Aim <p>This study was conducted to examine the competencies and strategies required by Burundian nurses to implement health education in prevention of diseases, and to explore nurses’ attitudes to their role and their experiences in carrying out this role. Results will be used to develop interventions to increase nurses’ competence in promoting community-based disease prevention intervention.</p> Design <p>Descriptive and cross-sectional study.</p> Method <p>This quantitative, cross-sectional study assessed health education competencies among nurses at Ndora Hospital. From April 16–30, 2024, 40 contracted nurses (80% response rate) completed a researcher-designed questionnaire covering essential skills, engagement, improvement strategies, best practices, challenges, benefits, and tools. Data were analyzed using SPSS v27, with ethical principles upheld.</p> Results <p>Nurses require strong communication, teaching, and emotional intelligence skills for effective health education. Key barriers include workload and lack of time, while organizational support and training are major motivators. Continuous professional development, integrated nursing programs, and culturally sensitive, individualized approaches are crucial. Challenges include patient disengagement and resource limitations. Health education empowers patients, promotes prevention, and reduces healthcare costs, with printed materials and multimedia presentations being preferred resources.</p> Clinical trial number <p>Not applicable.</p>