Norway gives NOK 60 million in budget support to Burundi

The Norwegian funds are to support the ongoing efforts to stabilise the central African country following many years of civil war. 

“The past two years with an elected government are the longest period of democratic rule in the country’s history. The budget support will play an important part in securing continuing peaceful development in the country, and signals Norway’s desire to contribute to this development,” said Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim. 

Burundi’s peace remains fragile. During the past year, Norway has sought to assist in peacebuilding efforts in the country both through increased bilateral cooperation and through the UN Peacebuilding Commission, where Norway chairs the efforts on Burundi.  

The budget support is intended to strengthen a government apparatus weakened by many years of conflict, and to ensure that the poorest members of the population have access to public services. 

Norwegian support to Burundi will total approximately NOK 100 million in 2007. This amount includes not only budget support, but also humanitarian assistance, support for refugees returning from Tanzania, and support for demobilisation. Norway is also contributing through the UN Peacebuilding Fund.