Hutu, Rundi in Burundi

Introduction / History

Rundi refers to people from the Republic of Burundi. They can be either Hutu or Tutsi.

Rundi Hutus live in nine countries, including Burundi. Their language is Rundi. The two Rundi-speaking groups have had serious violent conflicts since Burundi achieved independence from Belgium in 1962.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Hutus are usually farmers, and Tutsis are pastoralists. In addition to conflict over political power is land usage. All over the world, there are conflicts between farmers, who settle on fenced in land and pastoralists who are cut off from grazing lands because of the fences.

These two ethnic groups are also dominant in neighboring Rwanda. Whatever affects one, affects the other as well. When there is ethnic conflict, refugees pour over the border. Ironically, there is much intermarriage between the Hutus and Tutsis.

Rundi Hutus enjoy drumming and dancing; they are for enjoyment, but also as a way to reinforce their identity as a people. They have folk dancing groups called Indore, that compete with one another. They enjoy social gatherings that involve storytelling, singing, and telling jokes.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Rundi Hutus are highly Christianized, and God can use them as his ambassadors.

What Are Their Needs?

The Rundi peoples need to forgive one another and focus on serving the Lord. As it stands, jealousies and revenge issues stop many from spiritual growth.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move like fire in Rundi Hutu churches and families, spurring them on to love and good works.
Pray for the Lord to use them as Christ’s ambassadors to those without a gospel witness in Sudan.
Pray for the Lord to purify their churches with revival fire.
Pray for the Lord to show himself powerful and good by providing abundantly in the coming years.

Text Source:   Joshua Project