Unlocking Creative Horizons: Bart Ouvry’s Visionary Visit Paves the Way for Future Cultural Collaborations
Strengthening Historical Ties: Burundi and Belgium Explore Cultural Cooperation
The Karyenda Sacred Drum, a symbol of historical ties between Burundi and Belgium, remains a strong emblem of their shared heritage.
September 18, 2024 – As part of Burundi’s foreign policy, Mr. Bart Ouvry, Director General of the African Museum in Belgium, was warmly welcomed in Burundi. The aim of his visit, which took place between September 15 and 18, 2024, was to explore possibilities for scientific and cultural cooperation between Burundi and Belgium.
During his visit to the University of Burundi, Mr. Ouvry engaged with students and academic staff, stating: “Our objective is not only to become a museum on Africa, but to collaborate with Africans.” He also met with the Gitega drummers, highlighting the significance of cultural exchange between the two nations. Notably, Burundi, a former colony of Belgium, saw the theft of its Sacred Drum, Karyenda, by Belgium and the Vatican in the 1930s. This drum remains a beloved symbol of the Burundian people.
Before leaving Belgium on September 15, 2024, Mr. Ouvry paid a courtesy visit to Ambassador Ntahiraja Thérence, a highly regarded diplomat, to discuss the objectives of his official mission. This mission aims to realize the conclusions of their 2023 mini round table, further solidifying the historical ties between Burundi and Belgium.
Sources: Nahimana P., Saturday, September 21, 2024 | Photo: Amb. Ntahiraja Thérence, Belgium and Burundi