Background
Burundi, situated in East Africa’s Great Lakes region, faces acute climate change challenges that threaten its largely agriculture-dependent economy. The country’s tropical mountain climate is increasingly disrupted by extreme weather patterns, such as extended droughts followed by heavy rainfall. In Karusi province, where this technical assistance will be deployed, water insecurity is particularly pronounced. Over the past two decades, rainfall variability has increased by 10–15%, leading to longer dry periods during vital planting seasons and contributing to a 30% decline in crop yields, according to national agricultural data. These shifts in climate patterns have a severe impact on smallholder farmers, who make up the vast majority of the population.
The Karusi-based cooperatives, comprising over 720 families, are struggling with inadequate access to water for both domestic and agricultural needs. Traditional water management methods are no longer sufficient to handle the growing unpredictability of rainfall. National policy frameworks, such as Burundi’s Climate Change Strategy (2018–2025) and the National Adaptation Plan, as well as the updated Nationally Determined Contribution, emphasize the urgency of improving water resource management and adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices.
CTCN support
This technical assistance aims to tackle water insecurity, declining agricultural productivity, and growing community tensions at the Karusi cooperative center by introducing climate-resilient water management solutions. The support will focus on implementing efficient, climate-smart irrigation systems and water harvesting technologies to better manage irregular rainfall and ensure reliable access to water for both farming and household use.
Additionally, CTCN will build local capacity through training and the deployment of water monitoring tools and data-driven management systems. These measures will help cooperatives make informed decisions, reduce water waste, and promote fair resource distribution, mitigating conflict risks. By addressing key technological gaps, the TA enhances climate resilience and supports Burundi’s national adaptation goals and key SDGs related to water, food security, and climate action.
Expected Outcome
The technical assistance will enhance climate resilience at the Karusi cooperative center by implementing IoT-based rainwater harvesting and smart water distribution systems for both drinking and irrigation purposes. These technologies will enable more efficient and reliable water use, tailored to the region’s increasingly variable rainfall patterns.
As a result, 24 cooperatives - benefiting over 720 families - will experience improved access to water for domestic and agricultural needs. The introduction of smart irrigation will enhance agricultural productivity, while equitable and data-informed water distribution will reduce conflict and support stronger local governance in water resource management.
Seeking Experts
The CTCN invites qualified experts and firms to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) to participate in this initiative. For further information on this opportunity, visit the UN Global Market Place (UNGM) or the UN website.
If you are not yet a member of the CTCN Network, you can apply to join here.
