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burundi

Introduction

Burundi is a landlocked country located in East Africa, bordered by Rwanda to the north, Tanzania to the southeast, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the south, Uganda to the southwest, Kenya to the west, and South Sudan to the northeast. With a population of approximately 12 million people, Burundi is one of the poorest countries in the world.

Key Facts

  • Population: approximately 12 million
  • Capital city: Bujumbura
  • Language: Kirundi (official), English (widely spoken)
  • Currency: Burundian franc (BIF)
  • Area: 27,830 km² (10,714 sq mi) - roughly the size of Pennsylvania
  • Climate: tropical with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year
  • GDP per capita: approximately $260 (2020 est.)
  • Life expectancy at birth: approximately 55 years (2020 est.)

Historical Context

Burundi has a complex history that spans over two centuries. The country was colonized by Germany in the late 19th century and became part of German East Africa, followed by Italian occupation during World War I. After World War II, Burundi gained independence from both Britain and Italy.

In the mid-1960s, Burundian President Mwambutsa IV led a coup against his government, which was supported by the United Nations. The resulting civil war pitted the Hutu majority against the Tutsi minority, with many Burundians caught in the middle.

The country experienced significant unrest and violence during this period, including ethnic cleansing attacks on the Tutsi population. In 1966, a new constitution was adopted, which granted Tutsis disproportionate representation in government.

In 1993, a civil war broke out between the Hutu majority and the Tutsi minority, with the latter receiving support from Rwanda. The conflict escalated into violence, with thousands of people killed or displaced.

Significant Contributions

  • Burundi is home to several national parks and wildlife reserves, including Mount Heha National Park and Lake Tanganyika.
  • The country has a strong tradition of music and dance, with traditional instruments like the ngoma drum and the kudungumbei dance.
  • Burundian cuisine features dishes such as malwa (a sweet flatbread) and kibinda (grilled meat).
  • The country has made significant contributions to African development through the United Nations Development Programme

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  • Generation time: 2024-11-01 16:36:08
  • Keywords: burundi, wiki, history, facts
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