Bujumbura, Thursday, May 7, 2026 – The Minister in charge of Mineral Resources, Energy, Industry, Trade and Tourism, Dr. Hassan KIBEYA, received in audience a delegation from the World Bank Group , including the Regional Director for Water and the Country Representative.

The discussions focused on the need to strengthen ongoing efforts by making water and sanitation more profitable for rural and urban populations. They also reviewed investment opportunities in the water sector and the legal framework currently being consolidated, with some laws already approved and others expected to be signed soon.

The Minister highlighted efforts to make drinking water more profitable, noting that 17 new water supply systems have been completed this year, with an ambitious target of 80 additional systems in the next fiscal year. He emphasized the importance of large-scale projects, such as those linked to Lake Tanganyika, and the establishment of a monitoring system and an investor platform to further energize the water sector. How to empower local communities in water management and how to structure a model of collaboration were also part of the discussions. Discussions included as well future delegation visits and project announcements.

In this context, the talks also included the WSSAB (WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION ACCES – BURUNDI) project and COMPACT, considered essential levers to improve access to water and strengthen community resilience.

The two parties further exchanged views on the tourism sector, highlighting Burundi’s natural and cultural assets and the efforts undertaken to increase visibility.

Finally, they agreed to pursue further exchanges. The Minister confirmed the ministry’s availability and commitment to work together to make water and sanitation more profitable for the population. Agence Burundaise de l’Hydraulique et de l’Assainissement en Milieu Rural Regideso Burundi