Commemorating the Defining Battle of the Great Lakes Region: August 13 – The Battle of Rumonge
For the East African nation of Burundi, August 13th is a day of deep historical importance. It marks the Commemoration of the Battle of Rumonge, a pivotal moment in the country’s struggle for independence and a defining event that helped shape its national identity.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Tanganyika in southern Burundi, Rumonge—historically known as Mkalama—is a small port city with a rich cultural legacy. For centuries, it served as a vital trading hub. However, its place in history was secured during the 19th century, when the Battle of Rumonge unfolded and forever marked the city’s role in Burundi’s story.
