A 2006 ceasefire in one of the most densely populated countries in Africa started a lengthy recovery process after 13 years of ethnic warfare that claimed an estimated 200,000 Burundian lives. The agriculture sector, on which 90% of the population is dependent, vastly underperforms. Inadequate maternal and child health is the most serious health problem and is compounded by highly damaged infrastructure. The fertility rate is 6.6 children per woman with a national contraceptive coverage rate of only approximately 10%.
Conflict Mitigation and Reconciliation
USAID supports conflict mitigation and reconciliation to advance a sustained peace in Burundi following the prolonged civil war by reinforcing the capacity to deal with conflict constructively, fostering dialogue among diverse groups, and helping Burundians reconcile with their past. The conflict over land continues to be a highly sensitive and contentious issue, especially as refugees are repatriated and the Burundian population grows.
Good Governance
USAID’s Good Governance activities are helping to move Burundi toward a stable, peaceful and productive democracy by improving policy development, implementation and oversight, while supporting constructive relationships among the executive branch, civil society and media.
This program reinforces the capacity of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to act as agents for key reforms and to support CSO advocacy capabilities in the oversight of public institutions. USAID programming helps to reinforce the institutional capacity of CSOs and support their increased participation in political and decision-making processes.
Health
Although the Government of Burundi has implemented a policy of free access to basic health services for pregnant women and children under five, it continues to struggle to meet the demand and rehabilitate the poor health facility infrastructure. USAID is supporting maternal and child health (MCH) services in two provinces that are vulnerable due to high rates of poverty, droughts and an influx of returning refugees. Development food aid is targeting vulnerable mothers and children, enhancing their livelihoods through health and nutrition activities. Efforts to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS are focusing on vulnerable populations in the Northern provinces including along major transportation routes.
Economic Growth
USAID is helping to accelerate the agriculture sector to serve as the leading engine for broad- based development. USAID supports the expansion of trade and investment opportunities, agricultural development and productivity.
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