EASF Assesses Burundi Peacekeeping Training Centre in Bujumbura

The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) conducted an assessment of the Burundi Peacekeeping Training Centre (BPKTC) in Bujumbura, Burundi, from 23–24 April 2026, as part of its 2026 approved work programme. The exercise followed an invitation from the Government of Burundi and aimed at evaluating the centre’s readiness for accreditation as an EASF Centre of Excellence. 

The assessment focused on reviewing the institution’s governance framework, training quality, infrastructure, logistics, and alignment with United Nations, African Union, and regional peacekeeping standards. It also examined partnerships, funding models, and overall institutional effectiveness in preparing personnel for modern peace support operations. 

The assessment team was led by the Director of EASF, Brigadier (Rtd) Paul Kahuria Njema, accompanied by Heads of Departments and representatives from the military, police, and civilian components. The methodology included briefings, document reviews, consultations with instructors and trainees, site visits, benchmarking with other regional training centres, and a validation workshop with stakeholders. 

Opening the assessment, Brig. (Rtd) Njema expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Burundi for their hospitality, noting that the exercise aimed to strengthen transparency, partnership, and mutual learning. He emphasized that training institutions play a critical role in promoting professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights in peacekeeping operations. 

The assessment is part of a broader EASF capacity-building agenda, which includes ongoing initiatives under the Humanitarian Assistance and Natural Disaster Support (HANDS) framework. This regional programme, developed through successive workshops in Moroni, Bujumbura, Khartoum, Kigali, Entebbe, and Nairobi, seeks to enhance rapid response capabilities for crises across Eastern Africa. 

EASF officials noted that findings from the assessment will provide a roadmap for institutional improvement, including strategic recommendations for strengthening training delivery and achieving international accreditation. The exercise is expected to enhance the visibility and role of the Burundi Peacekeeping Training Centre within regional and global peace support networks.