Kirundi is a Bantu language spoken by the people of Burundi, a small country in East Africa. It is also spoken in parts of neighboring countries such as Tanzania, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The history of Kirundi dates back centuries, with influences from other Bantu languages as well as Arabic and French. It is the official language of Burundi and is used in government, education, and media.

For Burundian children and adults living in Australia, learning Kirundi can help them connect with their cultural roots and communicate with family members back home. It can also open up opportunities to learn more about the rich history and traditions of Burundi. 

Parents from Burundi who are in Australia complain of the breakdown in communication with their children who are quickly learning English to the expense of Kirundi. Bringing Kirundi back into families means better communication between intergenerations of Australian Burundians.

With funding from the Department of Education and Training, through the Homework Club Initiative 2022-2024, the Australian Burundian Community in Victoria is committed to reviving the language of Kirundi within the Burundian Community and beyond.