Inauguration of Stade Intwari: Burundi football turns a historic page

Shortly after midday on January 31, 2026, the gates of Stade Intwari opened to the public. Within minutes, the stands began to fill. Families, young supporters, and longtime football lovers all converged on the venue, eager to witness what had already been described as a historic day. Admission was free, but the importance of the moment was priceless for Burundian sport.

At exactly 3:00 p.m., kickoff was given for the most anticipated fixture of the 19th round of the Primus League Burundi 2025–2026, pitting Vital’O FC against Bumamuru FC. Beyond the league standings, the match carried special weight, as it was the first major game ever played at the newly renovated Stade Intwari.

From the opening minutes, the intensity was clear. Vital’O broke the deadlock in the 40th minute when Kessy Nimbona calmly converted a penalty. Bumamuru responded just before halftime, with Alfred Nkurunziza scoring the equalizer and sending a wave of excitement through part of the crowd. The teams went into the break level at 1–1, a fair reflection of a competitive and evenly balanced first half.

After the restart, both sides returned with renewed determination. Pushed forward by a packed and vocal stadium, Vital’O eventually found the decisive breakthrough in the 62nd minute. Didier Zokora Shabani scored the winning goal, sealing a 2–1 victory that will be remembered not only by the club’s supporters, but also as the first official result in the history of the stadium. Final score, Vital’O 2, Bumamuru 1. It was a prestigious win on a truly memorable day.

Football, however, was only part of the celebration. During halftime, the music group YM entertained the crowd, setting a festive tone. After the match, popular artists Kirikou Akili and Double Jay took the stage, energizing supporters with well known songs. The atmosphere underlined a clear intention, to make Stade Intwari not just a football ground, but a space for culture, community, and shared national pride.

Following the match, attention shifted to the official inauguration ceremonies. His Excellency the President of the Republic, General Major Evariste Ndayishimiye, arrived at the stadium and was welcomed by senior national and international dignitaries. Among them were Prosper Bazombanza, First Vice President of the Republic, Souleiman Hassan Waberi representing FIFA, and General of Brigade of Police Muyenge Alexandre, President of the Burundi Football Federation.

The most symbolic moment came with the cutting of the ribbon, officially declaring Stade Intwari open. The Head of State then signed the stadium’s guest book, followed by a series of speeches. In his address, President Ndayishimiye expressed deep gratitude to all those who contributed to the project, notably FIFA, partner institutions, and the Burundian people. He described the stadium as a national asset and a powerful tool for youth development and sports promotion.

FIFA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting football in Burundi. On the sidelines of the ceremony, FIFA representatives Davis Ndayisenga, Souleiman Hassan Waberi, and Miottocinzia presented a symbolic gift to the President of the Burundi Football Federation, highlighting the spirit of partnership between the global governing body and Burundian football authorities.

The new Stade Intwari has a seating capacity of between 15,000 and 16,000 spectators. Fully rebuilt to meet international standards, it now positions Burundi to host continental and international matches, including games involving the national team. Studies by organizations such as FIFA and the Confederation of African Football consistently show that modern sports infrastructure plays a crucial role in improving athletic performance, stimulating local economies, and creating employment opportunities.

Reconstruction work began in 2022, following the demolition of the old structures. The project was made possible through the combined efforts of the Government of Burundi, the Burundi Football Federation, international partners, and contributions from citizens, reflecting a strong sense of collective ownership.

Stade Intwari is also a site deeply rooted in national history. Originally built in 1962, it was formerly known as Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium, named in honor of the independence hero assassinated in 1961. It was on this very ground that, on July 1, 1962, the Burundian flag was raised for the first time while the Belgian flag was lowered during independence celebrations.

On July 1, 2019, marking the 57th anniversary of independence, the stadium was officially renamed Stade Intwari, a name symbolizing bravery and heroism. The recent reconstruction does not erase this legacy, but rather carries it forward into a new era.

In the end, the inauguration of Stade Intwari went far beyond football. It was a day to experience a broader national ambition to invest in youth, strengthen unity through sport, and firmly place Burundi on the map of African football.

As one supporter summed it up from the stands, this stadium is not just concrete and grass. It is our history, our pride, and our future.

With its opening day now written into the record books, Stade Intwari has entered history, and with it, a new chapter for Burundian football has truly begun.