Category: INTERVIEW

In conversation with Paulino José Miguel

Post Author From hawener
Post date March 11, 2025

Paulino José Miguel at the 2nd Africa Forum Baden-Württemberg in Ludwigsburg in autumn 2024 (©CamiloAmayaPhotographer).

For decades, Paulino José Miguel has been committed to the participation of migrants in development policy. Read in the interview how his commitment to migration and development has shaped him and what expectations he has for the future.

Dear Paulino, congratulations on the Federal Cross of Merit and on the recognition of your many years of commitment. You are a specialist promoter for (post-)migrant associations at the Forum der Kulturen Stuttgart eV, networking the industry and actively shaping our intercultural coexistence in Stuttgart, the state and far beyond with your work. You have significantly shaped the understanding of migration and development. What do you think of when we talk about “migration & development”?

When we talk about migration and development, I think first of all about people. I think of the people who are involved in this process. They are people who are not only thinking about themselves, but also about the communities they originally come from and in which they currently live and beyond. These are people who want to keep societies together and not divide them. That is why they are working to improve conditions in their countries of origin and here and around the world.

Thank you for the context. Can you give us an insight into what's coming up this year?

We have a lot planned for this year. One point remains the announcement and exchange of our position paper with impulses for action on the special position of (post-)migrant engagement in the development policy funding landscape. There is great interest in this - we have received numerous inquiries from various actors.

We are also working on an expert paper in which we would like to specifically involve migrant experts from various institutions. Especially now that migration has become an increasingly sensitive issue - a development that I view with concern - a clear, strong position is needed. Our goal is to promote social cohesion and strengthen our democracy.

What expectations do you have of organizations like the SEZ and also of politicians to promote (post-)migrant engagement in development work? What role do you see the SEZ playing?

Organisations such as the SEZ and politicians play a crucial role in promoting (post-)migrant engagement. Important progress has been made in recent years, but there is still much to be done.

The SEZ has already implemented numerous projects that strengthen (post-)migrant actors. One example is the Africa Forum, which was supported and coordinated by the SEZ from the outset not only financially but also organizationally. The Baden-Württemberg State Ministry also supports our work - for example through the migrant development policy network, in which state officials and even State Secretary Rudi Hoogvliet actively seek exchange with migrants.

I hope that the SEZ will continue down this path and convince even more foundations and organizations to specifically promote the commitment of (post-)migrant initiatives. This support should reach as many people as possible in order to have a lasting impact.

What do you wish for next year in terms of your work and commitment?

For the coming year, I hope that the recognition of my commitment will be extended to other people with a migration background - in particular through stronger support for projects initiated by and for (post-)migrant communities. Another important goal is to anchor people with a migration background more firmly in key positions, such as committees and boards of umbrella organizations. Their presence and participation at these levels are essential to make their perspectives more visible and to drive structural change.

What does the official recognition of your work through the Federal Cross of Merit mean to you?

For me, the official recognition of my work is also an appreciation of the commitment of all (post-)migrant actors. I see myself merely as a mediator, as a voice for all those people with a migration background who work for the common good every day.

I accepted the Federal Cross of Merit on behalf of all of them – for those who often remain invisible but who play a key role in shaping our society through their work.

Thank you for your time and your tireless commitment to an open society!

Tags Africa Forum, Development, Forum of Cultures Stuttgart, Migration, Paulino Miguel

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP INTERVIEW

In conversation with Prof. Dr. Aloys Misago

Post Author From hawener
Post date December 10, 2024

Prof. Dr. Aloys Misago and Philipp Keil at the BW-Burundi Conference 2022 in Stuttgart (© SEZ/ Amani Papy).

Our long-term partner Prof. Dr. Aloys Misago from Burundi visited Baden-Württemberg and the SEZ in November. In the interview, you can get to know him and his important work at the German Center.

Hello Prof. Dr. Misago, can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your work and the German Center in Burundi?

I am the chairman of the board of the German Center in Bujumbura. The center was founded in 2022, but German courses have been available since 2014.

In 2014, a delegation from Baden-Württemberg came to visit. At that time, I was the dean of the Institute of Economics. During the trip, the delegation saw the circumstances under which we had to work: at that time, there were two teachers with a PhD who had to supervise more than 2.000 students. The delegation then decided to offer five students per year the opportunity to complete a PhD in Germany. The problem: in 2014, I could not find five people who had sufficient knowledge of German. So I only sent two teachers to Germany. These two teachers were my first two German students.

In 2015, unrest followed in Burundi and the partnership somewhat died down. But in 2017, the partnership was revived and we were able to start with 79 new German learners. At that time, the SEZ stepped in and financed the first German course after 2015. Since then, the number of learners has grown rapidly, so that today we have 2540 students enrolled in the German courses. In 2014, we started "small" - today we have several campuses where German is taught:

four in Bujumbura,
three in Gitega,
one in Ngozi,
one in Rumonge and
three locations in Nyanza Lac.

The interest in the German language in Burundi has increased so much that we have to limit the number of participants. Because we have two problems:

The first problem is the small number of teachers. The first people to teach German were those who studied in Germany and therefore learned the language. As the number of interested people increased, we had to motivate former students with B1 and B2 to become German teachers. Today we can meet this demand.

The second problem is the space. From the beginning, we used the university's rooms. Today, we still use these rooms or rooms in schools. But that only works with evening courses. It takes four years to reach level B2 with evening school. That's too slow for people who are in a hurry. For example, they have a scholarship or want to go to their family in Germany. These people cannot study for four years. That's why we also offer intensive courses in which students and pupils study from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. But the institutions also need their rooms at these times. So the question for us is: How can we find new rooms so that we can continue with the intensive courses?

Thank you for this insight – the development from 79 learners to over 2.500 is very impressive. But yes, of course, this also brings with it other requirements in terms of the premises.

There is a Burundian saying: "Inzira ntibara inkuru - On a journey you come across a multitude of stories." You have been teaching German for many years and are part of the AMAHORO! national partnership. Can you think of a story or anecdote from the partnership that you experienced and would like to share with us?

That's a difficult question, I've experienced so many different things in relationships. Could you give me some direction?

How about a highlight? Or an encounter where you met someone special?

What really impresses me about the partnership is that it is not just numbers, not just buildings, but a personal encounter. I have made a lot of friends through the partnership, so that when I travel to Germany I feel at home. And I have also experienced that many partners feel so comfortable with each other that they invite each other to their homes. That is what I love most about the partnership.

Do you think that's also because of the German courses on site? That it leads to new encounters and people being able to exchange ideas? That it leads to new friendships and families being formed because people can talk to each other?

Yes, of course. There are many German learners who become friends through exchange. Even in the extended network, i.e. people who have not been actively attending German courses for a long time, come to network meetings. Unfortunately, there are few visitors from Germany who come to Burundi to get to know the German learners. But I think in the future more interested people will come from Germany and this can of course lead to new friendships.

Maybe in the future there will be more exchange in both directions …

Yes, in Burundi we learn German. I dream that one day German students will also learn Kirundi.

Yes, of course. Then we must build a Kirundi centre here and perhaps one day we will have over 2000 students learning Kirundi.

Yes, it would be enough if schools or universities offered voluntary Kirundi courses.

Exactly, then you could speak both languages in exchange - German and Kirundi. That's a nice idea.

Our last question is along similar lines: do you have a wish for the partnership?

Yes, I would like to see more back and forth in the partnership. It is often still a one-way street. For the future, I would like to see more back and forth in the areas of culture and business. For example, that the partnership supports more companies to establish themselves in Burundi.

We are happy to continue to work for more exchange, more back and forth. Thank you for your commitment and the interview!

Tags AMAHORO!, German Center, Misago

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP INTERVIEW

In conversation with Prof. Émile Mworoha

Post Author From annalightly
Post date November 19, 2024

Prof. Dr. Émile Mworoha, together with Erich Schneider, had the vision of a partnership (Screenshot: SEZ)

Learn more about the beginnings of the AMAHORO! partnership between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi.

Prof. Émile Mworoha was born in Kayanza. He was a teacher and completed a master's degree in history at the university. His doctoral thesis focused on the history of the Great Lakes region, which was entitled "Institutions, rites and state structures in Great Lakes Africa". One of his important publications was "Peuples et rois de l'Afrique des lacs: Le Burundi et les royaumes voisins au 1980e siècle". In the XNUMXs, Mworoha was President of the National Assembly of Burundi. During this time, he traveled to Baden-Württemberg and, together with Erich Schneider, former President of the State Parliament, initiated the AMAHORO! state partnership.

Prof. Mworoha, you are one of the founding fathers of the partnership between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi. During your trip to Baden-Württemberg you met the then President of the State Parliament, Erich Schneider. How did this trip come about and can you describe the beginnings of this partnership?
In 1984, during my visit to Baden-Württemberg, I had a wonderful idea that I developed together with my friend Erich Schneider: to create and promote a partnership between the province of Kayanza in Burundi and the state of Baden-Württemberg. This vision quickly took shape. So we started the partnership.

She began by promoting handicrafts in Kayanza, which developed into a handicrafts center thanks to the support of Baden-Württemberg. We were also able to make important progress in the health sector. The hospital in Kayanza was equipped with equipment, which improved the medical care provided to people. For me, this partnership is an example of how cooperation across borders can achieve tangible results.

What is your wish for the future of the partnership?
I very much hope that the anniversary will be an opportunity to deepen the partnership even further. The collaboration with Baden-Württemberg in the craft sector in Kayanza is a matter close to my heart. I hope that this will be resumed.

It is my wish that the Burundian diaspora in Germany also plays an active and supportive role in intensifying the partnership. Together we can ensure that this connection not only lasts, but becomes even stronger for the next 40 or 50 years.

Your contact person

ANNA EASY

ÖA & event management in AMAHORO! Country partnership between BW & Burundi

COMMITTED IN BADEN-WÜRTTEMBERG INTERVIEW PARTNERSHIP GROUPS PARTNERSHIP CENTER SEZ

In conversation with Dr. Kidist Hailu

Post Author From hawener
Post date July 11

Newly published: the completely revised questionnaire “Reflecting on North-South partnerships”. Dr. Kidist Hailu was actively involved in the process (© SEZ).

Learn more about the questionnaire “Reflecting on North-South Partnerships” in a conversation with Dr. Kidist Hailu, specialist promoter for local partnership initiatives.

The catalogue of criteria “Reflecting on partnerships” was published in 2020. The first edition was launched under the motto “Those who ask questions change the world”. In June, a second catalogue of questions was drawn up by specialist promoters from the field of international cooperation and the Association of One World State Networks in Germany e. V. In a conversation with Dr. Kidist Hailu, you will receive information about “Reflecting on North-South Partnerships – A Questionnaire” and learn what recommendations the brochure and the specialist promoter give to the partnership groups.

Can you briefly describe to us what exactly you do?

I have been part of the SEZ since 2021 and, as a specialist promoter for local partnership initiatives, I coordinate workshops and seminars on topics relevant to partnerships, for example on transcultural communication, child protection, discrimination-sensitive language and decolonization of partnership work. I also coordinate a platform for exchange opportunities between those involved and offer advice for the partnership groups in Baden-Württemberg.

Recently, “Reflecting on North-South Partnerships – a Questionnaire” was revised and you were actively involved in this process. Could you explain to us what exactly this questionnaire contains?

The questionnaire, both the original and the current version, is aimed at partnership groups, especially those involved in North-South partnerships. The publication offers valuable suggestions for examining and critically thinking through partnerships at different levels. The questionnaire contains inspiring impulses and suggestions for action that can help to reflect on one's own work and cooperation with partners and, if necessary, change them.

We, the specialist promoters in the field of international cooperation and partnerships, have worked together nationwide to support partnership groups in their commitment and to provide fresh impetus for North-South partnerships. We hope that the questionnaire will be used as a useful tool not only to better understand cooperation, but also to actively improve it.

Why was the first questionnaire revised?

The revision was necessary because debates and perspectives on North-South partnerships have changed over time. In addition, new questions have emerged that critically question both the current situation and the historical development, while other questions have become less relevant. This has helped to ensure that the catalogue remains up-to-date and useful.

What topics are addressed in the revised version?

The new edition covers, among other things, current debates and topics that have often been ignored in North-South partnership work. These include important topics such as Decolonization, power-critical perspectives and global justice in partnershipsQuestions on the political dimension, human rights and gender equality are now also an important part of the questionnaire.

What advantages does the questionnaire offer for North-South partnerships?

I very much hope that the questionnaire will reach many partnership groups and be actively used. Because reflection within partnerships can Improve communication, start joint learning processes and generally enable conscious discussion among each otherThe questionnaire is flexible in its use, will certainly not be the last version and will continue to develop over time. The topics and relevance of the questions change over time. We would therefore like to encourage partnership groups to ask their own questions and to look for solutions together with their partners. To enable even wider use, we plan to translate the brochure into four more languages (English, French, Spanish and Portuguese) so that partners in the Global South can also work with the catalogue.

What other recommendation would you like to give to partnership groups?

My personal recommendation for all those involved in North-South partnerships is to view partnerships as a learning field and to always be open to learning from the Global South.

Thank you for this insight.

Your contact person

DR. KIDIST HAILU

Specialist Promoter for International Partnership Work

Tags Baden-Württemberg, Partnership work

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP INTERVIEW SEZ

In conversation with Ange Muyubira

Post Author From hawener
Post date May 6

Ange Muyubira is CEO of the Burundian organization Kaz'O'zah (©SEZ / Ange Muyubira).

Ange Myubira in three aspects: Burundi lover, born entrepreneur and world enthusiast (© SEZ/Ange Muyubira).

The Burundian entrepreneur Ange Muyubira founded her first company when she was still at school. This awakened her entrepreneurial spirit. Today she is CEO of Kaz'O'zah in Burundi. In the conversation she tells us more about her work and her motivation.

Can you introduce yourself and your work?

My name is Ange Muyubira and I would say that I am a born entrepreneur and like to be financially independent. I like exploring the world and using my talents to serve my community. I want the people around me to be able to do the same.

That's why everything I do, in one way or another, is all about ensuring that people earn a good income, have a good living and that their country benefits from it. Three aspects sum me up well: Burundi lover, born entrepreneur, world enthusiast.

I started my first company at school. It was a delivery service for NGOs and companies. Because of the war, the employees were unable to go home for lunch.

When I went to study in the UK, the experience from my first business helped me: I was able to study, work and start my next small business at the same time. All of these experiences ultimately led to me now running a social enterprise, a non-profit organization and a microfinance organization.

What does Kaz'O'zah mean?

Kaz'O'zah is Kirundi and means "Shining future". Kaz'O'zah is divided into three branches:

Kaz'O'zah Arts for the commercial sector
Kaz'O'zah Keza is a non-profit organization
Kaz'O'zah Fund for Microfinance

The story of Kaz'O'zah began in collaboration with artists. That's why the first branch is called Kaz'O'zah Arts. In response to the artists' needs, the non-profit organization Kaz'O'zah Keza followed. It helps artists and communities improve their business development skills and teaches them how to use their income to improve their lives. So it's about livelihood and financial inclusion. The alumni then benefit from the financial services of the Kaz'O'zah Fund. All these branches emerged from the needs of the market and the needs of customers.

What has been the highlight of all these experiences so far and what has been the biggest challenge?

When I came back from England as an interpreter, I had the opportunity to get a very well-paid job in an international organization. But I didn't want that. Instead, I told myself I wanted to work with rural communities and contribute to the success of the country. And I said to myself: Burundi has an employment problem. I don't want to come and take jobs away from those who don't have any. But I want to create jobs. Nobody believed in it. Everyone thought I was a little crazy.

And I'm proud to see how I did it. I didn't give up for 12 years and Kaz'O'zah has now reached over 20 Burundians and over 000 Ugandans. And I'm so proud that people's income has increased from $300 a day to $2 a day.

That's what makes me particularly proud: seeing that it's possible. Development is possible. And if you teach people something and give them a chance, they can develop. If given a chance, rural communities can thrive.

The biggest challenge I've faced so far... When I travel abroad to find cooperation partners, I always notice that many work with East Africa, but not with Burundi. This is very painful because you ask yourself: If everyone loves what you do, was it a mistake to be born in the wrong part of the world? For this reason, I have great respect for the SEZ, which has been working with Burundi for over 40 years.

What motivates you for your work?

The words I said to myself: I want to contribute to the development of Burundi. I'm putting everything I have into this. I am very passionate and very committed to making positive changes in this country and showing the world the great things about our country.

You mentioned the aspect of collaboration and how difficult it is sometimes to find cooperation partners abroad. How can the AMAHORO! Partnership play a role in your work in Burundi?

There is a saying in Kirundi “Ubwenge Burarahurwa”. Translated: Wisdom must be bought. It means that wisdom does not come by itself. Instead, you have to look for them somewhere else. In terms of cooperation, it means that we want to learn something from the Germans and we want the Germans to learn something from us too.

There is also another saying: “Iminwe iroyha inyuranye.” It means that hands taste good when they are exchanged. So in a figurative sense: I feed you, you feed me and then it tastes good. If we share our knowledge and what we can bring to the table, a good result will come out.

Thank you very much for this interview. Tuzosubira.

Your contact person

MUNA HASSABALLAH

Partnership work by AMAHORO! Country partnership between BW & Burundi

Tags Akeza, Burundi, Muyubira

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP INTERVIEW SEZ

In conversation with Divine Umulisa

Post Author From hawener
Post date April 25, 2024

In conversation with journalist and author Divine Umulisa Gashugi © Divine Umulisa Gashugi

Find out how to be part of AMAHORO! in conversation with journalist and author, Divine Umulisa Gashugi. Country partnership has become and what wishes she has as coordinator, especially for the Amahoro Burundi school initiative.

What is your job in AMAHORO! State partnership?

I have been a coordinator for the since 2022 Amahoro Burundi school initiative the Reutlingen Development Education Information Center (EPiZ) employed. Together with my colleagues Kafalo Sékongo, Gundula Büker and Natalia Zumarán, I am part of the AMAHORO Education Cluster! State partnership. We work with various actors in the field of education to make the partnership better known. Our motto here is: learn from each other instead of learning about each other.

To do this, I organize events where students from Baden-Württemberg have an exchange with young people from Burundi. We also support schools that are already active in the partnership.

How did you become part of the partnership?

First and foremost, of course, about my job as AMAHORO coordinator! School initiative. But also about my personal story: I was born in Rwanda and have already lived in Burundi. So I have many friends and acquaintances in Burundi. Before my role as coordinator for school partnerships, I worked with young people from Burundi for over ten years. For example, in creative projects for political education as well as in the areas of art and culture.

I now live in Baden-Württemberg and the partnership is an opportunity for me to continue my work with people in Burundi. I like that it is now my job to bring both cultures together. Every time I am in contact with our Burundian partners and colleagues, it feels as if we have always been working together. Our shared understanding makes our collaboration particularly productive.

What is your wish for the partnership?

My wish for the partnership is of course that it gets more visibility. Unfortunately, schools in Baden-Württemberg are still difficult to win over for a school partnership in general and it is particularly difficult when it comes to the partner country Burundi. Because the country is not that well known and is not a tourist destination for people in Germany. My wish would be that we financially support the school partnership with Burundi so that a partnership with the partner country of Baden-Württemberg becomes more attractive for the local schools.

Basically, I wish the AMAHORO! State partnership to increase visibility and strengthen its work on the anniversary.

Your contact person

MUNA HASSABALLAH

Partnership work by AMAHORO! Country partnership between BW & Burundi

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP INTERVIEW SEZ

In conversation with Bishop Dr. Bigirimana

Post Author From annalightly
Post date April 25, 2024

Bishop Dr. Éraste Bigirimana and Philipp Keil exchanged ideas during their visit to AMAHORO! State partnership and education (© SEZ).

On March 7, 2024, the Anglican Bishop of Bujumbura, Dr. Éraste Bigirimana, the SEZ office in Stuttgart. His vision: to strengthen education and connect teachers and students from both regions. The AMAHORO! State partnerships can support this.

What stands out to you about AMAHORO! State partnership?

I greatly value this partnership and am grateful that civil society, churches and other groups are involved in this partnership. I wish the partnership a happy anniversary and hope that it continues to grow.

What are your wishes for the future?

We would like to maintain good relationships within AMAHORO! Maintain and further expand the partnership. It is important to invest in youth and the young generation. The expansion and promotion of education, vocational training and professional development are essential for this. Because these are investments in the future and therefore projects in this area must be supported in Burundi.

Your contact person

MUNA HASSABALLAH

Partnership work by AMAHORO! Country partnership between BW & Burundi

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP INTERVIEW

In conversation with Shabani Ramadhani

Post Author From annalightly
Post date November 30, 2023

The Burundian festival director Shabani Ramadhani visited Stuttgart in November.

In conversation with Burundian musician and festival director Shabani Ramadhani, we learned more about the Marahaba Music Expo and the importance of culture for collaboration.

SEZ: AMAHORO Shabani, can you briefly introduce yourself?

Shabani Rhamadani: I am Shabani Ramadhani, a passionate artist and activist fighting for health rights. My goal is to encourage youth after the war. I have participated and performed in various musical projects and festivals in different countries. Because of my musical abilities, I was also a music teacher at Marahaba Art Center (MAC). I am also the founder of Marahaba Music Expo.

SEZ: What is Marahaba Music Expo and what was your motivation for starting Marahaba? What does Marahaba mean?

Shabani Rhamadani: Marahaba is Swahili and means “well done” or “hurrah”. The Marahaba Music Expo is a non-profit organization based in Bujumbura, Burundi. She is committed to educating the public, sharing innovations, and fostering collaboration through music and art. It was founded in 2018 to give hope to the youth. The organization's vision is a peaceful and vibrant Burundi. Their mission is to create innovation and creativity for a happy country. Our organization works in these areas:

Taj Music festival: This international music forum takes place every two years. It aims to promote dialogue between artists from Africa and other parts of the world. The Expo includes workshop programs, discussions, lectures and stage performances. Since its inception, five festivals have taken place, bringing about an artistic revolution in the music and creative industries in Burundi. More than 5000 local artists have benefited from the founding of this respected organization.

Education: Our organization runs the Marahaba Arts Center, where young women and men in Bujumbura can learn more about art, creativity and music. Our goal is to reduce the number of young people on the streets by giving them good training and a good sense of entrepreneurship. To this end, the Marahaba Center runs various programs that strengthen the skills of young women and men and teach them how they can become entrepreneurs through art and music.

Entrepreneurship for female artists: Our organization has supported female artists by giving them the opportunity to participate in artistic and social activities. Because the artists advocate for gender equality, they inspire other women.

SEZ: You were in Germany in mid-November: What was the occasion and how was your experience?

Shabani Rhamadani: I'm in favor of the film premiere of the short documentary "Facing new realities – How climate change is affecting the heart of Africa“, which took place in Stuttgart on November 9th. It was a very good experience for me as it was my first time in this city. During my visit I had the opportunity to meet various actors in Stuttgart's cultural sector.

SEZ: How can culture and music help bring people together, especially people from Baden-Württemberg and Burundi?

Shabani Rhamadani: Culture and music are a good way to bring people together and improve cooperation between Baden-Württemberg and Burundi. Because music and culture bring peace for everyone. They can also help convey various messages, such as climate protection or strengthening the engagement of young people.

SEZ: How can people follow and support your work?

Shabani Rhamadani: Any person, institution or organization is welcome to contact and collaborate with us. Anyone interested in supporting our work can reach us via the following channels: www.marahabafestival.com, info@marahabafestival.com or my phone number +25768475873.

SEZ: What are your wishes for the future?

Shabani Rhamadani: Our wish is to continue the cooperation between the city of Stuttgart and Burundi. We can achieve a lot through culture and music. It is also valuable when experiences are shared through exchange and collaboration between artists and festivals from both regions.

MUNA HASSABALLAH

Partnership work by AMAHORO! Country partnership between BW & Burundi

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP INTERVIEW

In conversation with Gundula Büker

Post Author From hawener
Post date July 12

Gundula Büker accompanied the delegation trip to Burundi as a civil society representative./ Gundula Büker accompagné the voyage of the delegation to Burundi and also represents the civil society. (Photo: Pascal HABONIMANA/ Fondation Stamm)

En français ci-dessous.

In an interview with Gundula Büker, we talked about the first delegation trip to Burundi since 2014. As a representative of civil society in the areas of education and youth, she accompanied the delegation of State Secretary Rudi Hoogvliet.

SEZ: What role did you play in the delegation trip to Burundi in June 2023?

Gundula Büker: I am a board member of the Baden-Württemberg development policy umbrella organization (DEAB e.V.), represents the DEAB member organizations Steering for development cooperation (REZ) and work as a one-world specialist promoter for global learning at EPiZ Reutlingen. So I was part of the delegation trip as a civil society representative with the focus on education and youth.

SEZ: What inspiration do you take home from Burundi?

Gundula Büker: Burundi is an impressive, beautiful country with an incredible number of committed initiatives and people. The country has a difficult past, which still has a diverse impact on people's lives today. I was impressed by the resilience, motivation and energy with which people develop visions and ideas and work to ensure that the predominantly young Burundians have a good, peaceful future. I will take this commitment home with me as an example.

But I also noticed that in many places the German image of the partner country Burundi focuses more on flaws and problems and contradicts the image of how Burundians see their country and that they want to paint. The fact that our perspective is still so dominant shows how the partnership is shaped by colonial continuities. As participants on the trip to Baden-Württemberg, we have to take this with us and make ourselves aware of it so that the partnership enables real dialogue and successful cooperation.

The fact that an SEZ liaison office was opened in Bujumbura during the delegation trip is a huge opportunity to find good ways to support the local commitment in solidarity and to maintain good relationships and a cooperative dialogue with actors in Burundi. Especially in the areas of education and youth, I think that successful cooperation can only succeed if the SEZ colleagues continue to pursue their good work and expand and strengthen it with the new office. Because youth and education are extremely important areas in which the partnership is designed and developed.

What I definitely take with me from the trip is motivation to continue to work on educational work for all people here in Baden-Württemberg. So that we can paint a differentiated picture of our partner country and see the challenges and opportunities and use the partnership as an opportunity to find out differences and similarities, to really get to know each other and to consider how we as partners define global responsibility and our roles in it.

SEZ: Which moment of the delegation trip did you like the most?

Gundula Büker: I gained so many experiences and impressions on this short trip that were so impressive and valuable! I was particularly touched by the intercultural workshop with young Burundian artists at the beginning. They presented a performance they had created about Burundi with text, music and dance, which we then reflected on together. This led to an open exchange in which we talked primarily about the history and present of Burundi, Germany's role in it and our relationship to it. And of course I was very happy to meet Burundian initiatives and committed people. For example, at the stakeholders’ meeting in Bujumbura organized by the SEZ. During the workshop phase, I was able to exchange ideas with potential cooperation partners who are active in the field of education and in work for and with young people. Those were moments when I... the experience of real encounter and experienced a very enriching dialogue that gave me the feeling of getting to know the country and its people a little better and understanding which topics we could and should continue to work on together.

SEZ: What do you hope for the partnership between Burundi and Baden-Württemberg?

Gundula Büker: I hope that we succeed, this partnership becomes a real learning partnership to let become. For me, this means that we learn from each other by enabling a dialogue between Baden-Württembergers and Burundians and thus achieve a reflective, power-critical and discrimination-sensitive partnership. The concept of the much-vaunted “eye level” doesn’t apply to me. Rather, it should be about practicing and maintaining a conscious approach to the different conditions in both countries and looking together at what responsibility this implies for the other partner. In order for these encounters to take place, on the German side there are: Ministry of State especially the SEZ with its employees in Burundi and Baden-Württemberg, the Council for Development Cooperation (REZ), which advises the state government on the Burundi partnership and the Burundian diaspora of central importance in Baden-Württemberg.

I would also like the knowledge about the partnership and common topics to be more integrated into the educational landscapes and youth work of both regions. In Baden-Württemberg, the partnership should be included in the education plan and curricula and school partnerships and youth encounters as well as joint educational and exchange activities should be promoted - ideally, of course, for target groups beyond the areas of school and youth!

I am full of hope that with good ideas, sensitive actions and open ears and hearts, this partnership will continue to have good soil on which a lot of good things can grow!

En discussion with Gundula Büker

Dans un entretien avec Gundula Büker, nous avons parlé du premier voyage d'une délégation au Burundi published in 2014. En tant que représentante de la société civile pour les themes de l'éducation et de la youth, elle accompagné la délégation du secrétaire d 'Etat Rudi Hoogvliet.

SEZ: What role will you present during the delegation trip to Burundi in June 2023?

Gundula Büker: I am a member of the administration council of the association Baden-Württemberg Development Policy Association, DEAB e.V., I represent the organization members of DEAB from the Conseil pour la coopération au développement (Council for Development Cooperation - REZ) and I work in tant que Promotrice spécialisée for l'aprentissage global à l'EPiZ de Reutlingen. Lors de ce voyage, j'ai ainsi participé en tant que représentante de la société civile au voyage de la délégation pour les domaines de l'éducation et de la youth.

SEZ: Quelles sont les impulses que vous ramenez du Burundi?

Gundula Büker: The Burundi is a country that is impressive, magnifique, and has a beaucoup de gens engagés. Le pays porte les traces de son lourd passé, qui se répercute de variouss manières sur la current situation. J'ai été impressionnée par la résilience, la motivation et l'énergie avec lesquelles les gens développent des visions et des idées et travaillent pour que les Burundais, jeunes pour la plupart, se construct un avenir bon et pacifique.

J'ai également constaté that les continuités coloniales sont present en de nombreux endroits. The action of the conscience and the traitors, even though they are in Bade-Wurtemberg, means that the partenariat permette a véritable dialogue and a coopération réussie.

Afin de trouver de bons moyens de soutenir solidairement l'engagement sur place et de renforcer les bonnes relations et le dialogue partenarial avec les actors au Burundi, the new bureau de liaison de la SEZ à Bujumbura, ouvert pendant le voyage de la délégation, est d'une importance centrale. Because of the domains of education and youth, the coopérations fructueuses need to be reused by the collègues of the SEZ for good work and training, encouragés par le new bureau, peuvent l'étendre et le renforcer afin de bien organizer and accompagner le partenariat.

Ce que je retiens également de ce voyage, c'est le renforcement de mon engagement en faveur d'un travail de formation pour tous les habitants du Bade-Wurtemberg, qui permette de thunder une image différenciée de notre pays partenaire et de saisir l' occasion d'explorer les défis et les possibilités, les différences et les points communs des deux pays partenaires, d'aprendre à se connaître mutuellement et de poser des questions sur la responsabilité global et notre rôle dans ce contexte.

SEZ: What is the moment you travel from the delegation that you have plus apprécié?

Gundula Büker: J'ai vécu tellement d'expériences et d'impressions lors des nombreuses activités de ce court voyage, qui étaient toutes très impressionnantes et précieuses en soi. It is particulairement touchée in an intercultural studio with young Burundian artists at the début du voyage, au cours duquel ils ont présenté un spectacle qu'ils avaient élaboré avec du texte, de la musique et de la danse et ont ensuite réfléchi avec nous . Il en a résulté un espace ouvert, dans lequel il a surtout été question de l'histoire et du présent du Burundi, du rôle de l'Allemagne dans ce contexte et de notre rapport à celui-ci. En plus, j'ai été très heureuse de rencontrer des actors burundais, notamment lors de la réunion des actors organisée par la SEZ à Bujumbura. Lors d'une phase d'atelier, j'ai pu échanger avec des personnes qui s'engagent dans le domaine de l'education et dans le travail pour et avec les youngen. Ce sont des moments où j'ai eu le sentiment d'une vraie rencontre et d'un dialogue très enrichissant, qui m'a donné le sentiment de connaître un peu mieux le pays et ses habitants et de comprendre les thèmes sur lesquels nous pourrions and developers continuer à working ensemble.

SEZ: What are you saying about the partnership between Burundi and Bade-Wurtemberg?

Gundula Büker: Je souhaite que nous réussissions à faire de ce partenariat un véritable partenariat d’aprentissage. Pour moi, cela signifie rendre possible un dialogue entre les actors qui favorise une conception réfléchie, critique du pouvoir et sensitive aux discriminations du partenariat. The notion of excellence “at the height of the eyes” is so obvious, it is not pertinent to the eyes. Il devrait plutôt s'agir de pratiquer et d'entrittir une relation consciente avec les différentes des deux pays et de voir ensemble ce que cela signifie pour les responsabilités respectives des participants. You are in Germany, out of the ministère d'État, it is part of the SEZ and its collaborators in the different regions, the Council for the coopération au développementt (REZ) and the Burundian diaspora in Bade-Wurtemberg quiuent un rôle central dans l' organization de ces processus.

En plus, je souhaite que le partenariat et les thèmes qui y sont liés sums davantage partie des paysages éducatifs et des activités de jeunesse des deux régions. In Bade-Wurtemberg, this is a fair example of the initiative in the plan of formation and programs, the promotion of partenariats scolaires et des rencontres de younges ainsi que des activités communes de formation et d'échange – même pour des groupes cibles dépassant les domaines de l'école et de la youth!

Je suis pleine d'espoir qu'avec de good idées, une action sensitive et des oreilles et des cœurs ouverts, ce partenariat continuera à trouver un bon terrain sur lequel beaucoup de bonnes choses pourront pousser!

Your contact person

ANNA EASY

ÖA & event management in AMAHORO! Country partnership between BW & Burundi

BW-BURUNDI PARTNERSHIP INTERVIEW

In conversation with Aline Dusabe

Post Author From hawener
Post date March 9, 2023

The Burundian journalist Aline Dusabe has been an advisor to the SEZ in Bujumbura since 2019 / La journaliste burundaise Aline Dusabe est depuis 2019 conseillère de la SEZ à Bujumbura (Photo: Aline Dusabe).

En français ci-dessous.

In conversation with Burundian journalist and activist Aline Dusabe, we talked about “Changing the Narrative” and what spaces she hopes for in the future. Aline Dusabe has been advising the SEZ since 2019 and is the contact point for the BW-Burundi partnership in Burundi.

SEZ: When we as SEZ talk about “Changing the Narrative”, we think, among other things, of a more diverse image of the African continent and the African population. We want to create space for different people and their stories. When we think about “Changing the Narrative,” we no longer want to report on people, but rather give them the opportunity to speak for themselves. Aline, what do you mean by “Changing the Narrative”?

Aline Dusabe: At SEZ we talk a lot about “Changing the Narrative”. There are different narrative styles in Europe and Africa. But also between generations. When talking about “Changing the Narrative,” it is important to accept who you are, your position, and your narrative. That you accept the narratives in your own country and become aware of the impact these narratives have.

For me it is easier to talk to young African and European people about narratives. In projects with the new generation, young African and European people can rethink their opinions and narratives and create new narratives - with aspects from Africa and Europe.

Projects like this, for example SEZ school partnerships between Burundian and Baden-Württemberg schools, enable encounters and exchange.

SEZ: The SEZ would like to create new meeting places and speaking spaces for Afrodiasporic civil society in Baden-Württemberg and our partners in Burundi. For us, this also includes opening existing spaces to a broader audience. Aline, what spaces and resources do you think are needed to communicate a more diverse image of Burundi?

Aline Dusabe: I am grateful for SEZ’s efforts so far to present Burundi in a more diverse way. Especially the first one Africa Forum Baden-Württemberg and the BW-Burundi Conference last year, when representatives from Burundi were guests in Baden-Württemberg. Civil society and partners in Baden-Württemberg listened to them and listened to their wishes and needs. There was a space for the diaspora and it was a wonderful opportunity to learn. These events provide spaces for Burundian people and enable partnerships and relationships. Exchange and dialogue – not one-sided partnerships – are the most important thing for me.

In addition, the visits from Germany to Burundi help to establish a more diverse understanding of Burundi. A few weeks ago, for example, Philipp [Keil, note d. Red.] visited Burundi and looked at traditional dances. Such visits allow you to get to know the Burundian culture and way of life. A good partnership is not characterized by financial resources, but by cultural exchange and learning from each other.

SEZ: If we look at existing spaces and places, who do you think is currently particularly underrepresented?

Aline Dusabe: In particular, women, women with disabilities and members of the third ethnic group in Burundi, the Abatwa, are underrepresented. On International Women's Day we are therefore taking the opportunity to draw attention to the needs of women in Burundi. Also at BW-Burundi meeting At this year's Fair Trade trade fair, the focus is on women and their commitment. In Burundi, the young generation is also underrepresented. Young people have no place in politics and no opportunity to speak about their needs. Many young people in Burundi don't have a job. There is high unemployment and dissatisfaction, but no space to report it. Young people are discriminated against in Burundi, so I hope for more projects with the new generation. Because today she has nothing to say in Burundi.

SEZ: One last question for you Aline, what future do you hope for?

Aline Dusabe: With a view to the SEZ, I dream of a world with new narratives, where not only Burundian girls and boys from the school partnerships learn German, but German children learn Kirundi. A world in which people learn more about the shared colonial history of Germany and Burundi. I'm also thinking about friendships between Burundian and Baden-Württemberg communities. Because in the end it is partners and friendships in which narratives change.

En discussion with Aline Dusabe

Dans un entretien with the journalist and activiste Burundaise Aline Dusabe, our avons parlé de "Changing the Narrative" et des espaces qu'elle espère voir se développer à l'avenir. Depuis 2019, Aline Dusabe conseille la SEZ and est le point de contact pour le partenariat BW-Burundi au Burundi.

SEZ: Lorsque nous comme SEZ, parlons de “Changing the Narrative”, nous pensons between other parts of an image plus diversification of the African continent and the African population. Nous voulons créer un espace pour des personnes différentes et leurs histories. Quand nous pensons à “Changing the Narrative”, nous ne voulons plus parler des gens, mais leur offrir la possibilité de parler pour eux-mêmes. Aline, what do you think of “Changing the Narrative”?

Aline Dusabe: A la SEZ, nous parlons beaucoup de “Changing the Narrative”. There are different styles of combat in Europe and Africa. Mais also between the generations. Quand on parle de “Changing the Narrative”, it is important d’accepter qui on est, quelle est notre position et quels sont nos récits. Que l'on accepte les récits dans son propre pays et que l'on prenne conscience de l'impact de ces récits.

Pour moi, it is also easy to hear from the récits with the young Africans and Europeans. In the cadre of projects with the new generation, the young Africans and Europeans can reconsider their opinions and their récits and create new types of récits – with the aspects of Africa and Europe.

The projects, based on examples from the partenariats scolaires de la SEZ between the écoles Burundaises and the écoles du Bade-Wurtemberg, permetettent des rencontres et des échanges.

SEZ: The SEZ is the creation of new countries and spaces of parole for the civil society of Afro-diasporics in Bade-Wurtemberg ainsi que pour nos partenaires au Burundi. Pour nous, cela implique également d’ouvrir les espaces existants à un public plus large. Aline, quels espaces et quelles resources sont nécessaires, selon toi, pour communiquer une image plus diversifiée du Burundi?

Aline Dusabe: Je suis reconnaissante pour les efforts déployés jusqu’à present par la SEZ pour presenter le Burundi de manière plus diversifiée. Notamment lors du premier forum Africain du Bade-Wurtemberg et de la conference BW-Burundi de l’année dernière, lorsque des représentants du Burundi ont été invités dans le Bade-Wurtemberg. The civil society and the partners of Bade-Wurtemberg are on the outside and on the entendu quels étaient leurs souhaits et leurs besoins. It is available in space for the diaspora and has a great opportunity to practice. These events offer space for people in Burundaises and permetent des partenariat et des relations. L’échange et le dialogue – and non des partenariats unilatéraux – sont pour moi les plus importants à cet égard.

In other words, the visits to Burundi also include a comprehensive overview and diversification of Burundi. In another example, Philipp [Keil, ndlr] visited Burundi and had several assistants in the traditional dances. The telles visites permetettent de découvrir la culture et le mode de vie burundais. Un bon partenariat ne se caractérise pas par les moyens financiers, mais par l'échange culturel et par le fait que l'on apprend les us des other's.

SEZ: Si nous regardons les espaces et les lieux existants, qui est, selon toi, particulièrement sous-représenté actuellement ?

Aline Dusabe: Les women, les femmes handicapées and les members of the three ethnic groups of Burundi, les Abatwa, sont particulièrement sous-représentés. C'est pourquoi nous profits de la Journée internationale de la femme pour attirer l'attention sur les besoins des femmes au Burundi. The women and their engagement are at the center of the encounters in BW-Burundi at the fair trade fair this year. De plus, au Burundi, the young generation is sous-représentée. Les kids don't have the place in politics and they don't have the possibility of speaking to other people. The name of the young Burundians is not pas d'emploi. The chômage and the mécontentement sont élevés, mais il n'y a pas d'espace pour en parler. Les children are victims of discrimination in Burundi, this is what they see in addition to projects with the new generation. Car aujourd'hui, elle n'a rien à dire au Burundi.

SEZ: A final question for Aline, what avenir espères-tu?

Aline Dusabe: En ce qui concerne la SEZ, je rêve d'un monde avec de new récits, où non seulement les filles et les garçons burundais issus des partenariats scolaires applaufent l'allemand, mais où les enfants allerands applaufent le kirundi. A world of the gens apprent davantage sur the histoire coloniale commune de l'Allemagne et du Burundi. Outside, I spend time with friends between the municipalities of Burundais and the cells of Bade-Wurtemberg. Car au final, ce sont les partenariats et les amitiés qui font évoluer les récits.

Your contact person

ANNA EASY

ÖA & event management in AMAHORO! Country partnership between BW & Burundi

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En français ci-dessous.

In an interview with Gundula Büker, we talked about the first delegation trip to Burundi since 2014. As a representative of civil society in the areas of education and youth, she accompanied the delegation of State Secretary Rudi Hoogvliet.

En discussion with Gundula Büker

Dans un entretien avec Gundula Büker, nous avons parlé du premier voyage d'une délégation au Burundi published in 2014. En tant que représentante de la société civile pour les themes de l'éducation et de la youth, elle accompagné la délégation du secrétaire d 'Etat Rudi Hoogvliet.

Your contact person

ANNA EASY

En français ci-dessous.

In conversation with Burundian journalist and activist Aline Dusabe, we talked about “Changing the Narrative” and what spaces she hopes for in the future. Aline Dusabe has been advising the SEZ since 2019 and is the contact point for the BW-Burundi partnership in Burundi.

En discussion with Aline Dusabe

Dans un entretien with the journalist and activiste Burundaise Aline Dusabe, our avons parlé de "Changing the Narrative" et des espaces qu'elle espère voir se développer à l'avenir. Depuis 2019, Aline Dusabe conseille la SEZ and est le point de contact pour le partenariat BW-Burundi au Burundi.

Your contact person

ANNA EASY

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