Burundi: PASEREC brings clean water and green jobs to 500,000 people

Burundi: PASEREC brings clean water and green jobs to 500,000 people

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In Burundi,where erratic rainfall and recurring droughts test daily survival,access to clean water is no longer a privilege — it’s becoming a right. The African Development Fund (ADF),through its Climate Action Window,has approved an additional $8.6 million grant to expand the first phase of the Water Sector Support and Climate Resilience Building Program (PASEREC).

This new funding adds to the $13.3 million approved in 2023 by the African Development Bank (AfDB),extending the program by one more year — until 2029. Its mission: to deliver safe drinking water,better sanitation,and sustainable livelihoods to 500,000 people across the provinces of Bubanza,Cibitoke,Cankuzo,Rutana,and Ruyigi — regions among the hardest hit by floods,droughts,and cholera outbreaks.

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Under PASEREC,17 solar-powered water systems will be built,alongside eco-friendly sanitation facilities and irrigation networks designed to boost food production and strengthen household incomes. The program is also expected to create 2,700 green jobs,80% of which will go to youth and women,empowering local communities through small-scale agriculture,water system maintenance,and climate-smart farming techniques.

Beyond infrastructure,PASEREC focuses on empowering local cooperatives to manage water services sustainably,while promoting gender equality through training and access to finance. Women and young farmers will gain new agricultural skills and entrepreneurial opportunities,driving inclusive rural growth. “Access to clean water transforms lives. It keeps children in school,gives women more time to earn income,and helps entire communities face the future with strength and confidence,” said Mecuria Assefaw,Manager of the Water and Sanitation Division at the African Development Bank.

The program is co-financed by the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) and the Government of Burundi,representing a strong partnership for climate resilience and inclusive growth. With PASEREC,Burundi is building a sustainable future where water,solar energy,and community leadership come together to drive dignity,progress,and hope.