by Ines, age 9 from Gitega, Burundi, asks Santa about Christmas holly, Burundi’s new capital, and its Christian traditions.
Dear Santa, my name is Ines, and I am nine years old. I live in Gitega, Burundi, where my nyokobuja says our city only became the official capital a few years ago, taking over from a different city.
Dear Ines, a country choosing a new capital is always an interesting bit of news for my map, and I made sure to update it the very same year.
Santa, I have three questions.
Do you like Christmas holly? My nyokobuja pins a little sprig of it to my coat every December, even though it does not really grow here.
I love Christmas holly, Ines, and a little sprig pinned to your coat sounds like a wonderfully thoughtful touch, even imported traditions can carry real warmth. That small gesture from your nyokobuja means more than the plant itself.
My teacher says Gitega became the official capital of Burundi in 2019, taking over from Bujumbura. Is that true?
It is true, Ines, Burundi officially moved its capital to Gitega in 2019, shifting responsibilities away from Bujumbura. I always double check my map before visiting a country that has recently made a change like that.
My nyokobuja says most people in Burundi are Christian, and church plays a big part in how we celebrate Christmas. Is that true?
It is true, Ines, Christianity, especially Catholicism, plays a central role in daily life across Burundi, and Christmas is celebrated with church services and family gatherings. That kind of shared faith and togetherness is really the heart of the whole season.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Ines Nduwimana
Gitega, Burundi
P.S. Can you bring extra holly sprigs for the whole family this year?
Already arranged, Ines, everyone deserves a proper festive pin.
