Burundi: civil society concerned about the consequences of the ban on two-wheelers in Bujumbura
Burundian security forces in Bujumbura.
(Illustrative image) REUTERS/Mike Hutchings
Text by: RFI Follow
2 mins
Since March 11, 2022, the Ministry of the Interior has strictly prohibited any circulation of two-wheelers in Bujumbura.
A measure that hit hard the activities of a city that was already facing a recurring shortage of gasoline.
Words and actions for the awakening of consciences and the evolution of mentalities (Parcem), one of the few organizations of independent civil society active in the country, notes that this measure has had serious consequences.
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When the decision
to ban motorcycle taxis, bicycles and tuk-tuks in Bujumbura
came into force a month ago, Burundi's economic capital was already experiencing a shortage of several basic necessities.
Since then, the situation has only worsened with a very severe shortage of gasoline and diesel, on a scale never equaled in the memory of Burundians, according to numerous testimonies.
Activities in slow motion
“
The fuel shortage complicated things.
Activities are slowed down.
There is explosive food inflation as a result of this supply disruption.
So it's a feeling of bitterness and it's a feeling of resignation.
People are grumbling and do not know where to turn
,” explains the president of Parcem, Faustin Ndikumana.
Consequences of this decision
: activities are almost paralyzed in Bujumbura.
Those with vehicles spend most of their time queuing outside a gas station.
Those who don't have one have to walk for hours to get to work and back home.
Alarm bell
Faustin Ndikumana is therefore ringing the alarm bell: “
The government should really consider, deepen this issue before it reaches its climax because the situation is more and more worrying, even alarming even
.
»
Contacted by RFI last night, the Burundian Minister of the Interior and Public Security, General Gervais Ndirakobuca declined to comment.
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To read also: Burundi: after the "reopening" of the BBC, "slow and limited progress" for RSF
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Burundi
Transportation