Bujumbura, Burundi – February 20, 2025 – A new market access project for enterprises in Burundi, called UGUSHORA (to sell/export in Kirundi), has been launched to support economic development and job creation by promoting export-oriented investments and businesses. The project, funded by the Embassy of the Netherlands in Burundi, is implemented by the TRAIDE Foundation in partnership with TradeMark Africa (TMA).
The €1.95 million, two-year initiative is expected foster partnerships between local and Dutch companies, unlock investments, and promote innovation in horticulture, fisheries, and essential oils. According to the Burundian government the project aims to enhance market linkages to regional and international hubs, boosting the global competitiveness of Burundian products. The project will focus on value chain development, addressing non-tariff barriers (NTBs), and promoting trade facilitation through technical assistance to businesses. It will also support harmonizing private sector initiatives, create a conducive business environment, and strengthen commercial ties to attract regional and international interest in Burundi.
The project aligns with the Government of Burundi’s national development priorities, supporting the country’s vision for socio-economic growth by enhancing trade, economic diversification, and job creation, according to Minister of Trade, Transport, Industry, and Tourism, Marie Chantal Nijimbere.
The minister emphasized the need for such initiatives to improve market access for local producers: “One of the major barriers our producers, especially micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), face is limited market access due to inadequate technology, investment, and non-compliance with production standards. These challenges affect the competitiveness of ‘Made in Burundi’ products in regional and international markets. The UGUSHORA project will address these issues by facilitating trade, building exporters’ capacity, and improving the competitiveness of Burundian products, unlocking new market opportunities.”
Ted Hunink, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Cooperation at the Netherlands Embassy, emphasized the project’s significance in enhancing trade and export opportunities for targeted enterprises in Burundi. “UGUSHORA, meaning ‘to export,’ is a direct response to the call made by the Burundian Government during the investors’ roundtable in December 2024. This initiative reinforces the Netherlands’ commitment to supporting Burundi’s economic objectives while strengthening its position in regional and global markets.”
The project aims to increase export volumes by 30% for targeted sectors such as horticulture, fisheries, and essential oils. It also aims to expand market access for 65% of participating MSMEs and private sector entities, accelerate the digitization of export processes, and enhance trade facilitation. “By empowering MSMEs through trade facilitation and capacity building, UGUSHORA will create jobs, boost incomes, and improve livelihoods in Burundi,” said Christian Nibasumba, TradeMark Africa’s Burundi Country Representative.
