Burundi: Corruption, a major obstacle to prosperity by 2040

In the frantic quest for development, Burundi is struggling to free itself from the chains of omnipresent corruption that is holding back its vision of prosperity by 2040. At the heart of this dynamic, one observation is clear: the desire for change is stifled by entrenched coastal practices that seem irreducible, even to the most audacious dreams.

Corruption: a deep-rooted poison

Corruption in Burundi is not just a buzzword for policy analysis. It is a real scourge that is eating away at every part of society. Whether in government, business or even public services, it infiltrates everywhere, making any development initiative difficult, if not illusory.

Reports regularly point to embezzlement as a common practice, where investments meant to boost the economy turn into a siphoning off of resources. Millions of dollars are swallowed up by already well-filled pockets, leaving citizens to struggle in poverty and despair. Yes, in Burundi, they prefer to feed the elite rather than build infrastructure that would benefit the people.

Broken promises and dashed hopes

In 2020, the Burundian government promised to initiate a series of reforms to reverse this trend. But, like a soufflé that falls, the hopes fueled by these announcements have ended up fading. The reality is implacable: reforms are often visible on paper, but on the ground, it is the status quo that prevails.

Burundians are entitled to wonder whether international summits and speeches full of promises are simply hiding a desire to mask the deep governance crisis that is raging. Instead of accelerating the implementation of a long-term vision, this context fosters distrust and undermines the motivation of change agents.

A hindered vision: the compromised future

With this omnipresence of corruption, Burundi's 2040 vision seems increasingly compromised. As the international community looks to this country with expectations of development, it becomes crucial to question the internal mechanisms that hinder progress towards a stable and prosperous economy.

To get out of this spiral, more than just speeches are needed. It is imperative that the country puts in place genuine and sustainable transparency mechanisms. Only sincere political will can destroy this wall of corruption which, like a lead weight, weighs heavily on hopes for a better future. As long as these measures are not taken, the promises of a radiant Burundi in 2040 will remain a fantasy, because a future without clear and ethical governance can never be built.