By Alumni Relations Department

Christian Nibasumba is a seasoned Burundian professional with over 15 years of experience in regional integration, private sector development, financial governance, and entrepreneurship across East and West Africa. As Country Representative for TradeMark Africa (TMA) in Burundi since 2019, he closely collaborates with diverse stakeholders, including governments, the private sector, donor communities, and civil society, to lead strategic initiatives that enhance regional trade. This includes supporting the simplification and automation of import and export processes, aligning activities with broader goals of economic integration and SME capacity building. He has also served briefly as Advisor to support the establishment of TMA's presence in West Africa.

Holding a Master of Business Administration in Management & Finance from United States International University-Africa, Class of 2010, Christian also earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Uganda Martyrs University and completed executive training on Economic Growth at Harvard Kennedy School in 2018.

A bilingual professional fluent in French and English, with advanced Swahili and native Kirundi, he has spearheaded key programs such as incubation initiatives at the Burundi Business Incubator (BBIN), where he directed SMEs training in collaboration with IFC, BidNetwork, and local banks. Prior to joining Christian Aid, he worked at the US Embassy in Bujumbura as Grants Coordinator in the Public Affairs/Diplomacy Section, managing public diplomacy grants and supporting local associations. At Christian Aid, he advised on inclusive market development across six African countries, coordinating pro-poor value chain projects while integrating approaches like Participatory Market Systems Development (PMSD).

His collaborations with in-country donors alongside local networks like the private and financial sectors have been instrumental in driving sustainable economic growth and policy advocacy for farmers and entrepreneurs. Currently, Christian serves on several boards, including KCB Burundi since 2021 as Board Vice-Chair, sitting on the Risk, Credit, and Strategy committees. KCB Burundi is the subsidiary of KCB Group, the largest bank in the East African region, which opened its doors in Burundi in 2012 to ensure the country, as an East African Community member state, benefits from regional integration. He also serves as an Independent Trustee on the CDE-Great Lakes Think Tank and advises on SME funding selections for SNV Burundi.

Christian's career exemplifies resilient and dynamic leadership in fostering inclusive markets, regional prosperity, and cross-sector partnerships.