A growing number of Burundian celebrities and public figures are seeking Rwandan citizenship, signaling a shift in regional dynamics and Rwanda’s rising appeal as a haven of stability and opportunity. In September 2025, Rwanda naturalized 32 Burundians, the largest single group of Burundian nationals to receive citizenship at once, out of 74 foreign applicants from more than 20 countries. Among the most notable was DJ Ira, whose real name is Grace Divine Iradukunda, a celebrated Burundian music mixer. Earlier this year, she publicly requested citizenship from President Paul Kagame, expressing deep admiration for Rwanda’s role in shaping her career and personal growth. Her request was granted immediately, symbolizing the strong emotional and professional ties some Burundians now feel toward their neighboring country.
This surge in applications reflects more than celebrity migration, it points to a broader movement among Burundians seeking integration into Rwandan society. Many are driven by political uncertainty and economic hardship back home, while Rwanda’s reputation for safety, progressive governance, and economic opportunity continues to attract attention. Since 2014, Rwanda has hosted over 40,000 Burundian refugees, most of whom reside in the Mahama camp in the eastern part of the country. While many remain in refugee status, a growing number have transitioned into local communities through employment, education, and now, full citizenship.
For those who have made the leap, acquiring Rwandan nationality is more than a legal milestone, it is a declaration of identity, belonging, and hope for a better future. The trend underscores Rwanda’s expanding influence in the region and its role as a destination for those seeking stability and renewal. As more Burundians follow in the footsteps of high-profile figures like DJ Ira, the movement may reshape cultural and social ties between the two nations, fostering deeper integration and mutual understanding.