Amid the often-overlooked halls of influence, where true impact can go unnoticed, Angeline Ndayishimiye Ndayubaha has established herself as a powerful force of change. Since stepping into her role as the First Lady of Burundi in 2020, Angeline has harnessed her unique experiences—from her days in military service to her roles as a mother, corporate leader, and social advocate—to passionately drive forward causes that align deeply with her life’s journey. Her leadership is not just transformative; it’s a reflection of her resolute drive to uplift and empower those around her.
A Military Lieutenant Turned Humanitarian Leader
Born in 1976, Angeline Ndayishimiye Ndayubaha’s early life was marked by discipline and duty. She served as a lieutenant in the Burundian armed forces until 2004, a role that ingrained in her a profound understanding of resilience and service. Leaving the military, she transitioned to the private sector, joining the Société Burundaise de Gestion des Entrepôts et d’Assistance des Avions en Escale (SOBUGAE). Over a decade, she rose through the ranks to lead the Human Resources and Administration department, and later served as the Administrative and Financial Director until 2018.
This blend of military precision and corporate acumen uniquely positioned Angeline to address complex social issues. In 2017, she founded Femmes Intwari, an organization dedicated to championing democratic peace. The group, composed of female veterans and widows of soldiers, focuses on fostering peace through the empowerment of women—a cause close to Angeline’s heart.
Founder of Umugiraneza: A Lifeline for Burundi’s Vulnerable
Angeline’s commitment to social welfare extends beyond advocacy. In 2019, she established Umugiraneza, a non-governmental organization focused on poverty alleviation, with a particular emphasis on supporting children and widows. Under her leadership, Umugiraneza provides healthcare, education, paid work, and training to some of Burundi’s most vulnerable populations. This hands-on approach to social work has had a tangible impact on countless lives, solidifying her reputation as a compassionate and pragmatic leader.
A Role Model on the Global Stage
In 2023, Angeline’s efforts earned her international recognition when she received the prestigious United Nations Population Award, an honor that highlights her contributions to social welfare and population issues. This accolade, alongside her election as the 10th President of the Africa First Ladies’ Peace Mission (AFLPM), underscores her influence not just in Burundi but across the African continent.
Angeline’s work with the German-based Merck organization as an ambassador for their “More than a Mother” campaign further amplifies her impact. The initiative, which aims to de-stigmatize infertility in women, is a cause she champions passionately, using her platform to break down societal barriers and advocate for women’s rights.
The Human Side of a First Lady
Beyond her public duties, Angeline’s life is grounded in her role as a mother of six. Her decision to personally purchase her clothing—a detail reported by the BBC—reflects a humility that is rarely seen in circles of power. It’s this blend of humility, resilience, and dedication that makes Angeline Ndayishimiye Ndayubaha not just the First Lady of Burundi, but a true leader in the fight for social justice.
