Gitega

Gitega is the political capital in central Burundi, spreading across several hills on a plateau. The city lies roughly 62 kilometers east of Bujumbura and connects different valleys and high points.

The German colonial administration founded the city in 1912 during the era of German East Africa. Later it became the seat of Belgian authorities and in 2019 was declared the official capital.

The museum displays tools, pottery and ritual objects from different periods across the region. Royal drum sanctuaries outside the city house ceremonial drums once used during important occasions.

Four national roads connect the city to other parts of the country and lead toward Bujumbura, Ngozi, Karuzi and Lake Tanganyika. Local markets and public squares are easily reachable on foot.

A polytechnic university established in 2014 offers technical courses for students from central provinces. The institution was created to train specialists in fields such as engineering and construction.

Location: Gitega Province

Inception: 1912

Elevation above the sea: 1,504 m

GPS coordinates: -3.42850,29.92497

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:25