The government aims to position Burundi as an emerging country by 2040. To achieve this goal, the administration is focusing on the development of ICT as a key accelerator for economic and social transformation.

Burundi's vice president Prosper Bazombanza launched a $92 million project on Thursday to improve internet access and digital public services. The project dubbed PAFEN (Projet d’appui aux fondations de l’économie numérique- Support Project for the Foundations of the Digital Economy) is funded by the World Bank to help Burundi achieve its goal of becoming an emerging country by 2040 and a developed nation by 2060.

"Everyone understands the importance that the government of Burundi places on this project, which comes at a crucial time as we embark on a digitalization drive to support the structural transformation of our economy and ensure transparent, effective, and efficient governance," Bazombanza stated.

This initiative aligns with Burundi's vision to become an emerging country by 2040 and a developed nation by 2060, with digital technology as a key development driver. It follows a national survey conducted earlier this year as part of the project to assess the penetration of ICT in the country.

The survey results are yet to be published but Burundi lags behind in this area. According to a report from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) released in December 2023, the country ranks 43rd out of 45 African ITU member countries, with a score well below the continental average of 23 points.

PAFEN’s main challenge will be to close the digital divide by 2028, facilitate access to digital services in the public sector, and establish a legal framework for data protection. Additionally, the project seeks to attract private investment to develop digital infrastructure, creating the necessary conditions for Burundi's digital growth.

Samira Njoya