routes safer in his view.
Burundi closed the border on January 11, 2024, accusing Rwanda of hosting and supporting members of the RED-Tabara rebel group. The group, originally from Burundi, has long opposed the government and was linked to attempts to overthrow former President Pierre Nkurunziza in 2015. Kigali has denied the accusations.
Despite the closure, Ndayishimiye described Rwanda as a “brotherly nation.” He stressed that the two countries continue to meet in African Union and other international gatherings, showing that dialogue has not been completely cut off.
The shutdown has disrupted trade and daily movement across the border, affecting communities on both sides. Civil society voices have urged reconciliation, but the president insists the border will only reopen once Burundi feels secure from rebel threats.
