Burundi is situated in the instable region of the Great lakes in Africa. This country has suffered a lot during the violent decades that have passed by.

Esther Kamatari writes her personal story about her connections with this country. She is a member of the royal family. Her father was a brother to the king. She grew up, knowing that her family was important and had a great responsibility. The education that she got is mentioned. When Burundi was freed from the colonial Belgium yoke the king was chased away and the monarchy made obsolete. Her father did not survive these turbulent times. Shortly afterwards Esther fled to France.

It is amazing how great the attraction of former colonial powers is to fleeing Africans. In France and other European countries she starts a career as a model, but she never loses her touch with Burundi. She engages in humanitairian aid for Burundi.

At times she travels back to Burundi. Between the lines I sense a longing for the good old days of the monarchy, and her family in power (or in service?).

At the end of the book you will find a factsheet about Burundi.

Esther Kamatari – Princesse des rugo. Mon histoire – 2001