Burundi - Youth Unemployment Reduction and Diaspora Engagement

The proposed project intends to play a leading role in the implementation of the national employment policy and strategies by using an innovative approach to address the issue of youth employment through market-based training modules and by engaging members of the Burundi Diaspora to play a key role. The Burundi Diaspora comprises a wealth of human resources with varied skills which, if properly managed, would be beneficial for the development of the country. This project aims to reintegrate these skills into the overall development of Burundi, with a particular emphasis on knowledge transfer and exchange of experience in all its forms to address the fragility factors that undermine the employment of Burundian youth. In doing so, this Project will contribute to strengthening the relationship between the Government and its Diaspora. Finally, it will have a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable youth by providing them with better prospects for the future, thus contributing to strengthening the country's resilience. The Project comprises three (3) components: (i) a baseline assessment, market study and mapping of the Burundi Diaspora and awareness raising activities (ii) a series of business and vocational skills trainings coupled with work placements and livelihood support targeted at different categories of youth, and (iii) Capacity Building for the Government of Burundi to promote the engagement of the Diaspora in the economic financing of the country. The total cost amounts to UA 1,000,000 or approximately USD 1,398,000. It is expected that the activities will be implemented for twenty-four (24) months in two provinces: Bujumbura Mairie and Gitega. Currently, these two provinces have a high number of unemployed, underemployed or otherwise disadvantaged youth.