Burundi, AfDB outline next phase of strategic investments

Burundi and the African Development Bank deepened development cooperation after Prime Minister Nestor Ntahontuye met AfDB East Africa Director General Alex Muburu in Bujumbura on April 8, with both sides reviewing support for priority sectors including energy, infrastructure, agriculture and youth employment.

According to Burundi’s public broadcaster, the meeting also included AfDB’s representative in Burundi, Mouna Kadidjatou Diawara, and focused on aligning future support with the country’s development priorities. Officials said the talks reviewed existing achievements and areas for further backing.

The energy sector featured prominently in the discussions, with RTNB highlighting the Jiji-Mulembwe hydropower project as one of the flagship initiatives supported by the bank. AfDB project documents say the two plants are designed to add about 48 megawatts of installed capacity, more than doubling Burundi’s previously installed national generation base.

Transport infrastructure was also part of the exchange, including road building and plans for a railway link, while agriculture remained central because it employs much of Burundi’s population. RTNB said both sides discussed adding more value through agro-processing to help stimulate the economy.

The talks also underscored social investment, especially in vocational training and education for young people. That emphasis is consistent with AfDB-backed programs in Burundi, including a youth and women’s agropastoral entrepreneurship and professional development project launched with strong bank financing.

Both parties further stressed the role of public-private partnerships, with the bank signaling support for private investors in government priority sectors. AfDB’s published Burundi portfolio and country materials also reflect a broader focus on energy access, agricultural modernization and infrastructure-led growth.