Gitega is the political capital of Burundi, situated in the center of the country on the Burundian central plateau. It is located approximately 62 kilometres (39 mi) east of Bujumbura, which serves as the nation's largest city and economic hub. Gitega currently ranks as the fourth largest city in the country.
Historically, Gitega served as the royal capital of the Kingdom of Burundi until the monarchy was abolished in 1966. In December 2018, former President Pierre Nkurunziza announced plans to restore the city's status as the political capital. This transition became official on 16 January 2019 following a parliamentary vote, with all branches of government scheduled to relocate to Gitega over a three-year period.