Africa home to over 1.4 billion people is a continent of breathtaking diversity. From sweeping deserts to lush rainforests, from ancient traditions to vibrant modern cities, Africa pulses with life, resilience, and spiritual depth. The United Nations divides the continent into five regions, each with its own unique blend of languages, religions, and economic rhythms.
Mapping Africa’s Regional Mosaic
Eastern Africa - There are 15 countries in East Africa as per UN Geoscheme namely, Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.
It is interesting to note that both Mozambique and Madagascar are also classified under Southern Africa by the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
All the Eastern African countries are not members of the East African Community (EAC). Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (joined in 2022), Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda are EAC member countries.
Western Africa consists of 16 countries - Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde (Cabo Verde), Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo and Mauritania
There are 8 countries in Central Africa - Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, & São Tomé and Príncipe
6 countries of Northern Africa are Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Sudan and Tunisia, known for their Mediterranean and Arab heritage; these countries bridge Africa and the Middle East.
9 Southern African countries are Angola, Botswana, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Let’s start from the East!
Burundi: The Heartbeat of the Great Lakes
Tucked into the highlands of East-Central Africa, Burundi is a landlocked gem with a soul as deep as its lakes. With an area of 27,834 km² and 13 million in population it borders Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Despite its modest size, Burundi offers a rich tapestry of spiritual heritage, ecological wonder, and cultural resilience.
Official languages of Burundi are Kirundi and French, whereas Business & Regional languages are English and Swahili
In Burundi, there are 62% Catholics, 5% other Christian denominations, 10% Muslims and 23% are of other indigenous beliefs. Churches are central to Burundian life. Notable Catholic sites include: Cathedral Regina Mundi, Bujumbura, Église Sainte Trinité, Gitega, Église Catholique de Ngozi and Église Catholique de Kayanza.
Burundi’s Natural and Cultural Treasures include
1. Lake Tanganyika – One of the world’s deepest lakes; perfect for fishing, boating, and lakeside retreats
2. Kibira National Park – A montane rainforest teeming with biodiversity
3. Rusizi National Park – Home to hippos, crocodiles, and migratory birds
4. Gitega National Museum – A cultural trove of royal drums and traditional artifacts
5. Karera Waterfalls – Scenic cascades near Rutana province
6. Southern Source of the Nile – A symbolic site near Rutovu
7. Drum Sanctuaries – Sacred spaces preserving Burundi’s iconic drum tradition
How to get there?
• Main Airport: Bujumbura International Airport (BJM)
• Airlines: Kenya Airways, RwandAir, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Tanzania, Brussels Airlines
• Driving: Right-hand side (same as India)
• Time Zone: GMT+2 (India is 3.5 hours ahead)
Essentials for Travelers
• Currency: Burundian Franc (BIF) 1$ = 1940 BIF
Climate: Mild equatorial
o Average temperature: 21°C
o Rainfall: 8–9 months/year
Hotel Rates:
o Budget: ~$40
o Mid-range: ~$80
o Upscale: ~$150
Indian Presence in Burundi
The Indian community in Burundi is small but vibrant around 3,000 people, mostly based in Bujumbura. They are engaged in business, agriculture, education, and healthcare, contributing to Burundi’s development while preserving cultural ties through festivals and faith.
There is a small Kerala community in Burundi also with about 25 people including Mr.Anish Albert from Kottayam (+25761768181), owning a beach-view hotel who is the coordinator of Cnews Live in Burundi.
Final Reflection
To journey through, with, and in Africa is to embrace a continent of contrasts and communion. Burundi, with its lakes, drums, and churches, invites us not just to visit but to listen, learn, and walk alongside its people. Whether you're a pilgrim, planner, or peacebuilder, Africa offers not just a destination but a dialogue.