Some key results achieved recently through WBG supported projects, include:

Boosting electricity production

Three projects financed by IDA aim to enhance access to electricity: The Jiji and Mulembwe Hydropower Project has added 49.5 MW of clean energy to the national grid. The Solar Energy in Local Communities Project - Soleil Nyakiriza has begun providing off-grid solar energy to 350 schools and 361 health centers, as well as supporting the sale of 73,000 solar systems to 25,000 households, improving access for rural communities. The Regional Rusumo Falls Hydropower Project has added 26.7 MW to the national grid. Additionally, The ASCENT Burundi Project is expanding grid access in rural areas, targeting over 1.2 million new connections by 2029.

More jobs for young people

The Skills for Jobs – Women and Youth Project has made notable progress in youth empowerment, having placed over 7,562 young people—73% of whom are women—in apprenticeships. Nearly 500 young people have also received entrepreneurship training. The project is developing new curricula and training teams to better align post-primary vocational education with market needs, in collaboration with the private sector. Maastricht University is providing advanced training for teachers at the Institute of Digital Technologies (ITN), where 125 students, including 22 women, are currently enrolled. These initiatives aim to boost professional integration and strengthen Burundi’s future workforce in digital technologies.

Unlocking private sector investment opportunities

Through its Local Champions Program, IFC identified 150 local companies and screened 40 high‑potential leads, with several now under active investment consideration. By building this pipeline of viable projects, IFC is helping to attract private capital, stimulate business growth, and create jobs.