Francine Niyonsaba

“Burundi government should adopt laws that promote athletes in Burundi for instance”

“There isn’t much money in athletics. We just win and receive something that allows us to survive with the main objective of avoiding depending on others. On the contrary, it is the country which should honor its athletes”

“I will take this opportunity to visit the University of Ngozi as it promised to award me for my silver medal”

“Determination and courage are the best friends of the future”

“I started being ranked seventh on the list in 2012 Olympic Games, the second in 2016 and though I don’t know what the result will be, I want to be a gold medalist in 2020”

“I will firstly endeavor to train myself to improve my record and do better in 2020 Olympic Games”

“I did it. It’s wonderful and it’s fabulous. The pacing was really perfect. I want to thank all the people who came to cheer us”

“I am feeling seriously wonderful. I didn’t realize I could run a world record, but it was my first time here. I came here to do what I have to do”

“It doesn’t make sense. For sure, I didn’t choose to be born like this. I love running, and I will not stop running”

“They treat us as if we are cheats. We deserve to be respected as athletes, as champions.”

“I am always smiling when I wear this national flag of Burundi. I did all I was supposed to do to defend this title despite the fact it was not easy. I did it for god and for my country. I want to be an inspiration for the youth and children in Burundi”