BREAKING: 5 Internal Reasons Burundi is the Poorest Country in the World

Burundi, nestled in the heart of East Africa, grapples with the harsh reality of being labeled the poorest country in the world. Burundi’s GDP per capita stood at a mere $261.24 in 2021, according to the World Bank. In contrast, its neighbors, Rwanda and Tanzania, have demonstrated more robust economic growth....CONTINUE READING

Unlike these nations, Burundi has struggled to harness its natural resources, such as copper, cobalt, nickel, feldspar, phosphate rock, quartzite, rare reserves of uranium, vanadium, and fertile agricultural land, effectively due to a myriad of internal challenges.

The country’s struggles are not in isolation, as it shares the “poorest country” tag with others like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Malawi.

However, what sets Burundi apart is its failure to capitalize on its potential, a fact underscored by institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.

These organizations highlight a combination of political instability, corruption, and poor governance as key factors hindering Burundi’s economic development.

Burundi’s economic woes are further compounded when compared to other African countries with similar natural endowments.

For instance, countries like Ghana and Ivory Coast have leveraged their agricultural sectors for economic growth.

In contrast, Burundi remains ensnared in poverty, with over 90% of its population dependent on subsistence farming.

This stark contrast raises questions about the internal dynamics that have led to Burundi’s current state.
1. Political Instability and Conflict

One of the primary reasons for Burundi’s economic woes is its long history of political instability and conflict.

The civil war that ravaged the country from 1993 to 2005 left deep scars, disrupting economic activities and causing a significant loss of human capital.

The political unrest that followed the 2015 elections further exacerbated the situation, leading to sanctions and a reduction in foreign aid, which is crucial for the country’s budget.
2. Corruption and Poor Governance

Corruption is another significant issue that hampers Burundi’s economic development. Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Burundi as one of the most corrupt countries in the world.

This corruption permeates all levels of government, leading to inefficient use of resources, hindering foreign investment, and exacerbating poverty.
3. Overreliance on Subsistence Agriculture

Agriculture is the backbone of Burundi’s economy, employing over 90% of the population. However, the sector is highly vulnerable to climate change and lacks modernization.

The overreliance on subsistence farming, coupled with frequent droughts and floods, leads to food insecurity and limits the country’s economic growth.
4. Lack of Infrastructure

Burundi’s infrastructure is severely underdeveloped, with poor transportation networks and limited access to electricity and clean water.

This lack of infrastructure hinders trade, increases the cost of doing business, and discourages investment, further stifling economic growth.
5. Low Human Capital Development

The country’s human capital development is among the lowest in the world. Burundi has high rates of illiteracy, malnutrition, and child mortality.

The lack of education and healthcare investment results in a workforce that lacks the skills and health necessary for economic development.

Burundi’s status as the poorest country in the world is the result of a complex interplay of internal factors.

Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts from the government, international community, and civil society to foster stability, transparency, and sustainable development.

Only then can Burundi hope to break the cycle of poverty and move towards a brighter future.