Burundi - They Say, We Say...

Other countries say...

"In light of continuing political tensions, all areas of Burundi are potentially unstable. Fighting between rebel forces and the Burundian military continues to be a problem in the outskirts of the capital, as well as in the surrounding Bujumbura Rural, Cibitoke and Bubanza provinces. Burundian rebels regularly attack vehicles on the roadways. In July 2003, the U.S. Embassy temporarily evacuated non-emergency staff after sustained rebel attacks on Bujumbura. Rebels continue to operate in the Bujumbura Rural province surrounding the capital, and have launched several rocket and mortar attacks on the city. Local authorities are unable to guarantee safety. A nationwide curfew is in place and the U.S. Embassy maintains its own curfew for its employees. The U.S. Embassy emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant and respecting any curfews in effect. " US State Department

"We therefore continue to advise against all travel outside Bujumbura except with an official UN escort, which will have assessed the security situation prior to giving authorisation. We continue to advise against using the Bujumbura to Butare (Rwanda) road, on which there are still occasional ambushes, again unless as part of an official UN convoy.

If you must enter Burundi despite this advice, you should exercise extreme caution. You should regularly review the situation and consider whether your presence is essential. All British nationals in Burundi should register at the Belgian Embassy and seek their advice on the latest situation." The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Burundi says...

"The geographical position of Burundi in the heart of Africa and its wonderful landscapes are making the country a real paradise which is sometimes called "The SWITZERLAND IN AFRICA." The soft and temperature climate in Burundi as well as the variety of its geographical structure are making the country the best place for holidays and relaxation.

"But the relaxation would be more thrilling in Burundi, a country which is very well known for its legendary hospitality, if you can visit the whole of it . Then, you may discover that "Eden Garden," like the explorers of the last century in the very middle of the African continent.

"It is necessary to know the kind of harmonious patchwork which is made by the climate as it varies from one region to another. So, the area of the peak Congo Nile, which is covered with the big Kibira forest has got a pleasant heigh climate, soft and temperature. A delicious tropical is found within the region of the Central plateau and the thousands of hills surrounding, as well as the depressions in the Eastern and North-Eastern part of Burundi."Embassy of Burundi in Berlin.