Vital’o FC marked a historic day for Burundian football with a 2-1 victory over Bumamuru FC in a competitive match played ahead of the official inauguration of the Intwari Stadium, a new FIFA-recognized venue opened on Saturday in Bujumbura.
The match, staged as part of the inauguration program, saw Vital’o assert their dominance in front of a packed crowd. Kessy Jordan Nimbona opened the scoring in the 36th minute, giving Vital’o a deserved first-half lead. Bumamuru responded quickly, with Alfred Nkurunziza leveling the score in the 41st minute to send the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.
Vital’o secured the win in the second half when Shabani Didier Zokora struck in the 63rd minute, sealing a hard-fought victory and setting the tone for the celebrations that followed.
Shortly after the match, President Évariste Ndayishimiye officially inaugurated the Intwari Stadium, describing the facility as a symbol of national pride and progress. He praised both local and international partners who contributed to the project, particularly the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Fédération de Football du Burundi (FFB).
“This stadium is the result of collective effort and cooperation,” Ndayishimiye said. “It reflects our vision for Burundi and the determination of our people to build a better future.”
The Head of State also called on Burundians to actively contribute to national development.
“Every Burundian has a role to play. Each one of us must be a hero in the development of our country,” he said.
The ceremony was also attended by the Vice President and the Prime Minister, alongside senior football officials. Among them were FFB President Muyenge Alexandre and Révérien Ndikuriyo, honorary president of the federation and secretary-general of the ruling CNDD-FDD party. FIFA and CAF were represented by Davis Ndayisenga, CAF President Souleiman Hassan Waberi and Miottocinzia, as well as other national and international authorities.
The inauguration concluded in the evening with music and a fireworks display, celebrating what officials described as a historic milestone for Burundian sport. President Ndayishimiye formally declared the Intwari Stadium open, noting that it was built with contributions from Burundian citizens and the support of partners committed to advancing football and national unity.
