Key announcements made at the Burundi Renewable Energy Access Days
Bujumbura, 22 October 2024 – The third edition of the Burundi Renewable Energy Access Days (BREAD 2024) took place in Bujumbura on 15-16 October 2024. Organised by the Ministry of Hydraulics, Energy and Mines (MINHEM), the World Bank and the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE), the event reflects Burundi’s ambition to ensure universal access to electricity by 2030. BREAD 2024 was held under the patronage of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Burundi, represented by the Minister of Hydraulics, Energy and Mines.
Held over two days, the event offered a varied programme of expert presentations, discussions and networking opportunities. At the same time, participants were able to take advantage of an exhibition of innovative products and services in the field of renewable energy, such as electric vehicles, solar systems and clean cooking.
The Minister of Hydraulics, Energy and Mines, Ir. Ibrahim Uwizeye, stressed the efforts needed to transform the country’s energy sector. According to him, an overall budget of USD 3 billion will be required to meet Burundi’s energy needs between now and 2030. He also pointed out that Burundi’s energy capacity should reach 213.95 MW by 2027, compared with 102 MW in 2024. “This vision aims to guarantee universal access to energy for 100% of Burundi’s population, and to support the country’s industrialisation”, said Minister Uwizeye, expressing his gratitude to the international partners.
BREAD 2024’s main objectives included:
- Improving Regideso’s operational and financial performance;
- Improving access to electricity for all Burundians;
- Promoting private investment in the energy sector;
- Encouraging regional integration to promote competitive energy exchanges.
The World Bank’s Resident Representative in Burundi, Hawa Cissé Wague, presented the priority reforms to be implemented to achieve the goal of universal access to electricity. These reforms include strengthening the energy sector regulator, improving Regideso’s financial performance, and revising the electricity tariff structure to better reflect operating costs.
The US Ambassador to Burundi, Amb. Lisa J. Peterson, has announced that US partners are extending their support with new funding of USD 5 million to increase electrification in Burundi, via WEZA Power.
On the sidelines of the event, the World Bank and the Agence Française de Développement signed a co-financing agreement to accelerate access to clean, sustainable energy in Burundi through the ASCENT project.
This edition of BREAD 2024 marks a decisive step forward in Burundi’s efforts to guarantee a sustainable and accessible energy future for all its citizens.