Angeline Ndayishimiye
Angeline Ndayishimiye is the First Lady of Burundi and a prominent humanitarian, development advocate, and former military officer. She became the First Lady on June 18, 2020, following the inauguration of her husband, President Évariste Ndayishimiye. The couple has six children and is known for their strong Roman Catholic faith.
Early Life and Education
Angeline Ndayishimiye completed her tertiary education later in life, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management in 2014. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to growth, development, and effective leadership.
Career and Public Service
Angeline first served in the Burundian National Defense Force, where she rose to the rank of lieutenant before being demobilized in 2004. After transitioning to civilian life, she joined Burundi’s civil aviation sector, holding managerial positions at SOBUGEA, the state company overseeing airport and ground operations. She later served as Administrative and Financial Director at Air Burundi and returned to SOBUGEA in the same capacity, playing a significant role in public enterprise administration.
Philanthropy and Social Initiatives
Angeline’s work in the humanitarian field is central to her public identity. She founded Femmes Intwari in 2017, a movement of women ex-combatants and wives of ex-combatants committed to national reconciliation, peacebuilding, and social cohesion.
In July 2019, she launched the Bonne Action Umugiraneza Foundation, which has led efforts to support women with obstetric fistula, provide mental health services for survivors of violence, offer reproductive health information to marginalized groups, and promote education and training opportunities. Her foundation also established the country’s first fertility clinic, the UMUGIRANEZA Polyclinic.
Advocacy and Public Health Campaigns
Angeline has been at the forefront of several national initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and public health. In 2024, she launched Burundi’s “Zero Waste Movement,” encouraging citizens to adopt sustainable waste management practices. The movement underscores the connection between environmental stewardship and long-term development.
She also spearheaded a youth health campaign in schools, addressing topics such as school pregnancies, sexual health, nutrition, vaccination, and the prevention of diseases like HIV and Mpox. Through these initiatives, she promotes healthy behavior and informed decision-making among young Burundians.
Continental Leadership and Recognition
Angeline’s influence extends beyond Burundi. In 2023, she was elected President of the Africa First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM), reflecting her leadership in peace and development across the continent. That same year, she received the United Nations Population Award in recognition of her work on gender equality and reproductive rights.
She is an active member of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), where she collaborates with fellow first ladies to tackle issues such as health, education, and women’s empowerment.
Personal Life and Values
As a mother of six, Angeline balances her public role with a deep commitment to family and faith. Her personal journey—from military service to national leadership—reflects resilience, humility, and a dedication to service. Her vision for Burundi is one rooted in compassion, unity, and sustainable development for all.
- 18 June 1976
- Burundi
- President Évariste Ndayishimiye
- 18 June 2020 - Present
