Burundi and India Explore Partnership on Digital Identity and E-Payments
The discussions underscore Burundi's growing interest in digital transformation as the country seeks to improve public service delivery, expand financial inclusion and leverage technology to support economic development.
Burundi and India are exploring deeper cooperation in digital transformation and economic development following discussions between senior officials from both countries.
On June 22, Isidora Ntakiyiruta, adviser to Burundi’s Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, held talks with Upender Singh Rawat, India’s representative to Burundi, to discuss areas of collaboration in digital government services and economic development.
During the meeting, the Indian representative outlined opportunities for India to share its expertise and experience in supporting the digital transformation of government services in Burundi. The discussions focused on how technology could be used to improve public administration and strengthen the implementation of economic development initiatives between the two countries.
India also expressed interest in expanding bilateral cooperation in digital technologies, particularly in the areas of digital identity systems and electronic payment solutions. The proposals draw on India’s experience in implementing large-scale digital public infrastructure and digital financial services.
Ntakiyiruta welcomed the proposals, noting that they align with Burundi’s ongoing efforts to modernize public services and accelerate the use of digital technologies within government institutions.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to reaffirm the longstanding relationship between Burundi and India and review existing areas of cooperation aimed at supporting development projects. Among the initiatives highlighted was the Kabu 16 hydroelectric power project, which reflects the broader partnership between the two countries.
The discussions underscore Burundi’s growing interest in digital transformation as the country seeks to improve public service delivery, expand financial inclusion and leverage technology to support economic development. Increased cooperation with India could provide additional expertise and experience as Burundi advances its digital government ambitions.
