Nnenna Nwabufo, the African Development Bank (AfDB) Director General for East Africa, praised the effective implementation of AfDB-funded initiatives in Burundi, highlighting significant advancements during her visit from March 18-21. Key projects under review included the East African Nutritional Sciences Institute (EANSI), which has benefited from over $9 million in AfDB funding. Accompanied by Burundi’s Minister of Education, François Havyarimana, Nwabufo observed notable improvements in educational facilities and specialized training programs, contributing to the development of the East African Community.
The EANSI project stands out for its renovated infrastructure, well-equipped labs, and active student engagement in nutrition and food processing courses. It currently hosts 129 students from Burundi, Tanzania, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Minister Havyarimana highlighted the center of excellence’s role in enhancing specialized skills within Burundi, underlining AfDB’s dedication to fostering sustainable development through quality education.
Additionally, Nwabufo’s visit to the Port of Bujumbura showcased the modernization efforts co-financed by the AfDB and the European Union, totaling $48.93 million. Amid concerns over Lake Tanganyika’s rising water levels due to climate change, Nwabufo reassured support for effective climate resilience measures.
Her engagement with the Burundian private sector further emphasized the AfDB’s commitment to the nation’s socio-economic progress, with plans to further evaluate and support private sector development by the year’s end.
This visit underscores the African Development Bank’s pivotal role in supporting key development projects in East Africa, showcasing tangible impacts on education, infrastructure, and climate resilience in Burundi.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
