Press Release

01 July 2012

Minister Nkoana-Mashabane to attend Burundi Independence Day

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, will represent President JG Zuma at the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Burundi’s independence. The event will be held in Bujumbura on 02 July 2012.

Burundi gained its independence from Belgium on 01 July 1962, although the actual commemoration will be held on 02 July 2012.

Relations between South Africa and Burundi are excellent. At the beginning of this year, President Pierre Nkurunziza joined other Heads of State and Government at the ANC’s Centenary celebration in Mangaung.

South Africa’s involvement in Burundi is currently focussed on strengthening bilateral relations, with a strong emphasis on Burundi’s Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD) endeavours, assistance with the establishment a Truth and Reconciliation Commission and investigations regarding socio-economic and infrastructure development opportunities.

For further information, please contact Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, on 082 884 5974

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation

OR Tambo Building

460 Soutpansberg Road

Rietondale

Pretoria