Burundi: Selected Issues

This Selected Issues paper on Burundi discusses economic growth, fragility, and non-price competitiveness. In the aftermath of the 2015 crisis that has further fragilized the Burundian economy, the authorities have developed and adopted in 2018 a 10-year National development plan. The origins of Burundi’s fragility are historical, political, and institutional, leading to weak economic performance for the country. More efforts are needed to move the country out of fragility. Focus on investing in the country's long-term peacebuilding would be key. Transparency, social equity, and the fight against corruption are all major actions needed to ensure political stabilization. Also, special attention should be devoted to building a stronger and more resilient economy. Key bottlenecks to Burundi's competitiveness include climate shocks, energy and water constraints, and public management inefficiencies. After several years of instability in Burundi substantive efforts to improve competitiveness have been made.