A new initiative aimed at strengthening Burundi’s export capacity and fostering economic development has been launched under the name UGUSHORA (meaning “to export” in Kirundi). This ambitious project seeks to enhance market access for Burundian enterprises, attract investments, and create jobs by supporting export-oriented businesses.
Funded by the Embassy of the Netherlands in Burundi, UGUSHORA is a €1.95 million, two-year initiative implemented by the TRAIDE Foundation in collaboration with TradeMark Africa (TMA). The project will establish strategic partnerships between Burundian and Dutch businesses, unlock new investments, and promote innovation in key sectors such as horticulture, fisheries, and essential oils. By addressing trade barriers and strengthening value chains, UGUSHORA aims to enhance Burundi’s global competitiveness.
Minister of Trade, Transport, Industry, and Tourism, H.E. Marie Chantal Nijimbere, emphasized the project’s alignment with Burundi’s national development strategy.
“This initiative directly supports our vision for socio-economic transformation by boosting trade, diversifying our economy, and creating sustainable employment opportunities. Through UGUSHORA, we will bridge gaps in technology, market intelligence, and production standards that currently hinder our businesses from competing effectively in regional and international markets.”
A key component of the project is improving trade facilitation by addressing non-tariff barriers (NTBs) and providing technical assistance to businesses.
UGUSHORA will also support private sector coordination efforts, enhance the investment climate, and foster commercial ties to attract regional and global interest in Burundian products.
Ted Hunink, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Cooperation at the Netherlands Embassy, highlighted the project’s importance in responding to Burundi’s call for investment partnerships during the December 2024 investors’ roundtable. “UGUSHORA reinforces the Netherlands’ commitment to supporting Burundi’s economic aspirations. By expanding the market opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship, this project will strengthen Burundi’s position in regional and global trade.”
The initiative aims to deliver significant economic benefits, including a projected 30% increase in export volumes for key sectors. Additionally, it targets expanding market access for 65% of participating micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in export-oriented value chains. The project will also accelerate the digitization of export processes, reduce inefficiencies, and streamline trade facilitation mechanisms.
“By empowering MSMEs through targeted trade interventions and capacity building, UGUSHORA will create employment, raise incomes, and improve livelihoods across Burundi,” said Christian Nibasumba, TradeMark Africa’s Burundi Country Representative.
As Burundi seeks to strengthen its position in regional and global markets, UGUSHORA represents a strategic step toward unlocking the country’s export potential and driving long-term economic growth.
This article was published by Githua Kihara, an editorial consultant for FEAFFA’s Freight Logistics Magazine. For any inquiries, please contact us via email at editorial@feaffa.com or freightlogistics@feaffa.com, or reach out to Andrew Onionga directly at onionga@feaffa.com / +254733780240.
