On 12 April 2024, the National Association of Social Workers in Burundi (NASWA-BURUNDI), in collaboration with the Ministry of National Solidarity, Social Affairs, Human Rights and Gender, and with the support of UNICEF Burundi, organised a highly successful round table event at the Royal Palace Hotel in Bujumbura. The event marked World Social Work Day, held under the theme “Buen Vivir: Shared Future for Transformative Change”.
The round table brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, UNICEF representatives, and social workers, to discuss and develop strategies aimed at enhancing the professionalism of social work and improving child protection services in Burundi. The event was particularly significant in light of the growing need to professionalise social work in the country and address the challenges faced by the sector.
Oluwatoni Adeleke, President of IFSW Africa, said, “This round table is a remarkable step towards strengthening social workers in Burundi. It represents a crucial moment for transformative change and shared responsibility, particularly in the areas of child protection and community development.”
Serges Claver Nzisabira, President of the National Association of Social Workers in Burundi also emphasised the importance of the event, noting, “We must work together to ensure that social workers in Burundi receive the necessary support, training, and recognition they deserve. The success of our efforts depends on the collaboration between the government, partners and the social work community.”
One of the key outcomes of the event was the development of a roadmap aimed at formalising the network of social workers in Burundi, defining roles, and setting the framework for professional practice. The round table also highlighted the need for increased financial and technical support to enhance the quality of services provided to children, families, and communities.
The event opened with a march-parade through the streets of Bujumbura, showcasing the commitment of social workers to co-build sustainable futures in Burundi.