In partnership with the NGO Radio La Benevolencija, Fondation Hirondelle has been implementing since January 2021 a 24-month project, funded by the European Union, to build the capacity of journalists and media professionals in Burundi. The selected media can now use their acquired skills to produce and disseminate reliable, pluralistic information in a professional and inclusive manner.
The direct beneficiaries of this project are 10 Burundian media and their employees (journalists, technicians, managers) as well as three local associations and their employees: the Burundian Association of Women Journalists (AFJO), the Burundian Association of Radio Broadcasters (ABR) and YAGA (a bloggers’ collective).
Financial Volume
353 764 CHF
Sources of Funding
• Switzerland (Programme contribution)
• European Union
The failed coup of 2015 forced Burundian journalists into self-censorship or exile. In recent years, however, there have been some encouraging signs for the media sector. Following the Burundian government’s stated willingness to introduce press freedom reforms, donors who have been historically present are returning to the country.
In this context, Fondation Hirondelle and its partners have continued their work to support and promote social cohesion, dialogue and violence prevention. In 2022, six training sessions were provided. More than 130 media professionals benefited from theoretical and practical training in journalism and in the production of public debate programmes.
Ten media partners and three civil society organizations have had the opportunity to follow specific workshops on media governance and income-generating activities. Through this network, participants could share experiences and capitalize on knowledge.
The partner media were also given production and broadcasting equipment based on a technical diagnosis of needs carried out in the first year of the project.