Burundi is one of the poorest countries in the world. Rapid population growth, severe deforestation, soil erosion, and highly fragmented agriculture are threatening the country’s natural resources and food security. Around 56% of the population is chronically undernourished, and 75% are affected by food insecurity.

For over 40 years, Burundi and Baden-Württemberg have shared a close partnership. Supported by the State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg and in cooperation with local partners, the Rottenburg University of Applied Forest Sciences (HFR) and AgrarKontakte International (AKI) e.V. have launched various projects in Burundi that contribute to achieving SDG 2: “Zero Hunger.”

Enhancing Food Security through Permaculture and Energy Efficiency

Since July 2020, AKI has been active in Burundi with support from the Ministry of Food, Rural Areas, and Consumer Protection (MLR) of Baden-Württemberg. The project focuses on sustainable agriculture, particularly permaculture, food security, climate protection, reforestation, the bread value chain, and energy efficiency - with special emphasis on supporting marginalized women.

Improving Food Security through Agroforestry Systems

The multifunctional use of agricultural land through agroforestry systems can help combat erosion, increase agricultural productivity, and thereby strengthen food security. Since 2019, in cooperation with WeltPartner eG, coffee plots owned by smallholder families in Burundi have been diversified with shade trees and food crops. These efforts are supported by scientific monitoring from HFR and the Université du Burundi.