BUJUMBURA, August 18, 2026 — Burundi’s President and African Union (AU) Chairperson Évariste Ndayishimiye has congratulated Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election for a second term.
Ndayishimiye, in a message issued in his capacity as both Burundi’s President and Chairperson of the African Union, extended his “warmest congratulations” to Hichilema following his victory in Zambia’s presidential election.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia announced Tuesday that Hichilema had secured a second five-year term after winning about 61.4% of the vote. His main challenger, Brian Mundubile, received about 38%.
“On behalf of the people and Government of Burundi, and of the entire African Union family, I convey my best wishes for continued success as he leads the Zambian people toward greater peace, unity, and prosperity,” Ndayishimiye said.
He added that Hichilema’s continued leadership should benefit not only Zambia but also the wider African continent.
The congratulatory message comes as Zambia begins the process of transitioning into Hichilema’s second term, following the August 13 presidential election.
Hichilema’s victory extends his presidency beyond the first term he began in 2021, when he defeated then-President Edgar Lungu after several unsuccessful presidential bids.
His first term was marked by efforts to address Zambia’s debt crisis, including a major debt restructuring programme, alongside measures aimed at restoring economic growth and attracting investment in the mining sector.
The election, however, was not without controversy. Vote counting was temporarily suspended after attacks on election officials and the theft of ballot papers, while opposition figures raised concerns over the conduct of the electoral process.
Ndayishimiye’s message places the African Union behind Zambia’s continued pursuit of peace, unity and prosperity as Hichilema prepares to begin his second mandate.
