The Burundi government has declared a prohibition on the importation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), with the director-general of mobilisation for self-development and agriculture extension, Clement Ndikumasabo, stating that GMOs are completely banned, including hybrids which require authorization for import. This stance comes despite some East African Community member states opening up to GMO products.

Relations between Burundi and Rwanda are deteriorating, with Rwanda accusing Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye of inciting division among Rwandans. Burundi has denied these allegations, calling them unfounded.

South Sudan, led by President Salva Kiir, is set to assume the chairmanship of the East African Community (EAC), taking over from Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye. The EAC is facing challenges with member states defaulting on their financial dues, with South Sudan being the largest defaulter, owing about $30 million. The Democratic Republic of Congo, a new member, has not yet contributed to its arrears. The upcoming EAC Heads of State Summit will address issues such as climate change and food security. The East African Legislative Assembly is considering a motion to suspend member states that fail to meet their financial obligations. South Sudan is criticized for its lack of engagement in the EAC and is still grappling with implementing the EAC Customs Union and Common Market. President Kiir will also oversee the regional bloc's discussions on peace and security, particularly in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Kenya's EAC Affairs Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza joined the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) as an ex-officio member, with a commitment to promote regional integration. She succeeded Rebecca Miano and will participate in EALA sessions in Arusha, although she will not have voting rights as per Article 48 of the EAC treaty.

Burundi is set to launch its first malaria vaccination program in July, receiving 500,000 doses to vaccinate 250,000 children across 25 districts. This initiative is part of the US President's Malaria Initiative, with significant investments from USAid. The program aims to combat the high malaria incidence in Burundi, which saw a 31% increase between 2015 and 2022. The Mosquirix (RTS,S) vaccine, developed by GSK, will be used, following successful pilot programs in other African countries. The initiative highlights the need for better data collection to effectively manage malaria cases.

Burundi will allow the importation of sugar and cement to address shortages and curb black market prices. The government acknowledged the insufficiency of state-run Sosumo's sugar and Buceco's cement, approving other financially capable operators to import these products. Price increases proposed by beer maker Brarudi and cement manufacturer Buceco are contingent on their plans to boost production. The government also aims to revamp Sosumo's production capacity and enforce official prices. Additionally, Burundi faces a fuel shortage, driving motorists to the black market.

Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye has reshuffled his Cabinet, replacing four ministers. The announcement was made on the state broadcaster RTNB by the Secretary General of Government Prosper Ntahorwamiye. The new appointments include Dr Liduine Baradahana for Public Health and the Fight against HIV, Prosper Dodiko for Environment, Agriculture and Raring, Venuste Muyabaga for Civil Service, Labour and Employment, and Gervais Abayeho for Foreign Affairs. This reshuffle is part of a series of changes made by President Ndayishimiye since his office tenure began in 2020, including firing the prime minister and revoking 35 magistrates.

The East African Community (EAC) has increased its budget for the 2023/24 financial year to $103.84 million, an 11 percent rise from the previous year. The budget, presented by Burundi’s minister Ezechiel Nibigira, aims to source 57 percent of the funds from member states and the rest from development partners. Despite global economic challenges, the EAC region saw economic growth improve to 4.8 percent in 2022. The EAC Secretariat will receive the largest budget share at 49 percent, followed by the East African Legislative Assembly at 17 percent. The budget also allocates funds to various EAC institutions, although the bloc faces challenges due to delayed or non-remittance of funds by member states.

The East African Community is working to harmonize laws on Genetically Modified Organisms across its eight member states. Regional lawmakers have begun consulting and scrutinizing existing policies as part of this initiative.

Internally displaced persons in Gatumba, Burundi, are struggling to maintain health amid ongoing challenges such as floods and cholera outbreaks. The government, through the National Platform for the Prevention and Management of Natural Disasters, is working on risk management and early warning systems, including constructing a dyke to prevent flooding. Health workers in the camp emphasize the need for more resources and support to handle the increasing health risks, particularly cholera, as the rainy season begins.

The East African Business Council is advocating for liberalized trade within the East African Community (EAC), despite challenges with the free movement of goods and persons since the signing of the common market protocol over a decade ago. Private sector businesses, companies, and EAC ministers from Uganda and Burundi are attending a summit to discuss economic growth, including tax harmonization, investment opportunities, and climate change. The EAC has seen a 15% increase in intra-regional trade in 2023 compared to 2022. The African Continental Free Trade Area, ratified by 43 African countries, aims to create a single market of over 1.4 billion people on the continent.

Burundi launched the second round of a house-to-house polio vaccination campaign on 17 August, targeting over 2.7 million children to combat the resurfacing poliovirus. The campaign follows the Health Ministry's declaration of a circulating poliovirus type 2 outbreak in March, the first in over three decades. The resurgence was identified through environmental surveillance and confirmed cases, including a four-year-old child from Isale. Despite challenges due to public ignorance about polio, efforts are being made to educate and vaccinate the population, with significant involvement from local and religious leaders. The World Health Organization highlights the critical nature of polio, which primarily affects children under five and can cause paralysis.

Somalia is on track to become the eighth member of the East African Community (EAC) this year, according to EAC Secretary-General Peter Mathuki. Following a verification mission and subsequent negotiations, Somalia's readiness to join the bloc has been affirmed. The negotiations will address EAC's pillars of integration and harmonize Somalia's laws with those of the region. The final report will be submitted to the EAC Heads of State Summit for a political declaration, leading to Somalia's formal admission.

The East African Community (EAC) has increased its budget for the 2023/24 financial year to $103.84 million, an 11 percent rise from the previous year. The budget, presented by Burundi's minister Ezechiel Nibigira, aims to source 57 percent of the funds from member states and the remaining 43 percent from development partners.

Burundi has declared it will maintain a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, emphasizing peaceful resolution through dialogue. This position was reiterated during Sergey Lavrov's visit, the first by a top Russian official to Burundi in 60 years. Lavrov's tour, which included a stop in Kenya, is part of Russia's efforts to retain allies in Africa amid Western isolation due to the Ukrainian invasion. African countries have largely refrained from condemning Russia in UN votes. Lavrov is set to attend a BRICS ministerial meeting in South Africa.

Burundi's Attorney-General Sylvestre Nyandwi confirmed the arrest of former prime minister Alain-Guillaume Bunyoni, who was found hiding in Kabezi Commune, Bujumbura, on April 21. The Attorney-General stated that the findings from the investigation will be handed over to him for appropriate legal action. The announcement follows an earlier operation on April 17 that did not result in Bunyoni's capture.

Burundi’s National Independent Human Rights Commission confirmed that former Prime Minister Alain-Guillaume Bunyoni is in custody and in good health. Bunyoni, who went missing on April 17, was wanted by the Office of the Prosecutor General, though charges were not disclosed. His arrest follows his removal from office last September after a fallout with President Evariste Ndayishimiye. A nationwide manhunt was launched, and there were false reports of him fleeing to Tanzania.

Joseph Ntakirutimana became the new Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) after South Sudan withdrew its candidates shortly before the vote, allowing him to win unopposed. The EALA is facing financial difficulties, with South Sudan and Burundi being the largest defaulters. The new Speaker, a veteran Burundian politician, is tasked with addressing budget issues, fostering relations between member states, and accommodating the linguistic diversity of the Assembly.

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir, in his capacity as the East African Community (EAC) chairman, visited Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to address rising tensions in the region. The visit followed the expiration of the EAC Regional Forces' mandate and increased conflict in Eastern DRC. Kiir's discussions with leaders aimed to support the EAC-led Nairobi Process and Luanda Process for peace. The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels, which Rwanda denies, and Burundi has closed its borders with Rwanda, alleging support for the Red-Tabara armed group. The African Union Commission called for dialogue, and the South African Development Community has deployed forces to assist the DRC.

Burundi will launch its first malaria vaccination program in July, receiving half a million doses. The initiative is supported by USAid and the US President's Malaria Initiative, with collaboration from the Ministry of Health and the National Malaria Strategic Plan. The announcement was made by Dr. Louise Mahan and Dr. David Walton, highlighting a new partnership aimed at effective vaccine distribution.

Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye is set to lead the Regional Oversight Mechanism for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with support from the African Union and UN. The East African Community Summit in Bujumbura called for a ceasefire and a new withdrawal plan for rebel groups. Ndayishimiye's role in regional politics is increasing, with Burundi recently having EU sanctions lifted and a UN mission closed. The summit was attended by leaders from Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and DRC, marking the first visit of Rwanda's President Kagame to Burundi in nearly a decade. The peace process faces challenges with accusations of support for M23 violence and territorial violations between DRC and Rwanda. Defence chiefs will meet in Nairobi to discuss the withdrawal of rebel movements and the role of the East African Community Regional Force.

Burundi is focusing on local tourism to revive its tourism sector, which has suffered due to travel restrictions and the COVID-19 pandemic. The country saw a significant drop in visitors from 2.6 million in 2019 to 553,389 in 2020. President Evariste Ndayishimiye has initiated a domestic tourism circuit to boost the sector. The pandemic led to the closure of airspace and borders, severely impacting tourism.

Burundi has declared a cholera outbreak in Bujumbura, with at least nine cases confirmed. The outbreak is attributed to heavy rains causing toilet overflows and poor hygiene. The government has initiated emergency measures, including disinfection and public awareness campaigns. The World Health Organisation and Doctors Without Borders provide historical context on cholera cases in the region.

Joseph Ntakirutimana, Burundi’s ruling party deputy secretary-general, has been elected as the Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) with 54 out of 63 votes. South Sudan withdrew its three candidates to support Burundi, aiming for regional unity and future support. Ntakirutimana, who has served in Burundi's parliament for 30 years, succeeds Rwanda’s Martin Ngoga.

Burundi has nominated Joseph Ntakarutimana, deputy secretary-general of the ruling party CNDD-FDD, for the position of Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). He will compete against South Sudan's Ann Itto and Gai Deng. The election is scheduled for December 20. The article highlights the candidates' objectives and the historical context of the Speaker's position within the East African Community. Burundi, South Sudan, and DR Congo are the only member states yet to hold the Speaker's position. The EALA will now have 63 lawmakers following the inclusion of DR Congo.

The East African Legislative Assembly has passed the East African Financial Services Commission Bill 2022, which aims to establish a commission to integrate financial systems and harmonize supervisory and regulatory practices in the non-bank financial sector within the East African Community. The bill is part of the East African Community's integration process, following the Customs Union and the Common Market Protocol. The Monetary Union, the third pillar, has had its deadline for implementation proposed to be extended to 2031.

Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye has committed to prioritizing youth in key economic roles to boost the country's economy. Addressing the business community, he criticized current investors for not contributing to development and emphasized youth entrepreneurship and industrialization. The government aims to finance the Youth Economic Empowerment and Employment Programme. Despite challenges from suspended direct aid by the EU and the US since 2015, the IMF projects increased public investment and fiscal deficit containment through donor financing and revenue reforms.

The United States has sanctioned Burundi’s former prime minister Alain Guillaume Bunyoni for alleged human rights violations. The US Department of State cited Section 7031(c) and Executive Order 13818, which implements the Global Magnitsky Act, to justify the sanctions. Bunyoni, who served as minister for internal security during Pierre Nkurunziza's regime, is accused of involvement in human rights abuses during the 2015 political crisis in Burundi. The sanctions come as US-Burundi relations have improved, with the Biden administration lifting previous sanctions on Burundi in November last year.

The East African Community (EAC) is facing significant funding challenges, with member states like South Sudan and Burundi owing substantial arrears. An audit report by the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) reveals that delayed or non-remittance of funds is hindering the implementation of EAC's programs. The EAC's budget, primarily funded by member contributions and development partners, has seen a decline, affecting nearly half of its planned activities. EALA members are urging the Council of Ministers to address these funding shortfalls and explore alternative funding mechanisms to ensure the community can fulfill its mandate.

Former Kenyan president Uhuru Kenyatta arrived in Bujumbura, Burundi, to meet with President Evariste Ndayishimiye for discussions on the crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Kenyatta, the East African Community (EAC) facilitator for the DRC peace process, is accompanied by EAC Secretary-General Peter Mathuki. The meeting aims to harmonize regional views on managing the security crisis in eastern DRC, with an extraordinary summit of EAC heads of state expected to follow. The crisis has intensified with armed confrontations between DRC forces and M23 rebels, leading to mass displacements and protests in Goma against alleged Rwandan and Ugandan support for the rebels.

Kenyan troops are set to be deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as part of a regional response to the conflict in eastern DRC, following a decision from the East African Community (EAC) Heads of State Conclave on Peace and Security. Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye, the chairman of the EAC heads of state summit, has initiated consultations for a meeting of the heads of defence forces to address the crisis. The conflict has escalated with fighting between DRC forces and M23 rebels, leading to mass displacement. Rwanda has been accused of supporting M23, which Rwanda denies. President Paul Kagame of Rwanda reaffirmed his commitment to peace in the region, despite the expulsion of Rwanda's ambassador from DRC. The EAC standby force's deployment, ordered by Kenya's former president Uhuru Kenyatta, has not been officially announced since June.

Burundi has condemned the misuse of its traditional and sacred drums at the Nyege Nyege festival in Uganda, highlighting cultural violations. The Ministry of EAC, Culture and Sports expressed its disapproval, emphasizing that women playing the drums contradicts Burundian customs. The 2017 presidential decree outlines penalties for unauthorized drum exhibitions. The Burundian drum, a significant cultural element inscribed in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list, holds historical importance and is traditionally used in significant national events.

Rwandan artist Bruce Itahiwacu, known as Bruce Melodie, was arrested upon arrival in Bujumbura, Burundi, where he was scheduled to perform two shows. He is being investigated for fraud related to a 2018 incident where he allegedly breached a contract by not attending a gig despite having been paid. The promoter, Toussaint, is seeking reimbursement with interest. Bruce Melodie, who rose to fame in 2011 and is the CEO of Igitangaza Music Label, was still in custody at the time of reporting.

The East African Legislative Assembly paid tribute to Kenya’s former president Mwai Kibaki, who passed away on April 22. Members highlighted his contributions to Kenya and the East African Community, including his role in implementing free primary education, stabilizing Kenya post-2007 election violence, and advancing the EAC's Customs Union and Common Market Protocols. Kibaki was remembered as a non-confrontational leader and a true East African who valued democracy and economic development.

Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi arrived in Bujumbura for a three-day state visit to Burundi, marking his first visit since DRC's admission into the East African Community. He was received by Burundi’s Foreign Affairs minister Albert Shingiro and met with President Evariste Ndayishimiye. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and economic cooperation in agriculture, defense, security, and a railway project linking Tanzania, Burundi, and DRC. Tshisekedi will also visit agricultural organizations and lay a wreath on former president Pierre Nkurunziza’s grave.

Rwanda-Burundi relations are set to improve further as Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye emphasizes the importance of handing over 2015 coup plotters hiding in Kigali to face justice. Talks between the two countries have been ongoing to normalize relations that deteriorated seven years ago. High-level delegations have met several times, and positive steps have been taken, including the exchange of individuals involved in attacks. The diplomatic efforts are expected to continue, fostering better relations between the neighboring countries.

The East African Community tabled a $91.5 million budget for the financial year 2022-2023, marking a decline from previous years. The regional economy is expected to slow down due to rising commodity prices exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Concerns were raised by the East African Legislative Assembly members over the shrinking budget despite the community's growth and expansion, including the integration of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The budget allocation includes contributions from partner states and development partners, with significant portions going to various EAC institutions.

Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye received a high-level delegation from Rwanda led by Major General Albert Murasira, Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, in Gitega. This visit is part of ongoing efforts to normalize relations between the two countries, which have been strained since 2015. The meeting follows a series of positive steps, including the exchange of detained individuals suspected of planning attacks. Despite improved diplomatic relations, the land border between the two countries remains closed, although air travel continues without restrictions.

The East African Community's goal to implement a Monetary Union Protocol by 2024 is unlikely to be met due to delays in establishing necessary laws and institutions. An audit report by the East African Legislative Assembly highlights that four key bills are pending, and essential institutions like the East African Monetary Institute and others have not been operationalized. Eala member George Odongo criticizes the lack of progress, attributing it to lengthy decision-making processes. The Monetary Union Protocol also requires partner states to meet specific economic criteria and fully implement Customs Union and Common Market Protocols, which have not yet been achieved.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed optimism about the normalization of relations between Rwanda and Burundi, highlighting significant progress since 2015. Relations had soured due to political crises and mutual accusations, but have improved notably since Burundian President Evariste Ndayihsimiye took office in 2020. High-level meetings and cooperative security efforts have marked the thaw, including the repatriation of refugees and the exchange of captured armed men. Kagame emphasized ongoing discussions to resolve border security issues permanently.

Domitien Ndayizeye, former president of Burundi, has been appointed to the African Union's 5th Panel of the Wise by the Heads of State and government of the AU member states. The Panel of the Wise supports the Peace and Security Commission's work in conflict prevention. Ndayizeye's presidency was a transitional period leading to the current CNDD-FDD regime. His appointment allows him to serve a three-year term starting from February 2022. The Panel, established in 2007, addresses issues such as non-impunity and electoral disputes.

Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye led traditional dancers in a nationwide tour to promote Burundian culture, culminating in Gitega. The event featured traditional drummers and emphasized the importance of preserving cultural practices. The royal drum, a significant cultural symbol, was highlighted, and the president's involvement was praised. The tour aimed to boost domestic tourism, which has suffered due to the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly reducing tourist numbers from over 2.6 million in 2019 to 553,389 in 2020.

Burundi is focusing on domestic tourism to revive its tourism sector, which has been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. President Evariste Ndayishimiye has initiated a domestic tourism circuit to promote national pride and cultural values. The government has also introduced visa on arrival for foreign nationals to boost tourism and investment. Despite the sector's significant contribution to foreign exchange earnings, it remains underfunded. The East African Community (EAC) region has also seen a substantial decline in tourism due to the pandemic, with significant economic losses and job reductions.

Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye announced plans to release and grant amnesty to political prisoners as a New Year's gift, continuing his efforts to improve human rights and political reconciliation in the country. This move follows his previous amnesty decree in March 2021, which released over 5,000 prisoners. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's recent report, which identified the 1972 massacre as a genocide against the Hutu, underscores the government's commitment to addressing past ethnic violence and promoting national unity. The UN and other human rights organizations have criticized Burundi for arbitrary arrests and torture since 2015, but Ndayishimiye's administration aims to mend international relations and uphold the rule of law.

At least 38 inmates died and 69 were injured in a fire at Gitega's central prison in Burundi, caused by a short circuit. The fire was quickly controlled by the fire brigade. Out of the injured, 34 were hospitalized while 35 received minor treatments within the prison. The incident prompted immediate visits from Burundi's Vice President and several ministers. The Vice President emphasized the need for authorized technicians to handle electrical wiring to prevent such incidents in the future.

The 11th East African Inter-Parliamentary Games commenced in Arusha, Tanzania, marking the first-time participation of Zanzibar. The decision to include Zanzibar followed consultations among EAC member states. The games, opened by Tanzania’s Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, aim to strengthen regional integration and will feature various sports competitions over 14 days. The event also includes a vaccination booth to promote Covid-19 vaccination among participants. The games are coordinated annually by the East African Legislative Assembly to foster interaction among national parliaments, staff, and citizens of East Africa.

The East African Community (EAC) secretariat has received approval from the Council of Ministers to resume staff recruitment, which had been suspended due to concerns from Burundi, Uganda, and South Sudan over irregularities. The recruitment process, which includes positions such as the clerk of the assembly and his deputy, will be completed within a month. The EAC faces challenges in sustainable financing, with South Sudan being the largest defaulter in contributions. The Council of Ministers has released a report addressing these issues, which will be submitted to the summit.

The East African Community's efforts to resolve political tensions between Uganda and Rwanda have stalled, leading to the continued closure of their common border since 2019. Rwanda has shifted its trade focus to other regional partners, including Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Diplomatic efforts, including mediation by Angola and the DRC, have not resolved the issues, with both countries accusing each other of hostile actions. Meanwhile, Rwanda and Burundi have made progress in mending their relations, with both countries cooperating on security matters. The prolonged Uganda-Rwanda stalemate has significantly impacted trade and bilateral relations, with Rwanda seeking alternative trade routes through Tanzania.

Regional ministers have proposed reducing the number of East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) members elected from each partner state from nine to five due to budget constraints. The proposal follows a report presented at the 12th meeting of the Sectoral Council of Ministers of Finance and Economic/Trade Affairs, highlighting EALA's high operational costs. EALA members have criticized the proposal, arguing that the assembly plays a crucial oversight role and is a model for other regional blocs. The report also suggests reducing the number of EALA sittings to cut costs.

Regional ministers have proposed reducing the number of East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) members from nine to five per partner state due to budget constraints. The proposal follows a report indicating EALA's high operational costs. EALA members criticized the proposal, arguing that the assembly's structure is a treaty matter and highlighting its role in oversight and regional integration. The report also suggests reducing the number of EALA sittings and changing the compensation structure for members to align with other regional parliamentary bodies.

A long-standing dispute over job distribution within the East African Community (EAC) has escalated, with the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) blocking the hiring of House clerks due to alleged irregularities. Ugandan legislators, led by Denis Namara, have been vocal about the need for equity in recruitment, leading to walkouts and suspended sittings. The EAC Secretariat's recent job advertisements have intensified competition among partner states, prompting Uganda's EAC Affairs Minister Rebecca Kadaga to request a postponement of interviews. The dispute highlights concerns over the EAC's quota system and calls for a forensic audit into the recruitment process. The situation has led to internal conflicts among South Sudanese MPs and accusations of bias against EALA Speaker Martin Ngoga.

More than 1,300 Burundian families displaced by floods earlier this year face renewed anxiety as the rainy season begins, threatening their temporary camps in Gatumba. The floods left over 30,000 people homeless, and despite government promises to provide land and shelter, many remain in precarious conditions. The government has relocated some victims and provided healthcare and learning centers, but challenges persist, particularly for children and women like Nyabenda Sikitu, who lost her home and a child to the floods.

Burundi has suspended social gatherings on weekdays to curb the spread of Covid-19, allowing them only on weekends. The decision follows a rise in Covid-19 cases due to non-compliance with health measures. The government has also implemented fines for not wearing masks and suspended night club operations. Borders remain closed except for specific points, while the airport has resumed normal operations.

The African Union (AU) is seeking the United Nations Security Council's approval to deploy 5,000 peacekeepers in Burundi due to ongoing human rights violations and political unrest. AU Chair Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma emphasized the need for international unity and action. The UNSC is concerned about the escalating violence and plans to send a team to Burundi to encourage dialogue and assess the situation. The Burundi parliament has rejected the peacekeeper deployment, citing sovereignty concerns. Despite a quieter situation, assassinations persist. The Burundi National Dialogue Commission has initiated talks, with the government expressing readiness for inclusive dialogue.

Opposition leaders in Burundi have criticized the African Union for its lack of transparency and failure to uphold democracy following a visit by a high-level delegation of five African heads of state. The delegation's visit aimed to address the ongoing violence that has plagued Burundi for over nine months. South Africa's President Jacob Zuma, who led the delegation, announced the commitment of the Burundian government to accept 200 AU observers and military monitors. He also mentioned that Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni would facilitate an inclusive dialogue for peace talks. Despite these developments, the Burundian government refuses to engage with leaders it accuses of involvement in last year's coup attempt and violent protests. The situation reflects the challenges faced by the AU in enforcing its charter, specifically Article 23, which deals with the illegitimate accession to power and sanctions for non-compliance.

Burundi has expressed concerns to the European Union regarding the continuation of economic sanctions, which it believes could exacerbate violence in the country. The sanctions were imposed due to human rights concerns, but Burundi argues that the EU has failed to acknowledge the progress made in restoring peace and combating violence from terrorist groups. Despite the Burundian government's efforts, including an intra-Burundian dialogue and human rights measures such as amnesty for prisoners, the EU maintains that support will only resume if the government fulfills certain political conditions. The EU has suspended direct financial support to the Burundian government but continues to provide humanitarian aid directly to the population.

Africa News Tonight is a dynamic news magazine program from Voice of America (VOA) that covers a wide array of topics relevant to the African continent. The show includes reports from VOA correspondents, interviews with various African personalities including officials and activists, and features on science, technology, the environment, humanitarian issues, the African diaspora, and cultural topics. Additionally, the program offers business news, arts and culture segments, and music. A popular segment on sports, called Sonny Side of Sports, is also part of the lineup, providing a comprehensive overview of news and events.