Burundi faces challenges in mining transparency and youth migration

In Burundi, President Evariste Ndayishimiye has criticized the management of the mining sector, alleging opacity and lack of state benefit. During a meeting with ministry officials, the President claimed that mining rights are being distributed through private arrangements rather than official decrees, preventing the national treasury from receiving adequate revenue. He noted that the current system allows certain groups to control resources and highlighted disagreements regarding the development of a new mining code.

Separately, the organization PARCEM has raised alarms regarding the mass migration of Burundian youth. Faustin Ndikumana, the national director of PARCEM, stated that young people are fleeing to neighboring countries like Kenya and South Africa due to a lack of opportunities. The organization cited insufficient investment in quality training, infrastructure, electricity, and access to credit as primary drivers that prevent youth from pursuing economic self-promotion within the country.