Burundi is advancing its administrative modernization through digital technologies, with the World Bank reviewing progress on the Digital Economy Foundations Support Project (PAFEN), officials said Friday.
The evaluation mission, conducted on March 26, assessed the US$92 million program launched in 2024 to modernize public systems and improve service delivery using digital tools. At mid-term, the project reached a 61 percent budget commitment rate, according to figures disclosed during the review.
“PAFEN is central to Burundi’s strategy to strengthen public finance management, enhance institutional efficiency, and expand access to administrative services,” a government official said.
The project aims to deploy digital solutions to improve revenue collection, monitor public spending, and increase transparency in budget execution. Officials said these reforms are aligned with broader macroeconomic consolidation objectives under Vision 2040–2060, Burundi’s long-term development plan.
Digital ID and citizen integration
A core component of PAFEN is the rollout of a national digital identity system, designed to streamline administrative procedures, improve access to public services, and facilitate the integration of rural populations into the formal economy.
Authorities said the digital ID system will also support improved citizen identification, data management, and service delivery, while enabling more efficient monitoring of social programs. The project includes plans for a national data center to house and secure government information.
“Modernizing public finance and administrative systems is crucial for reducing resource losses and enhancing transparency,” a World Bank representative said during the evaluation mission.
Assessment and challenges
The World Bank mission focused on identifying operational constraints that could slow project execution. Technical discussions highlighted the need to adapt certain mechanisms to accelerate digital infrastructure deployment and ensure project targets are met by 2028.
Government and World Bank officials evaluated achievements so far, including institutional reforms and the initial rollout of digital tools in public finance management. Stakeholders agreed on the importance of maintaining momentum, ensuring proper training for staff, and securing complementary technological infrastructure.
Broader reform agenda
PAFEN is part of a wider effort by Burundi to strengthen public sector governance and service delivery. By leveraging technology, authorities aim to improve accountability, increase efficiency, and integrate previously underserved populations into the formal economy.
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Experts said the program could serve as a model for other countries in the region seeking to modernize public administration using digital solutions.
“Digitalization of public finance is not just a technical reform—it is a step toward inclusive governance and economic modernization,” said a regional policy analyst.
The mid-term review is expected to inform adjustments to accelerate project implementation, address operational bottlenecks, and ensure that the program achieves its objectives within the remaining timeline.
Officials emphasized that continued support from the World Bank, effective coordination across government agencies, and investment in human capital will be critical to the success of PAFEN.
With the project now over halfway to completion, Burundi is demonstrating how digital tools can strengthen governance, improve transparency, and expand citizen access to public services, marking a significant step in the country’s long-term digital transformation agenda.
