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The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, will represent President JG Zuma at the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Burundi's independence. The event will be held in Bujumbura on 2 July 2012.

Burundi gained its independence from Belgium on 1 July 1962, although the actual commemoration will be held on 2 July 2012.

Relations between South Africa and Burundi are excellent. At the beginning of this year, President Pierre Nkurunziza joined other Heads of State and Government at the ANC's Centenary celebration in Mangaung.

South Africa's involvement in Burundi is currently focused on strengthening bilateral relations, with a strong emphasis on Burundi's Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD) endeavours, assistance with the establishment a Truth and Reconciliation Commission and investigations regarding socio-economic and infrastructure development opportunities.