AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK DRIVES RURAL REVIVAL THROUGH YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN BURKINA FASO

AfDB and Burkina Faso empower rural women and youth with entrepreneurial training and funding support to drive inclusive economic growth.

Burkina faso Youth Women Empowerment Economic transformation Entrepreneurial training Partnership.
AfDB partners with the Government of Burkina Faso, to launch the third phase of the youth incubator initiative
AfDB partners with the Government of Burkina Faso, to launch the third phase of the youth incubator initiative



In a strategic push to tackle rural unemployment and accelerate economic transformation, the African Development Bank (AfDB), in partnership with the Government of Burkina Faso, has launched the third phase of a groundbreaking youth incubator initiative under the Support Project for Youth Employment and Skills Development in Rural Areas (PADEJ-MR).

Unveiled on July 15, 2025, in Ouagadougou, the new phase marks a renewed commitment to equipping young Burkinabè in underserved regions with the tools to become job creators and agents of change. The €13.62 million project, largely backed by a €12.25 million AfDB grant, aims to strengthen rural resilience by converting entrepreneurial ideas into sustainable enterprises across vital sectors, including agriculture, agri-food, services, crafts, and technology.

Representing the Ministry of Sports, Youth, and Employment, Ms. Franceline Kaboré reaffirmed the government’s unwavering focus on youth-led development. Stating that Entrepreneurship among young people is not just a policy item, but a national priority enshrined in our development vision.

The incubator program, already operational in four regions, is currently supporting 65 young people in developing viable business plans that are eligible for financing. These youth entrepreneurs are benefiting from a robust ecosystem of support, including financial literacy training, personalized coaching, and on-the-ground technical assistance.

“The Project to Support Youth Employment and Skills Development in Rural Areas is a concrete and integrated response to the problem of youth unemployment in rural areas,” said Ms. Mouna Diawara, Head of Operations at AfDB. “The African Development Bank is ready to continue supporting Burkina Faso in its economic transformation efforts, with a particular focus on opportunities for young people and women.”

One of the program’s participants, Sévérine Lankouandé, spoke on behalf of the new cohort, expressing deep appreciation for the chance to turn ideas into impact. 

As Burkina Faso grapples with youth unemployment and regional disparities, the AfDB-backed PADEJ-MR continues to provide a lifeline channeling hope, innovation, and capital into the heart of rural communities.

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