The Project for Economic Empowerment and Youth Employment (Paeej) has been warmly received by young people in Muhuta commune, located in Burundi's Bujumbura province. The initiative focuses on agricultural and livestock development, aiming to provide opportunities and skills to the local youth population. The project addresses the need for economic engagement among young residents, offering pathways to self-sufficiency and improved livelihoods within the community. Its implementation reflects efforts to empower this demographic through practical, sector-specific training and resources.
Transforming Lives: Eliezer's Success
Ndayikunda Eliezer, a graduate in educational sciences, stated that the Project for Economic Empowerment and Youth Employment (Paeej) transformed his life. Eliezer recounted his experience, stating, "I was entirely dependent on my parents. One day, during an exchange with a friend, he told me about the benefits of this government project. I then submitted my laying hen farming project to Paeej. My proposal was accepted." Paeej subsequently financed Eliezer's initiative by providing veterinary medicines and poultry feed. Eliezer now commercializes more than 150 eggs per month and at least 20 chickens. "I commercialize more than 150 eggs per month and at least 20 chickens. This activity allows me to meet my needs," he said. He encouraged other young people, stating, "I ask young people not to wait indefinitely for a salaried job, but to think about creating their own activities. I also urge youth to organize themselves into associations, as funding mechanisms favor collectively managed projects."
Expanding Horizons: Cubahiro's Growth
Fréderic Cubahiro previously practiced subsistence farming on a small family plot. Following intervention from the Project for Economic Empowerment and Youth Employment (Paeej), Cubahiro received support in inputs, equipment, and training on improved cultivation techniques. This assistance enabled him to expand his potato cultivation to half a hectare. Cubahiro stated that his last harvest yielded a significant profit.
"I practiced subsistence farming on a small family plot," Cubahiro explained. "Paeej granted me support in inputs, equipment, and training on improved cultivation techniques. I was able to extend my potato cultivation to half a hectare. The last harvest brought me a significant profit." He added, "This project has transformed my perception of farming: because it has become a real business. I am proud to say that I am financially autonomous."
Project Impact and Youth Reception
In Muhuta, agriculture and livestock farming have become genuine levers of empowerment for young people, largely due to financing from the Project for Economic Empowerment and Youth Employment (Paeej). The initiative provides resources and training, enabling youth to transition from subsistence activities to more profitable ventures. This support helps participants establish and expand their agricultural and livestock projects, fostering financial autonomy and contributing to local economic development. The project's emphasis on practical skills and direct funding aims to create sustainable opportunities for the region's youth.
Call to Action and Future Outlook
Several young people in Muhuta commune have benefited from financing provided by the Project for Economic Empowerment and Youth Employment (Paeej) to develop their income-generating activities. The initiative has supported these young individuals in establishing and expanding various agricultural and livestock projects, contributing to their economic independence. This support aims to foster self-sufficiency and create sustainable livelihoods within the community. The project’s focus on practical financial assistance enables participants to transition from subsistence practices to more profitable ventures, showing its role in local economic development.
