International Stuttering Awareness Day is celebrated annually on 22 October. On 22 October 2026, associations working on stuttering issues in Burundi held activities at the Buterere fundamental school to mark the occasion. Participants observed the 2026 edition of the event under the theme, "Nos voix sont différentes, nos droits sont égaux : Écoutons, comprenons et acceptons le bégaiement." The activities at the school served to promote public understanding of the challenges faced by individuals who stutter. Representatives from various organizations gathered at the site to share information and advocate for greater social inclusion. These efforts align with the global initiative to raise awareness regarding the rights and unique experiences of people who live with communication disorders.
The gathering at the Buterere fundamental school provided a platform for direct engagement between the organizers and the local community. By selecting a school setting, the associations aimed to reach students, teachers, and parents, fostering a dialogue about speech fluency disorders in an educational environment. The event featured presentations designed to clarify the nature of stuttering and to dismantle common misconceptions that often lead to social stigmatization. Through these structured activities, the organizers sought to ensure that the message of equality and acceptance reached a broad audience, emphasizing that individuals who stutter are entitled to the same rights and opportunities as all other members of society.
Leadership Behind the Advocacy
Céléus Bakuzurusaku serves as the president and legal representative of the associations organizing the commemoration in Burundi. As the primary coordinator for the event, he oversaw the logistical arrangements and the thematic focus of the day's proceedings. Reflecting on the necessity of inclusive communication, he stated, "Chaque voix compte et mérite d’être entendue sans jugement." His leadership role involves directing the strategic advocacy efforts of the collective organizations to ensure their message is coherent and impactful across the country.
Willerme Bimazubute holds the position of legal representative for the Association du Bégaiement au Burundi (ABB). His leadership within the organization focuses on addressing the specific needs of individuals living with speech fluency disorders. By representing the Association du Bégaiement au Burundi (ABB), Bimazubute works to provide resources and support networks for those affected by stuttering. His involvement in the 22 October 2026 activities shows the commitment of the Association du Bégaiement au Burundi (ABB) to long-term advocacy and the improvement of public awareness regarding speech-related conditions.
Deus Bigirimana acts as the legal representative of Abuped Shiruka Mazinduka. He emphasized the importance of public perception and professional support during the event. According to Bigirimana, "bégayer n’est pas aussi terrible qu’on le pense et la situation de bégaiement se réduit avec un accompagnement approprié." Through his work with Abuped Shiruka Mazinduka, Bigirimana notes the potential for positive outcomes when individuals receive the correct guidance. These representatives coordinate their efforts to ensure that advocacy for people who stutter remains a priority for social organizations operating within the country, maintaining a unified front to promote better understanding and support for all affected individuals.
