The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group approved the Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for Burundi for the period 2024-2029.
This strategic framework outlines investments in two key areas: agricultural value chains and economic governance to enhance the resilience of Burundi’s economy, and the development of energy and transport infrastructure to foster inclusive and sustainable growth.
Strengthening Economic Resilience
Pascal Yembiline, the Bank’s Country Manager for Burundi, emphasized the CSP’s goal of bolstering Burundi’s economic resilience.
This will be achieved by reducing the country’s vulnerability and creating conditions for sustained and inclusive growth.
The CSP aims to deepen cooperation between the Bank and the Burundian government, supporting the country’s efforts to achieve economic emergence and transform its economic and institutional landscape.
Improving Livelihoods
Effective implementation of the CSP is expected to enhance Burundi’s performance in the targeted sectors, leading to a positive impact on the living conditions of the entire population.
Agricultural Development Initiatives
In the agricultural sector, the Bank will focus on developing irrigation infrastructure for 4,000 hectares of land and piloting hill irrigation on 1,000 hectares.
The Bank will also support the development and protection of 25,000 hectares of watersheds connected to irrigated areas.
The introduction of advanced technologies and climate-resilient production systems aims to boost cereal productivity by 20 to 50% and enhance the livestock sector.
Additionally, the Bank will promote and facilitate investments in the agricultural sector.
Infrastructure Development for Growth
To promote inclusive and green growth, the Bank plans to support the construction and rehabilitation of resilient multimodal transport infrastructure.
This includes building a 283-kilometer electric railway line and a 45-kilometer cross-border road, which will improve connectivity and access to markets for farmers and businesses.
Expanding Energy Access and Promoting Renewables
The Bank will also assist in expanding existing electricity distribution networks, constructing new transmission and distribution networks, and connecting households to the grid.
The focus will be on promoting renewable energy sources and energy efficiency. The plan includes the development of 150 kilometers of distribution lines, 12,000 new grid connections, and three new hydroelectric power plants.
African Development Bank’s Investment in Burundi
As of March 31, 2024, the African Development Bank’s active portfolio in Burundi encompassed 17 projects with a total funding of US$456.67 million, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the country’s development.