On Friday, February 6, 2026, Hope Africa University (HAU) held its 21st graduation ceremony, conferring academic and professional degrees upon 1,891 graduates. This milestone reflects the enduring mission of the Free Methodist Church in Burundi (EMLBU) and the Hope Africa Free Methodist Initiatives (IMELEA).
A Vision Beyond the Spiritual Realm
In his keynote address, “The University as a Lever for National Development: Training Leaders Capable of Addressing African Realities,” Bishop Déogratias Nshimiyimana, the Legal Representative of the Burundi Free Methodist Church, reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to integral development. He emphasized that the mission of the Church extends beyond spiritual growth to encompass holistic community transformation.
The Burundi Free Methodist Church remains steadfast in its vision: to be a biblically grounded institution that multiplies disciples while addressing the holistic needs of society: the spirit, the soul, and the body. Through its network of schools, hospitals, social and financial institutions, the Church actively contributes to national development and societal renewal.
A Call to Innovation and Leadership
Addressing the graduating class, Bishop Nshimiyimana urged the new alumni to aspire to be more than mere employees, stating that “sustainable development does not rely solely on seeking existing jobs; rather, it depends on your ability to create value, innovate, and lead with an entrepreneurial spirit.”
IMELEA: A strategic Commitment to Human Progress
The President of Hope Africa Free Methodist Initiatives (IMELEA), speaking on behalf of the IMELEA Board, emphasized the strategic role that affiliated institutions play in promoting human development.
Burundi FMC translates its mission into concrete action through a diverse portfolio of service-oriented entities, including:
- Healthcare: Kibuye Hope Hospital, Van Norman Clinic, and the MUSAM-Mvuzankuvuze Health Mutual Aid Society.
- Media & Finance: Radio Voix d’Espoir (Ijwi Riremesha) and the forthcoming Mizero Microfinance initiative.
- Education: Hope Africa University (HAU).
The President commended HAU’s significant achievements, particularly the regional accreditation of the Faculty of Medicine within the East African Community. He also highlighted the university’s commitment to administrative modernization and critical infrastructure development, including the establishment of a Doctoral School and a state-of-the-art medical laboratory.
Educating to Transform
Since its inception, Hope Africa University has graduated over 13,930 students, cultivating a professional elite defined by competence and ethical standards. The university’s curriculum goes beyond academic theory, instilling Christian values that empower graduates to serve with integrity. This 21st graduating class exemplifies a clear mission: transforming lives to transform the nation.
Through the combined efforts of Burundi FMC and IMELEA, the Gospel continues to serve as a catalyst for excellence and a commitment to a prosperous and responsible Burundi.
