This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
On July 1, 2020, Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye made a significant declaration, labeling the Covid-19 pandemic the country's 'biggest enemy'. This marked a stark contrast to the stance of his predecessor, Pierre Nkurunziza, who had downplayed the severity of the virus.
Speaking after the swearing-in of his new government, Ndayishimiye emphasized the need for strict adherence to preventative measures to combat the spread of the virus. He also reminded citizens that coronavirus tests and treatment were free, warning those who failed to get tested when showing symptoms.
"If in future someone does not go and get tested in such a case, it means he wants to contaminate others voluntarily... and he will be considered a sorcerer and treated as severely as one would be," Ndayishimiye said.
The president's declaration comes after the World Bank donated $5 million to help Burundi fight the virus. This donation may have contributed to the country's change of heart, as Burundi had previously isolated itself from international assistance.
Despite the country's initial reluctance to acknowledge the severity of the pandemic, Burundi has officially reported only 170 cases and one death in two months.
