YAOUNDE, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) -- Central African countries will open a branch of traditional language research in Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi, according to an official statement released here on Friday.

The regional center for research and documentation of oral traditions and development of African languages (CERDOTOLA), which has its headquarters in Yaounde, the capital of Cameroon, will have a representation in Bujumbura to expand its influence, the statement said.

In the statement, the CERDOTOLA executive secretary, Charles Binam Biko, said he had paid a visit to Burundi and had seen a building made available for the purpose. The official said Burundiis committed to "equipping it with all the necessary logistics."

The statement also announced the appointment by the Burundian authorities "to the respective functions of CERDOTOLA representative and administrative assistant." Rose Nzobambona was named director general of arts and culture, and Rose Ndayiragije, coordinator of the national forum of artists for development.

A regional center with international status, CERDOTOLA was created in 1977 with the support of UNESCO. It has 10 member states including Angola, Burundi, Cameroon, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, and Chad.

An accord to host the headquarters of this body was signed with Cameroon on Dec. 7, 1979.

After several years of hibernation, the institution relaunched its activities in 2004 with the functioning of the Administration Council, the Scientific Council and the Executive Secretariat.

"The Burundi office is the first that we are opening. Very soon, others will follow," Binam Biko said, in reference to the DRC, the Republic of Congo and Chad as possible candidates.

He also indicated the possibility of opening an office in Gabon, which is not a member state.

"Gabon is not a member of CERDOTOLA, but she wishes that CERDOTOLA will open up to her, " the official said.