State-run outlets dominate the media. Journalists operate under strict press laws and face harassment over their coverage.
US-based NGO Freedom House says: “Freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed but severely restricted in practice by draconian press laws and a dangerous operating environment for media workers.”
Many journalists have fled the country since 2015. Radio is the main source of information for many Burundians. Many privately-owned stations were shut after the 2015 coup attempt.
The government banned FM transmissions of BBC World Service radio in 2019, accusing it of airing a documentary it said had damaged the country’s reputation – it lifted the ban in 2022.
There were 1.6 million internet users by December 2021, comprising 12% of the population (Internetworldstats.com).
Social media serve as news sources in place of shuttered radio stations. They are also used for attempts at spreading disinformation, says RSF.
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Le Renouveau – government newspaper
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Iwacu – private weekly, online content in English/French
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Ndongozi (Pacesetter) – founded by Catholic Church
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Arc-en-ciel (Rainbow) – private, French-language weekly
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Ubumwe (Unity) – government-owned weekly
