R&SD recently conducted the final independent evaluation of the Agricultural Productivity Support Project in Burundi (PAPAB) at the request of the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC).

This project, funded by the Netherlands, was implemented from 2015 to 2020 with the main objective of sustainably strengthening food security and the incomes of Burundian farming households.

The intervention was based on two main areas:

• Consolidating the fertilizer subsidy system (PNSEB);
• Developing farmers' productivity, resilience, and organization through the participatory approach of the Integrated Farmer Plan (PIP).

The evaluation conducted by R&SD combined documentary analysis, interviews, and field visits. It assessed the results achieved, the dynamics of change observed, and the areas for improvement.

Among the highlights:

• A tangible improvement in income and family well-being among beneficiary households;
• Increased adoption of sustainable agricultural practices;
• Strengthened farmer organization and savings initiatives.

R&SD also made strategic recommendations to capitalize on the achievements of PAPAB, particularly in relation to the future PADANE program.

Drinking water source built by PIP beneficiaries as part of the hillside vision (Nyabiraba hill) :

Inside the full storage warehouse in Murama, members of this cooperative would like to build a second warehouse in response to strong demand from farmers for storage of beans, corn, and rice :