On November 21, 2023, in Bujumbura, the Government of Burundi and the African Development Bank inked two grant agreements totaling $13.15 million to execute Phase 1 of the Water Sector and Climate Resilience Building Support Programme (PASEREC-Phase1).
The agreement was signed by Burundian Minister of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Audace Niyonzima, and Pascal Yembiline, the Bank’s Country Office Manager in Burundi. This initiative aims to enhance Burundi’s resilience to climate change impacts and foster sustainable socio-economic improvements in the provinces of Cibitoke, Bubanza, Kayanza, Cankuzo, Ruyigi, Gitega, Mwaro, and Rutana.
The funding will facilitate the establishment of 18 electrically powered drinking water supply systems and 202 modern, automated public standpipes. Additionally, around 30 water catchment systems, inclusive of high-flow boreholes, and a 300 linear-kilometer water supply and distribution network will be constructed. Furthermore, 275 ecological latrines will be strategically placed near schools, health centers, and markets.
Over a span of five years, the program is expected to deliver potable water and create a healthier living environment for over 1.2 million people. Furthermore, it anticipates generating 9600 jobs in the water, agriculture, and green sectors.
Minister Niyonzima expressed gratitude for the financing, highlighting the continuous support of the Bank in Burundi’s endeavors to enhance the living standards of its people. He underscored the project’s alignment with government priorities, emphasizing its coherence with the National Development Plan’s strategic focus and areas of intervention.
Pascal Yembiline emphasized the African Development Bank Group’s unwavering commitment to bolstering Burundi’s developmental initiatives, especially in reshaping its economy in line with the National Development Plan and the visionary document, “Burundi, a Country Emerging in 2040 and Developed in 2060.”
Source: Africa Development Bank