Presentation of the Government’s Achievements Report for the First Half of 2024-2025 to the Parliament

In accordance with Article 168, paragraph 4 of the Constitution of the Republic of Burundi, Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca presented the implementation report of the Government’s programme for the first half of the fiscal year 2024-2025 to the Parliament, convened in Congress, in the hemicycle of  Kigobe, in Bujumbura City.

During his presentation, the Prime Minister indicated that the physical implementation rate of activities stands at 70.53%, adding that the budget execution rate stands at 67.93%. He explained that the public procurement process, which extends into the beginning of the second half of the year, explains the low implementation rates of some activities. He clarified the questions and concerns raised by the Honourable members of parliament regarding the delay in the distribution of agricultural inputs. The Prime Minister stated that demand for inputs has exploded, and as a result, delivery has become difficult to manage, especially since the majority of raw materials come from abroad, resulting in significant pressure on foreign currency demand.

Regarding the vision of developing agriculture that creates wealth and catalyses food security, he explained that efforts are being made to address farmers’ concerns, and that this continues to motivate them, as demonstrated by the increase in production observed today, especially for corn.

As far as strengthening ISABU’s capacity in seed production is concerned, the Prime Minister explained that in addition to research and innovation, ISABU has been tasked with operating as a seed industry, adding that despite the increase in its budget, the needs remain enormous. Thus, he said, there are some shortcomings in carrying out its missions, particularly for the construction of irrigation infrastructure to face up to climate change.

Regarding the slowness in public procurement, the Prime Minister indicated that the reform process in this area is underway.