How to support young people’s aspirations in Burundi?

Youth employment continues to be one of the most urgent and complex socio-economic challenges in Burundi, where nearly half of the population is very young - approximately 42–45% are under 15 years old, and those aged 15-24 represent about 20% of the total population (≈13 million in 2022) 

A study conducted in July 2024 as part of the "Integrated Response to Promote the Protection and Resilience of Returnees to Burundi" project - funded by the European Union - highlights both the opportunities and obstacles related to the socio-professional integration of young people. 

Returnees in Burundi are citizens who fled the country due to political instability, violence, or economic hardship - particularly during the civil war (1993–2005) and the political unrest following the 2015 elections. Many have since returned from neighboring countries such as Tanzania, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Upon their return, these individuals often face major challenges, including land disputes, inadequate housing, limited access to essential services, and difficulties re-entering the job market - especially in rural areas where economic opportunities are already scarce.

To address some of these challenges, the project focuses on the socio-professional integration of young people, aiming to support the reintegration of returnees into their communities through practical means - starting with access to decent work.

The study aims to provide insight into the needs and expectations of Burundian youth, while also reflecting on the achievements of past and ongoing initiatives. It sets the groundwork for developing vocational training programs tailored to young people's aspirations, enhancing their employability and empowerment. 

The study points to significant growth in the services sector, which now dominates the local economy. This sector offers substantial employment opportunities for youth. However, these are often undermined by persistent challenges, including a lack of specialized skills, limited access to finance, and weak professional networks. 

Employers are actively seeking qualified young professionals, underscoring the urgent need to align vocational training with actual labor market demands. Additionally, word-of-mouth remains a key recruitment channel, reinforcing the critical role of networks in facilitating access to employment. 

The career ambitions of young Burundians are diverse but often aligned with high-potential sectors rooted in their local environments. Respondents showed strong interest in areas such as craftsmanship, agriculture, livestock, and agri-food processing. 

The study underscores the value of vocational training and internships in equipping youth with practical skills and expanding their professional networks. It advocates for stronger collaboration among training institutions, local businesses, and civil society organizations. 

To address these challenges effectively, the study recommends coordinated actions, including: 

In the future, AVSI intends to invest in improving the effectiveness of existing programmes and fostering an environment more conducive to the economic empowerment of young people, strengthening collaboration between training institutions, businesses, civil society organisations, banks and the government to develop tailored socio-professional integration programmes that meet the multi-sectoral needs of young people. 

The “Integrated Response to Foster the Protection and Resilience of Returnees in Burundi” project seeks to promote the sustainable reintegration of Burundian returnees in their communities of origin. The project spans 3 years and an half (November 2023 – April 2027) and is implemented by a consortium of seven organizations: International Rescue Committee (IRC), AVSI, We World-Gruppo di Volontariato Civile (WWGVC), Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), Terre des hommes (Tdh), Association des Femmes Rapatriées du Burundi (AFRABU), and Icirore C’Amahoro (ICCA). Activities are carried out across seven provinces: Cankuzo, Cibitoke, Kirundo, Makamba, Muyinga, Rutana, and Ruyigi. 

Under this initiative, AVSI is responsible for activities related to the prevention of gender-based violence and the provision of vocational training linked to job creation. 

The project targets 1,680 direct beneficiaries and 9,000 indirect beneficiaries - comprising 80% returnees and 20% members of host communities. Interventions focus on protection, resilience, and social cohesion.