The Role of the Church and Christians in Bringing Peace and Reconciliation in Contemporary Burundi

Abstract

The nation of Burundi has repeatedly witnessed armed violence for more than 40 years since gaining independence in 1962. Conflicts and civil wars rooted in political and historical tensions have claimed thousands of lives and livelihoods, displacing many to neighboring countries. This paper looks at the possible contributions of the Body of Christ and Christians in Burundi toward the peace and reconciliation process. The study employs a historical analysis of the etiology of conflict in Burundi in the various historical periods from the colonial period to the present time. Before focusing on the role of Christians in bringing peace and reconciliation, the paper explores the historical nature of Burundi’s current challenges tracing back to pre-colonial times. The article highlights Burundi’s present political dominance, historical injustices, social exclusion, inequality in opportunities, and unequal resource distribution. The study recognizes the positive role of the Commission of Truth and Reconciliation in working on these historical upheavals and argues that the church can be a resourceful partner in the process. Finally, the paper argues that Christians can better heal the situation in Burundi as they live out their biblical mandate of bringing peace, healing, and reconciliation in a broken world.