East Mpanda Rural Development Project

The 13-year project targeted the development of 6,000 ha of savannah just north of the capital, Bujumbura, by resettling almost 4,000 families from overpopulated hill areas. About 1,800 families living in the area also participated. Water was redirected from nearby rivers to feed a system of irrigation canals for rice fields and coffee plantations. Food production was significantly increased and diversified.

Schools, dispensaries, roads, warehouses and drinking water systems were built to serve 15 villages. The project supported participation by local women and farmers’ cooperatives. 

Source: IFAD