Burundi Extends SOLEIL–Nyakiriza Solar Programme with Additional Donor Support

Burundi has secured additional support to extend the SOLEIL–Nyakiriza solar electrification programme, reinforcing efforts to expand access to electricity in a market where national access rates remain below 30%. The programme, launched in 2020 by the government with backing from the World Bank Group, focuses on decentralised solar deployment across public institutions and rural households. It targets schools, health centres and low-income communities through off-grid solutions.

The latest extension introduces a further two-year implementation period, supported by financing and technical assistance from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit and the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program. While the funding amount has not been disclosed, the additional support is aimed at strengthening system sustainability and scaling deployment.

Under the expanded programme, a remote monitoring system will be implemented across up to 700 public facilities, improving operational performance and asset management. The extension also supports the rollout of approximately 12,000 solar home systems, further expanding off-grid access in rural areas.

The programme is structured around a decentralised delivery model, combining public sector coordination with private sector participation in deployment and service provision. This approach reflects a broader shift toward distributed energy solutions in frontier markets, where grid expansion remains constrained.

Burundi’s national electrification strategy targets a significant increase in access rates by 2030, with a strong emphasis on off-grid solutions. Within this context, the extension of SOLEIL–Nyakiriza highlights the role of donor-supported, solar-led programmes in accelerating rural electrification and supporting social infrastructure in underserved regions.