The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Burkina Faso have officially launched the third phase of an incubator program designed to empower young entrepreneurs in the country’s rural areas. This initiative is part of the broader Support Project for Youth Employment and Skills Development in Rural Areas (PADEJ-MR).

The launch event in Ouagadougou was attended by Ms. Franceline Kaboré, representing Burkina Faso’s Minister of Sports, Youth, and Employment, and Ms. Mouna Diawara, the AfDB’s Head of Operations.

The PADEJ-MR aims to strengthen the economic independence and resilience of young people in rural communities by fostering entrepreneurship. With a total cost of €13.62 million, the project is primarily funded by a €12.25 million grant from the African Development Bank. It has established an incubator mechanism that offers practical training in financial literacy and safeguards, personalized coaching, and localized technical support.

This initiative helps young individuals transform their innovative ideas into sustainable businesses across vital sectors like agriculture, agri-food, services, crafts, and new technologies. The current third phase of the incubator program is providing support to 65 young people from four project regions, guiding them in developing business plans that qualify for financing.

Ms. Franceline Kaboré praised the African Development Bank’s dedication to the PADEJ-MR, highlighting that youth entrepreneurship is a national priority deeply embedded in the strategic vision of the Burkinabé government.

Ms. Mouna Diawara underscored the project’s significance, stating, “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. 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.”

Sévérine Lankouandé, speaking on behalf of the program’s beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to both the government and the African Development Bank for the valuable opportunities the incubator program has already provided. She noted that a group of young entrepreneurs has already completed training, preparing them to launch impactful businesses.