BUJUMBURA August 11th (ABP) – The Minister of National Solidarity, Social Affairs, Human Rights and Gender, Mrs. Imelde Sabushimike, released on Tuesday, August 9, 2023, a statement relating to the celebration of the international Day dedicated to indigenous peoples, which is celebrated on August 9 each year.
According to Mrs. Sabushimike, the said Day was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 23, 2014. Therefore, indigenous peoples have the opportunity to come together at the level of countries, regions or continents, in order to live the joy of expressing oneself freely after many years spent in obscurity, oppression, exclusion and marginalization.
At the global level, the theme that has been chosen is “Indigenous youth, agents of change for self-determination”. According to her, the theme fits well with the role of indigenous youth in decision-making, while recognizing their efforts in climate action, the search for justice for their peoples, the creation of an intergenerational bond, maintaining their culture, tradition and living contribution as well as the implementation of development programs in their locality.
According to Minister Sabushimike, the Day comes at a time when, in Burundi, the principle of non-discrimination is a reality. According to her, the Batwa community finds itself included in the process of strengthening harmony and socio-economic development.
The ceremonies marking the celebration of the Day will take place in the province of Ruyigi, on August 18, 2023. She took the opportunity to make a strong appeal to the Burundian population in general and that of the Ruyigi province, to respond to the Day’s activities.