Burundi launches Jiji hydroelectric plant, adding 32.5MW to national grid in push for energy self-sufficiency and sustainable development

In a landmark moment for Burundi’s energy future, President Evariste Ndayishimiye this week inaugurated the Jiji hydroelectric plant, a crucial step in the nation’s ambitious drive towards energy self-sufficiency and sustainable economic development. Located in the picturesque Songa zone of Bururi Province, the Jiji plant is poised to inject 32.5 megawatts (MW) of clean power into the national grid, significantly boosting electricity access for households, businesses, and industries across the country.

This inauguration marks a pivotal milestone in Burundi’s broader energy strategy. With the 17MW Mulembwe plant also nearing completion, the combined output of these two vital projects is projected to be an impressive 235 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy annually. This substantial increase in power generation capacity is set to provide electricity to an estimated 15,000 households, 7,000 businesses, and 1,700 industrial facilities, laying a robust foundation for enhanced productivity, job creation, and improved quality of life.

A Vision for Energy Independence: From Scarcity to Self-Sufficiency

Burundi, a landlocked nation in East Africa, has historically grappled with significant energy deficits, leading to frequent power outages that impede economic activity and daily life. The country’s electricity access rate has been among the lowest in the East African region, with a particularly stark disparity in rural areas. Prior to these new developments, Burundi’s installed electricity capacity stood at a modest 47.5MW in 2020. President Ndayishimiye proudly announced that with the commissioning of Jiji and other projects, this capacity has now surged to over 118MW in 2025, marking a remarkable transformation in just five years.

This dramatic increase in installed capacity is not merely about numbers; it represents a fundamental shift in Burundi’s energy landscape. By leveraging its abundant hydropower potential and integrating other renewable sources like solar, Burundi is actively reducing its reliance on costly and environmentally damaging imported fossil fuels. This transition enhances national energy security, stabilizes electricity prices, and contributes to a cleaner environment, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. The strategic importance of such projects cannot be overstated for a nation aiming for sustainable growth.

President Ndayishimiye underscored this vision, stating, “Jiji hydroelectric plant will produce more power in addition to the solar energy generated from Vugizo, Buhiga, and Mubuga sites, built thanks to the close collaboration with the government of Burundi and development partners. This is an opportunity for investors in the sector of energy.” These existing solar sites, though smaller in scale, demonstrate Burundi’s commitment to a diversified renewable energy mix, creating a more resilient and sustainable power system.

A Collaborative Endeavor: Multilateral Support Fuels Development

The ambitious Jiji and Mulembwe dams project, with a total cost of $320 million, is a testament to strong international cooperation. It has been made possible through the concerted efforts and financial backing of the Burundi government and several key development partners: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the European Investment Bank (EIB), the World Bank, and the European Union (EU). Such multi-partner funding models are crucial for large-scale infrastructure projects in developing countries, as they pool resources, share risks, and bring diverse expertise to the table.

The African Development Bank’s Commitment: Lighting Up Africa

The African Development Bank has been a steadfast partner in Burundi’s development journey, with its involvement in the Jiji and Mulembwe project aligning perfectly with its flagship “High 5s” strategic priorities, particularly “Light up and Power Africa.” This initiative aims to achieve universal energy access across the continent by 2030, recognizing that energy is the bedrock of economic growth and human development. Pascal Yembiline, AfDB Country Manager in Burundi, emphasized this, stating, “As a longstanding partner of Burundi, the African Development Bank is proud to have contributed to the implementation of this infrastructure project, which is fully in line with its strategic priorities, the Hi-5s.”

The AfDB’s strategy extends beyond mere power generation; it encompasses strengthening transmission and distribution networks, promoting renewable energy solutions, and fostering an enabling environment for private sector investment. The Bank’s support to Burundi, including its participation in the recently announced National Energy Compact and its partnership with the World Bank Group on “Mission 300” (aiming to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030), underscores a comprehensive approach to tackling energy poverty. The Jiji project is a tangible outcome of this broader vision, demonstrating how strategic investments can translate into real-world impact for communities.

The European Investment Bank’s Role: Sustainable Infrastructure for Africa

The European Investment Bank, the long-term lending institution of the European Union, has a significant presence in Africa, supporting sustainable infrastructure projects across the continent. Edward Claessen, Head of the EIB Regional Hub for East Africa, highlighted the project’s significance: “The fact that the Jiji and Mulembwe dam project is a renewable energy project, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, is particularly significant. Our financing for this project formed part of the European Union’s strategy to develop clean, sustainable infrastructure in Africa and is also aligned with decarbonisation efforts needed by companies to grow.”

The EIB’s involvement reflects its commitment to the EU’s “Global Gateway” strategy, which aims to mobilize €300 billion in investments for sustainable infrastructure worldwide by 2027. This includes a strong focus on clean energy, digital transformation, and climate action in Africa. The EIB’s funding for Jiji and Mulembwe is not just about providing capital; it’s about promoting best practices in environmental and social sustainability, ensuring that infrastructure development contributes positively to both the economy and the ecosystem. The EIB has been active in Africa since 1965, investing over €60 billion in various sectors, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the continent’s development.

The World Bank’s IDA Fund: Concessional Support for Vulnerable Nations

The World Bank, through its International Development Association (IDA) fund, plays a critical role in supporting the world’s poorest countries. IDA provides highly concessional loans (zero or very low-interest credits) and grants, with repayment periods stretched over 30 to 40 years, specifically targeting nations at high risk of debt distress. This type of financing is crucial for countries like Burundi, which face significant development challenges and limited access to commercial markets.

Hawa Cissé Wague, World Bank representative in Burundi, emphasized the transformative potential of Jiji, stating, “It will improve access to electricity for the population, support industrialisation, job creation and economic growth.” The World Bank’s ongoing commitment was further demonstrated on January 10, 2024, when its IDA fund provided an additional $50 million to Gitega (Burundi’s capital) to help complete the hydroelectric plants. This additional funding underscores the Bank’s flexibility and responsiveness in ensuring the successful delivery of critical development projects, especially when unforeseen challenges arise. The World Bank’s engagement in Burundi extends to various sectors, including education, health, and water infrastructure, all aimed at fostering inclusive growth and poverty reduction.

The European Union’s Broader Development Agenda

The European Union’s contribution to the Jiji and Mulembwe project is part of its wider development cooperation with Burundi and the African continent. The EU is a major donor and partner for Africa, focusing on areas such as sustainable energy, good governance, human rights, and economic integration. Its support for clean energy projects like Jiji aligns with its ambitious climate targets and its commitment to helping developing countries transition to low-carbon economies. Through various instruments and initiatives, the EU seeks to strengthen resilience, promote stability, and create opportunities for sustainable growth across Africa.

Overcoming Hurdles: Resilience in the Face of Delays

The journey to commissioning the Jiji and Mulembwe dams was not without its significant challenges. Construction, which began in December 2019 with an initial completion target of 42 months, faced multiple setbacks that pushed the timeline and increased the cost from an initial $270 million to $320 million. These delays highlight the inherent complexities of large-scale infrastructure development in challenging environments, compounded by global crises.

Minister of Energy and Mines, Ibrahim Uwizeye, cited several critical factors:

• Fuel Shortages: Burundi has experienced chronic fuel shortages in recent years, which directly impacted the transportation of materials, operation of heavy machinery, and overall logistics on the construction sites. Such shortages can bring work to a standstill, leading to significant delays and increased operational costs.
• Landslides during Rainy Seasons: The geographical terrain in the south of Burundi, where the dams are located, is susceptible to landslides during heavy rainy seasons. These natural phenomena can render access roads impassable, damage infrastructure, and pose safety risks to workers, severely disrupting construction schedules.
• Russia-Ukraine Conflict: The geopolitical conflict in Eastern Europe had far-reaching global economic consequences. For a project like Jiji, it led to significant disruptions in global supply chains, making it difficult and more expensive to procure essential equipment, machinery, and raw materials. The conflict also caused fluctuating prices for commodities, including fuel and construction materials, directly contributing to the project’s cost escalation.
• COVID-19 Pandemic: The global COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented disruptions. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and labor shortages impacted the movement of personnel (including international experts), the delivery of specialized components, and overall project management. The pandemic’s economic fallout also strained national budgets and diverted resources, further complicating financing and implementation.

Despite these formidable obstacles, the perseverance of the Burundi government and its development partners ensured the project’s continuation and eventual completion. The additional $50 million from the World Bank’s IDA fund in early 2024 was crucial in overcoming the financial hurdles imposed by these unforeseen global and local challenges, demonstrating a shared commitment to the project’s success.

Transformational Impact: Powering Progress and Prosperity

The successful inauguration of the Jiji hydroelectric plant is expected to have a profound and multifaceted impact on Burundi’s socio-economic landscape:

• Improved Access to Electricity: For the 15,000 households gaining access to electricity, this means improved quality of life. Children can study longer under electric light, homes are safer, and communities can access modern amenities. It reduces reliance on traditional, often unhealthy, and expensive energy sources like kerosene lamps and firewood.
• Support for Industrialization: Reliable and affordable electricity is a prerequisite for industrial growth. The 1,700 industrial facilities gaining access to power will be able to operate more efficiently, expand production, and reduce their operational costs. This will stimulate manufacturing, agro-processing, and other industrial activities, which are vital for economic diversification and value addition.
• Job Creation: Both during the construction phase and in the operational phase, the project has created and will continue to create direct and indirect jobs. The increased power supply will also enable businesses to grow, leading to further job creation across various sectors. This is particularly crucial for Burundi’s young population, addressing unemployment challenges.
• Economic Growth: By removing a major bottleneck to economic activity (energy scarcity), the Jiji and Mulembwe plants will act as catalysts for overall economic growth. Businesses can operate longer hours, productivity increases, and new investments become more attractive. The World Bank’s Hawa Cissé Wague rightly noted that Jiji is a “transformational project with strong social and economic impact,” directly supporting industrialization, job creation, and economic growth.
• Attracting Investment: A stable and growing energy supply is a key factor for attracting both domestic and foreign direct investment. President Ndayishimiye’s remarks about “an opportunity for investors in the sector of energy” highlight the potential for further private sector engagement in Burundi’s power sector, as well as in other industries that benefit from reliable electricity.
• Environmental Benefits: As a renewable energy project, Jiji contributes significantly to reducing Burundi’s carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels. This aligns with global climate action goals and positions Burundi as a contributor to sustainable development.

Burundi’s Broader Development Context

While the Jiji project represents a significant leap forward, Burundi continues to navigate a complex development landscape. The country has faced historical challenges including political instability, poverty, and vulnerability to climate shocks. Infrastructure development, including energy, transport, and digital connectivity, remains a critical area for investment to unlock the nation’s full potential.

The government’s long-term vision for reliable, affordable, and clean energy, as evidenced by the Jiji project and other renewable energy initiatives, is a clear signal of its commitment to overcoming these challenges. International partnerships, like those with the AfDB, EIB, and World Bank, are indispensable in this journey, providing not just financial resources but also technical expertise and institutional support.

Conclusion: A Bright Spark for Burundi’s Future

The inauguration of the Jiji hydroelectric plant stands as a powerful symbol of progress and resilience in Burundi. It is a testament to the nation’s determination to achieve energy self-sufficiency and foster sustainable economic development, even in the face of significant global and local challenges. The project’s success is a shining example of effective multilateral cooperation, demonstrating how international financial institutions can work hand-in-hand with national governments to deliver transformative infrastructure.

As the Jiji and soon-to-be-completed Mulembwe plants begin to deliver their full capacity, they promise to illuminate thousands of homes, power countless businesses, and drive industrial growth, creating a brighter and more prosperous future for the people of Burundi. This investment in clean, renewable energy is not just about generating electricity; it’s about empowering a nation, fostering economic opportunity, and building a more sustainable future for all.

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photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

1st July, 2025