FY 2024 Burundi Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | September 2024 Acknowledgements The Burundi Country Opinion Survey is part of the County Opinion Survey Program series of the World Bank Group. This report was prepared by the Business Intelligence (BI) team, led by José De Buerba (Senior External Affairs Officer) and Svetlana Markova (Senior External Affairs Officer). Yulia Danilina, Jessica Cameron, Nan Lin, and Sofya Gubaydullina oversaw the design, reporting, and analysis of the survey results. Noreen Wambui and Irina Popova provided data support. BI acknowledges the significant contribution from the Burundi country team and independent field agency, Institut de Développement Economique du Burundi (IDEC). In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Ange Dany Gakunzi (External Affairs Officer), Lydie Sankara (Operations Officer), and Nadia Nkwaya Beza (Senior Operations Assistant) who coordinated the survey-related activities from Bujumbura, Burundi. Contents Objectives Methodology Overview Overall Context Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Burundi World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Burundi Communication and Outreach Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology 3 Objectives This survey was designed to assist the World Bank Group (WBG) in gaining a better understanding of how stakeholders in Burundi perceive the WBG. The survey explored the following questions: 1. Overall Context: How familiar are they with the WBG? How much do they trust the WBG? 2. Key Indicators: What opinion do key stakeholders have of the WBG when it comes to its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with Burundi’s development priorities, and other key indicators? Are opinions improving or declining? 3. Development Priorities: What areas of development are perceived to be the most important? Have the priorities changed over the past three years? How effective is the WBG perceived to be in these areas? 4. Engagement on the Ground: How is the WBG perceived as a development partner in Burundi? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholder value the most when it comes to the WBG’s work in Burundi? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions to improve WBG effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics that the WBG communicates do stakeholders recall? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Government Institution 41% ▪ Fielded March – May 2024 ▪ 414 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly quantitative survey Civil Society Organization 13% ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online or received the questionnaire via courier and returned it accordingly Local Government 10% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the fielding agency ▪ Process managed on the ground by the fielding agency Other 10% ▪ 237 participants (57% response rate) Academia / Research Centers 6% ▪ 73% from Bujumbura ▪ 63% currently collaborate with the WBG Private Sector 6% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 4% ▪ 225 participants (56% response rate) ▪ Respondents completed the questionnaire online or received the questionnaire via a courier and returned it accordingly Media 4% ▪ 40% collaborated with the WBG Office of a Parliamentarian (National Assembly, Legislative 3% Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. body) What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=232) 5 6 Overall Context “The WGB must align itself with national priorities and above all take into account the specificities of the country in the choice and implementation of projects.” (Government Principal Respondent) “Support the country's strategic planning. Work on real social determinants. Act to reduce social inequalities. Empowerment at all levels (country autonomy, community autonomy).” (Local Government Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) Stakeholders Most Familiar with the WBG ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to indicate their familiarity with the work of several international World Bank Group 5.9 organizations in addition to the World Bank Group. Of these organizations, respondents in Burundi indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the work of the WBG, followed by the United Nations (UN). Respondents were least familiar with the United Nations 5.0 work of the African Union and the IMF in Burundi. ▪ Comparison of FY21 and FY24: Respondents’ familiarity with the WBG in this year’s survey was statistically similar to European Union 4.9 the one reported in FY21. Mean familiarity: FY24 = 5.9 African Development Bank 4.7 (AfDB) FY21 = 5.8 African Union 3.8 International Monetary Fund 3.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity 7 Q How familiar are you with the work of these organizations in Burundi? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar Familiarity with the WBG by Stakeholder Group ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who All Respondents* 5.9 indicated that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly higher levels of familiarity with the Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 7.0 institution’s work: Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 7.4 Government Institution 6.8 Do not collaborate = 3.5 Private Sector 6.1 ▪ Stakeholders: Respondents from bilateral/multilateral agencies and government institutions indicated the Civil Society Organization 5.0 highest levels of familiarity with the WBG, while respondents from the media reported significantly lower familiarity. Academia / Research Centers 4.9 Local Government 4.7 Media 4.0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Burundi? Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar Significantly different between stakeholder groups 8 *Significantly different between stakeholder groups The WBG Among the Top 5 National government* 7.6 8.2 Most Trusted Institutions Parliament / legislative branch 7.5 7.5 Respondents in Burundi gave the highest ratings of trust Local government for the national government, parliament/legislative 7.3 branch, local government, the WBG, and the central World Bank Group 7.3 bank. Trust ratings for the national government, media, UN, 7.3 Burundi’s Central Bank the private sector, and civil society were significantly higher in 7.8 FY24 compared to the FY21 survey. At the same time, civil 7.3 Academia / research centers society, youth organizations, and the IMF were among the least trusted institutions among those studied. 7.1 Regional development banks 7.5 FY24 7.0 Media* 5.9 FY21 6.9 United Nations* 6.2 6.8 Private sector * 5.8 6.6 Bilateral organizations 6.6 6.6 Civil society* 5.9 6.5 Youth organizations 6.3 6.3 International Monetary Fund 6.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 How much do you trust each of the following institutions to do what is right for Burundi? Mean Rating of Trust Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significantly different between years 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “Align actions with the Burundi 2040 and Burundi 2060 vision and other sectoral policies - collaborate with the government and other partners to conduct studies on priority actions to be taken that are adapted to the country's context and needs.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) WBG’s Effectiveness and its Alignment with Development Priorities Significantly Improved In FY24, respondents gave significantly higher ratings for 7.5 the WBG’s effectiveness in helping Burundi achieve Relevant role in development 7.9 development results and aligning with the country’s development priorities. Ratings of the Bank’s relevance and influence remained consistently high. 7.5 Effectiveness in helping Burundi achieve results*^ 7.0 Positive influence on shaping 7.4 development policy FY24 7.3 FY21 The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Burundi. 7.4 Q Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Aligned with development How effective is the WBG in helping Burundi achieve development results? priorities* Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 6.8 The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Burundi. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Burundi. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 6.7 The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Burundi. Helps end poverty in Burundi Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significantly different between years ^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY21: "Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectiveness in Burundi. Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; To what extent does the WBG’s 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 work help to achieve development results in Burundi? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree Mean Rating 11 7.9 The Private Sector and 7.4 7.9 Relevant role in development 7.1 Government Institutions 6.0 7.0 7.8 Respondents Have More 7.4 7.8 Positive Views of the WBG Effectiveness in helping Burundi achieve results 7.0 7.6 8.0 6.5 6.6 Government Comparisons of ratings across stakeholder groups Institution 7.7 indicate that respondents from the private sector and 6.6 Local Government government institutions generally gave the WBG higher 7.6 Trust in the WBG 7.0 scores on several key performance indicators. However, 8.5 Bilateral / these differences between stakeholder groups were not 6.0 6.3 Multilateral Agency statistically significant. 7.6 Civil Society 7.0 Organization Aligned with development 7.0 7.0 Private Sector priorities 8.1 7.0 6.5 Academia 7.6 7.2 7.7 Media Positive influence on shaping 7.1 development policy 8.0 7.4 6.2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Q For question wording and scales, please see the previous slide. 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 8.7 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Trust the WBG to do what 7.1 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of 8- is right for Burundi* 5.5 10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 8.6 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Relevant role in development* 7.2 WBG, the more positive their perceptions of it and its work are. 6.5 8.4 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Effectiveness in helping Burundi 6.9 to increase positive perceptions. achieve results^* 6.8 8.4 Aligned with development priorities* 6.9 6.3 8.2 Positive influence on shaping 6.9 development policy* 6.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Burundi? High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Burundi? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much *Significantly different between Q The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Burundi. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree levels of familiarity How effective is the WBG in helping Burundi achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Burundi. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Burundi. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree 13 Burundi’s Key Performance Indicators are Higher Compared to FY24 Eastern and Southern Africa and IDA Countries 7.5 Relevant role in development 6.9 7.1 7.5 Burundi FY24 Effectiveness in helping Burundi 6.9 achieve results^ 7.0 7.4 Other Eastern Positive influence on shaping and Southern 6.8 development policy Africa FY24 6.9 Other IDA 7.4 FY24 Aligned with development 6.6 priorities 6.8 7.3 Trust the WBG to do what 6.8 is right 7.0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Other FY24 Eastern and Southern Africa countries: Comoros, Namibia, Lesotho, Seychelles, Somalia, South Sudan, Zambia, Q Other FY24 IDA countries: Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Chad, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Lao PDR, Lesotho, Maldives, Mauritania, Senegal, Solomon Islands, 14 Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Togo, and Zambia. Stakeholder Trends across Performance Indicators Respondents from the private sector had the highest mean All Respondents 7.1 rating across the aggregated responses to the nineteen COS indicator questions, whereas respondents from academia had the lowest ratings; however, this difference Private Sector 7.7 did not reach statistical significance. ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who Government Institution 7.3 indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across the aggregated indicator questions compared to respondents who do not Bilateral / Multilateral Agency 7.1 collaborate with the WBG: Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.5 Civil Society Organization 6.9 Do not collaborate = 6.5 Local Government 6.8 Media 6.7 Academia 6.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Aggregated Indicator Questions Q All Indicator Questions asked on a Scale from 1 to 10. Click here for details of these Indicator Questions. 15 16 World Bank’s Support for Development Areas “Support the Government of Burundi in: Development of social and economic infrastructures promoting sustainable development: roads, drinking water and electricity. Development of value chains and industrialization- Raising the value of local produce.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Strengthen the Government's capacity in the mining sector. Support the Government in the development of transport and energy infrastructure.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) Development Areas Agriculture / food security 63% for WBG Focus High for government Energy 55% institutions (68%) Debt management 53% As in FY21, agriculture / food security, energy, and education Macroeconomic stability 49% were the top areas where stakeholders would like the WBG to focus its resources in FY24. Debt management emerged among Education 47% the top priorities in Burundi (only 1% of respondents selected this Health / pandemic preparedness 25% option in FY21). Private sector development 22% Notably, only 4% of respondents in this year’s survey selected public sector governance/reform among priorities for the WBG Tourism development 22% (16% in FY21). Environment / natural resource management 18% Digital infrastructure development 17% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Climate change 17% could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? Jobs 15% High for private “Strengthen its involvement in the following sectors: Education sector (42%) and research, Health, Agriculture, livestock and food security.” Youth development 15% (Parliamentarian Respondent) Urban development 15% “It is also necessary for the WBG to support Burundi's financing Water / sanitation 13% in the energy, digital, agriculture, tourism and industry sectors. For the WBG to increase its effectiveness in Burundi, it is Gender equity 9% desirable to support Burundi in the extraction of the country's Transport infrastructure 7% various minerals, so that Burundi can extract its minerals and manufacture the by-products.” Social protection 6% (Local Government Respondent) Trade 4% Public sector governance 4% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in Burundi? 17 Q (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=208) Effectiveness of WBG’s Support for Sectoral Areas The WBG’s work in health received the highest effectiveness ratings. Of note, Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth respondents in this year’s survey rated the WBG’s work in regional integration and energy significantly lower than in FY21. Public sector governance 6.4 6.4 6.1 Human Development Private sector development 6.1 7.1 6.1 Health Job creation / employment 6.3 7.4 6.1 FY24 6.7 Regional integration* Social protection 6.1 6.7 FY21 5.9 6.6 FY24 Macroeconomic stability Social inclusion FY21 5.8 Debt sustainability 6.3 Gender equity 6.7 5.6 Trade 5.7 6.2 Education 6.8 Infrastructure Environmental Sustainability Transport 6.2 6.8 6.7 6.1 Agriculture and food security 7.1 Energy / extractives* 6.9 Digital development^ 5.9 Environment / natural resource 6.2 6.4 FY24 management FY21 Water supply and sanitation infrastructure 5.9 FY24 6.5 5.7 FY21 Climate change 6.0 5.4 Urban development 5.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness *Significantly different between years 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Effectiveness Q How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in Burundi? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”) 18 ^ Compared to the “Information and communications technology” option in FY21 19 World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Burundi “Directly involve our own expertise in the realization of major projects (infrastructure; health, electricity, and water supply). Collaborate directly with local and international NGOs on projects.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Collaboration and assistance with all bodies/partners involved in national development, through training (capacity building) and material support (budget).” (Local Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) Improved Perceptions of the WBG as a Long-Term Partner In FY24, respondents gave significantly higher ratings for the WBG being a responsive, accessible, and flexible long- Being a long-term partner to 8.3 term partner in Burundi. Perceptions of the institution’s openness have also improved. Burundi* 7.2 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Openness (sharing data and 7.0 could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? other information) 6.6 “Decentralize technological and financial support to local governmental structures- Organize sessions to present the objectives of the WBG.” (Local Government Respondent) Responsiveness to needs in 6.8 Burundi* FY24 “It is necessary to review the procedures for disbursing funds 5.8 FY21 (the current procedures are too long, which risks causing the fund to be canceled)- It is necessary to collaborate more with the private sector and civil society. Increase research on the Access to WBG staff and 6.8 country’s geo-economic situation in order to respond to the real experts* needs of the population.” 5.9 (Government Institution Respondent) “A partnership that is not contingent (contextual). Designing a Flexibility when circumstances 6.6 partnership according to Burundi's context.” change in Burundi*^ (Civil Society Respondent) 5.3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of the following? Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility 20 and flexibility to changes in country context asked in FY21. *Significantly different between years The WBG Increasingly Seen as Effectively Collaborating with Stakeholders National government* 8.0 7.4 In FY24, perceptions of the effectiveness of the WBG’s collaboration with the national government and civil Other donors and 7.8 society have significantly improved. Ratings for its development partners 7.5 collaboration with other donors and development partners stayed consistently high. Civil society (e.g., NGOs, 7.0 CBOs)* 6.2 Parliament / legislative 6.7 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the branch WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in FY24 Burundi? 6.7 Private sector FY21 “Involve all stakeholders: government, civil society, private 6.3 sector, media. Strengthen the local entrepreneur/community- Involve the media in disseminating data produced by the 6.7 WBG.” (Civil Society Respondent) Local government “Consult the various institutions and national parastatals and local NGOs that are often overlooked in political 6.3 Youth organizations plans.” (Government Principal Respondent) 6.2 Academia / research centers 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Burundi, in terms of collaborating with the following Q groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significantly different between years 21 Stakeholders want the Bank to Collaborate More with Local Government and the Private Sector Respondents in this year’s survey indicated that the Local government 43% WBG should collaborate more with local governments and the private sector in addition to its partnership with the national government. Notably, Private sector 41% ratings for the effectiveness of the Bank’s collaboration with these two groups were moderate compared to other stakeholder groups. Academia / research 29% centers In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its Youth organizations 24% effectiveness in Burundi? “WBG works with high-level institutions- At the intermediary level, they should be able to benefit from Civil society 21% direct support, which could contribute to the visibility of their actions.” ( Local Government Respondent) Other donors and 15% development partners “That PIUs remain coordinated by the Ministry, thus ensuring effective integration.” (Government Institutions Respondent) Parliament / legislative 7% branch Other 6% In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following Q should the WBG collaborate with more to have greater impact in Burundi? (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=204) 22 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “Financing growth-generating sectors. Capacity building for government executives. Financing projects to empower women and human capital.” (Government Principal Respondent) “Support for state investment. Finance the education, health, agriculture, and livestock sectors. Financing platform for the country's major development projects, such as the road, railway, energy, drinking water supply and food sectors.” (Government Institutions Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) Technical Assistance Considered the Bank’s Technical assistance and 53% implementation support Greatest Value Financial resources 47% Of more value to local In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG government could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? Mobilizing third-party financial respondents 31% (70%) resources “Accompany projects to improve the absorption of financing (disbursement). Invest in infrastructure. Strengthen local experience.” Capacity development and training 30% (Government Principal Respondent) “Financing civil society NGOs and religious denominations- Financing emerging sectors through capacity building for good governance.” Convening / bringing together 9% different groups of stakeholders (Civil Society Respondent) “The technical and financial support of the World Bank in the electricity sector for projects to reinforce and rehabilitate the Of more value to Knowledge and analytical products 7% bilateral/multilateral power transmission networks, as well as the distribution of respondents(38%) energy, is an important factor. As water is life, the WB's support for projects in the drinking water sector is particularly important, as the WB does not intervene in this area.- Performance Development partner coordination 7% enhancement for managers of public institutions in the field of project management.” (Government Institution Respondent) Other 3% Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in Burundi? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=198) 24 WBG Seen as Effectively Monitoring/Evaluating Projects and Insisting on Accountability Regarding the WBG’s financial instruments, respondents had the The WBG effectively monitors 8.0 highest levels of agreement that the WBG effectively monitors and evaluates the projects it supports in Burundi 7.8 and evaluates its projects and that the WBG insists on accountability through its lending. The levels of agreement that the WBG’s Environmental and Social Framework The WBG insists on 7.9 requirements are reasonable and that the WBG provides accountability through its lending 7.5 financial support in a timely manner have significantly improved since FY21. The WBG’s Environmental and 7.7 ▪ Of note, respondents from government institutions and Social Framework requirements bilateral/multilateral agencies showed significantly higher are reasonable* 7.0 levels of agreement regarding the competitiveness of the FY24 WBG’s financing than respondents from other stakeholder The WBG’s financial 7.1 FY21 groups (means = 7.4 and 7.5, respectively). instruments meet the needs of Burundi 6.8 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? The conditions of the WBG’s 6.8 financing are competitive “Encourage and train local companies so that the private sector compared to markets (national companies) can take over once projects are closed, while ensuring a real transfer of skills. Finance and support projects to achieve results of direct benefit to the beneficiary population: e.g. The WBG provides financial 6.5 construction of agricultural irrigation dams, road building, railroad support in a timely manner*^ 5.0 construction, bridge building, construction of hospitals and schools, etc.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Government Institution Respondent) Mean Rating To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q ^Compared to "The World Bank Group disburses funds promptly" in FY21 *Significantly different between years 25 59% of Respondents Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work; Perceptions of its Contribution to Development Results are more Positive Significance of contribution to development 7.6 Respondents had the highest levels of agreement results in Burundi* 6.6 that the WBG’s knowledge work made a significant contribution to development results in Burundi. However, fewer respondents indicated familiarity with The WBG brings global expertise to Burundi 7.6 accessing WBG’s knowledge products. Their ratings as part of its knowledge work^ 7.3 of quality of the WBG’s knowledge work and it being tailored to the country’s context were also relatively Working with the WBG increases Burundi’s 7.4 moderate. institutional capacity 7.0 FY24 In your opinion, what is the most important thing The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 6.9 FY21 the WBG could do to help increase Burundi’s context^^ 7.1 its effectiveness in Burundi? “Organize information meetings on activities in progress in 6.8 I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s all provinces (Governors).Organize visits to exchange knowledge work in Burundi experiences with other countries that are already ahead in development. Organize capacity-building workshops in different areas for administrations and When I need to consult the WBG’s 5.9 governments.” (Local Government Respondent) knowledge work, I know how to find it 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Mean Rating How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG’s knowledge work make to development results in Burundi? Q Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to "Are source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21. 26 ^^Compared to "Are adaptable to Burundi’s specific development challenges and country circumstances" in FY21 *Significantly different between years 27 The Future Role of the World Bank in Burundi “1. The most important thing is to closely monitor the implementation of these projects because we expect a lot from projects with big budgets, but the resulting yield is not proportional. 2. See if its policy is consistent with the Country, because as it intervenes in several countries, the conditions of these countries are not the same, hence an adaptation is necessary according to the case. 3. It could put forward merit and not favoritism in the choice of those who participate in knowledge- sharing workshops. 4. Help change mentalities because it is the basis of development.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Strengthen local capacity, engage various stakeholders, and better align with Burundi’s needs. • Human capital • Agriculture • Work with traditional media to Focus Area • Private sector development Communication increase its publicity • Infrastructure 4% • Increase the awareness of WBG’s Communication 30%* • Social and environmental protection work Results • Anti-corruption Focus Area • Enhance government capacity • Robust M&E, effectively monitor the Engagement Knowledge • Provide more training and technical support Results WBG’s ongoing projects 16% • Support research and 10% • Address its governance and transparency • Improve impact through longer-term Financial Support • Better alignment with country needs projects Operational • Adapt to Burundi’s context Knowledge Effectiveness • Simplify processes, reduce response Operational Effectiveness 14% time • Effectively collaborate with the Engagement government for better alignment 13% of the country’s development • Reduce conditions priorities Financial Support • Increase budgetary support • Diversify partnerships in civil society and the private sector 13% • Continue current financial capacity while improving its impact In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) Q *All percentages are counted based on the total number of topics mentioned by the respondents; individual comments could be counted multiple times depending on the number of topics they cover. 28 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Engage with more non-government stakeholders, build capacity, and better align with Burundi’s needs, context, and capacity. Focus Area Financial Support “There is a need to relax requirements, tailor activities to the Burundian context, and invest “Continue to support the sustainability of achievements once a project has been completed. in key sectors for Burundi's development.” (Government Institution Respondent) Accelerate the process of increasing the value of projects or agreements. Strengthen the capacities and compensation of national, public or private managers.” “Support the country's strategic planning. Work on real social determinants. Act to reduce social inequalities. Empowerment at all levels (country autonomy, community autonomy).” (Government Institution Respondent) (Local Government Respondent) “Increase funding. Reducing conditionalities.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Digitalization across the public and private sector” (Government Principal Respondent) “Financing of development through its donation/subsidy fund entrusted to people who are “Road construction, [get] involved in education, especially training for the unemployed. both competent and honest.” (Academia Respondent) Contributing to access to drinking water for all.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Increased projects in the agricultural sector” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “Accompany projects to improve the absorption of financing (disbursement). Invest in infrastructure). Strengthen local experience.” (Government Principal Respondent) “Invest in agriculture to guarantee food security. Road infrastructure. Capacity building.” (Civil Society Respondent) Knowledge “Intervening in other, as yet untouched, areas- creation of youth centers and capacity building (improving and prioritizing youth in capacity building). Regular exchanges with partners and beneficiaries” (Government Institution Respondent) “The WBG could also provide technical support, from the inception of selected projects through to their completion” (Government Institution Respondent “Strengthen the capacities of Burundian staff, especially in the state sector. Put Burundi on the path to digitalization. ” (Private Sector Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) 29 How can the Bank increase its effectiveness? Open-Ended Responses Engage with more non-government stakeholders, build capacity, and better align with Burundi’s needs, context, and capacity. Operation Effectiveness Communication “Reduce response time to requests for Non-objection of projects.” “Work with and support the traditional media that inform and educate the public, while certifying the news.” (Media Respondent) (Government Institution Respondent) “Review the management system, especially the no-objection deadlines.” “The majority of the population trusts the media. (they're waiting to hear it on the radio).- (Government Principal Respondent) The government should set up a system for informing the population or the authorities so that the latter can prepare public projects according to the opinions of those concerned. “Reduce the time required to issue no-objection notices- streamline procurement (Media Respondent) procedures - reduce the time required to issue no-objection notices.” (Government Institution Respondent) “The WBG must focus on the vision of Burundi emerging in 2040 and developed in 2060; It Engagement must lighten the procedures for releasing funds. It must harmonize the salaries of its employees so that they all have the same intellectual capacity.” “Decentralize its activities down to the lowest community level, passing on wealth-creation and employment know-how to young people. Work on the real needs of the country, not (Government Institution Respondent) the imposition of projects to be done.” (Private Sector Respondent) Results “Projects lasting 4 to 5 years don't have enough impact. Consider financing programs (longer than 5 years) to ensure the sustainability of achievements.- Increase funding/investment in the country, taking into account the current socio-economic situation. In other words, broaden the areas that WBG supports. But in any case, remain vigilant in monitoring program implementation.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Invent a mechanism for effective monitoring of projects and evaluation of their performance and that of project execution units.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Set up a mechanism to monitor the adaptation of strategies and regulatory frameworks.” (Government Institution Respondent) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Q could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) 30 31 Communication and Outreach “To widely promote its activities in Burundi, because the majority of the Burundian population is not aware of the activities of the WBG, including the media.” (Media Respondent) “The WBG should organize visibility sessions or show its existence and its role here in Burundi among the various stakeholders (organize acknowledgments sessions).” (Government Institutions Respondent) “Publicize its actions.” (Civil Society Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to help increase its effectiveness in Burundi? (N=304) Events are the Most Preferred Method for Receiving WBG Communication Respondents most preferred to receive Bank communications through events/conferences/seminars/workshops (in person or online), followed by direct contact and e-newsletters. Media respondents preferred e-Newsletter significantly more than other groups. Preferred WBG Source Bilateral / Academia / All Government Local Multilateral Private Research Respondents Institution Government Agency Civil Society Sector Center Media Event / conference / seminar / 71.3% 70.7% 73.3% 55.6% 78.1% 83.3% 83.3% 57.1% workshop (in person or online) Direct contact with staff (e.g., in 46.8% 53.3% 46.7% 55.6% 50.0% 8.3% 50.0% 28.6% person, virtually, phone, email) e-Newsletters* 35.6% 33.7% 13.3% 55.6% 34.4% 58.3% 33.3% 71.4% Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp) 18.5% 20.7% 30.0% 11.1% 9.4% 25.0% 25.0% 0.0% Social media (e.g., Facebook, 12.5% 9.8% 10.0% 11.1% 18.8% 8.3% 0.0% 28.6% Twitter) Other* 0.9% 1.1% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 14.3% How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=216) *Significantly different between stakeholder groups 32 7 in 10 Recalled Seeing or Hearing Information About the WBG Recently, Most Often Through Television or Events 70% of respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG recently. Respondents most often reported seeing/hearing about the WBG through television and events/conferences/seminars (in person or online). Television (TV) 56% High for Academia Event / conference / seminar (in (100%); low for 50% bilateral/multilater person or online) al respondents (14%) Radio 44% No Direct contact with WBG staff 40% High for 30% government institutions Social media 37% respondents (52%) Do you recall seeing or hearing WBG websites 33% anything about the WBG Newspapers (print or online) 25% recently? Yes e-Newsletters 16% 70% Direct messaging 13% Blogs 6% Podcasts 4% Other 3% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=230) Q Where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=162) 33 WBG’s Work on Climate Change was the Most Commonly Recalled Topic Climate change 52% Respondents most frequently recalled WBG work or research on climate change, followed by women Women empowerment 47% empowerment and food security. Food security 46% ▪ Respondents from bilateral / multilateral were significantly more likely to recall WBG economic Ending poverty in developing 41% countries forecasts and human capital (57%) than respondents from other stakeholder groups. Job creation / employment 38% Youth development 30% Human capital 29% Digital economy 25% Pandemic preparedness 24% WBG economic forecasts 18% Other 13% Portfolio mid-term evaluation 9% If you answered “Yes” for E2, what topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? 34 Q (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=162) Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns: Decreased Crop Yields, Food Security, Floods, and Forest Degradation The majority of the respondents were very concerned about decreased crop yields and increased food insecurity as potential impacts of climate change in Burundi. Respondents were also very concerned about more frequent and severe floods and land and forest degradation. These key areas of concern should be considered to make communications about climate change more impactful. Very concerned Somewhat concerned A little concerned Not concerned at all Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 79% More frequent and severe floods 76% Land and forest degradation 73% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 62% Increased erosion of shoreline 55% Loss of jobs 54% Decreased water availability / quality 54% Extinction of plant / animal species 39% More frequent and severe droughts 38% Climate-driven migration 36% Air pollution 35% More frequent and intense wildfires 33% More frequent and severe heatwaves 30% Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Burundi? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~212) 35 Message Recall Increases Familiarity and Leads to More Positive Perceptions of the WBG and its Work 6.8 Familiarity with the WBG* 3.6 7.9 Trust the WBG to do what is right for Burundi* 5.6 Do you recall seeing or hearing anything 7.8 about the WBG Relevant role in development* recently? 6.8 7.6 Yes Effective in helping Burundi achieve development results 7.1 No 7.6 Aligned with development priorities* 6.5 7.6 Positive influence on shaping development policy* 6.8 6.9 The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Burundi* 6.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating These findings suggest that respondents who are more frequently exposed to information about the WBG or who actively engage with WBG staff and knowledge work (read research papers, etc.) are also more likely to hold more positive views about the WBG’s work. How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Burundi? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Extremely familiar How much do you trust the WBG to do what is right for Burundi? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much Q Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree: The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Burundi. The WBG’s wor k is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Burundi. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Burundi. How 36 effective is the WBG in helping Burundi achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 37 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics What is the primary specialization Do you of your work? (N=221) collaborate/work Education 15% with the World Bank Group (WBG) No 37% Agriculture and food security 11% in Burundi? (N=224) Health / pandemic preparedness 10% Yes Public sector governance Respondents from bilateral/multilateral 10% were significantly more likely to indicate 63% Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt that they collaborate with the WBG 9% management (90%) whereas respondents from media Generalist (specialize in multiple were significantly less likely to collaborate 9% with the WBG sectors) (20%, respectively). Other 8% Private sector development / trade 7% ICSID, 1% Energy 4% MIGA 1% Gender equity 4% Which of the IFC Digital development 3% following WBG 17% Environment / natural resource 3% agencies do you management collaborate/work Social protection 2% with in Burundi? Transport 2% (N=136) Percentages equal more than 100% Climate change 1% because respondents could choose World Bank multiple agencies within the WBG. Urban development 0% (IDA) 95% Legal / human rights 0% 38 Sample Demographics (continued) What’s your age? (N=228) Prefer not to specify, 2% 25 or younger 0% Female 26-35 6% 23% 36-45 34% What is your gender? 46-55 40% (N=228) 56 and above 18% Male 75% Prefer not to specify 2% Bujumbura 73% Which best represents your geographic location? Other 20% (N=228) Gitega 7% 39 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 Government Principals: Office of the From March to May 2024, a total of 414 stakeholders in Burundi were invited to provide President, Prime Minister, Minister, 7% 5% Parliamentarian their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey (COS). A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the fielding agency. Government Institutions: Employee of a Ministry, Department, Project Implementation Participants were drawn from the office of the President, Prime Minister, office of minister, Unit, Independent Government Institution, 37% 42% parliament, government institutions, local governments, bilateral or multilateral agencies, the Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise private sector, civil society, academia, and the media. Local Government 8% 14% Of these stakeholders, 237 participated in the survey (57% response rate). Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, Respondents completed the questionnaire via an online platform or received the Development Organization, Development 5% 4% questionnaire via courier and returned it accordingly. Bank, UN Agency The results of this year’s survey were compared to the FY21 Survey, which had a Civil Society Organization: Local and regional NGOs, Community-Based response rate of 56% (N=225). Organization, Private Foundation, 13% 16% Professional/Trade Association, Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time, as Faith-Based Group, Youth Group well as changes in respondent samples, methodology, and the survey instrument itself. To reduce the influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar response Private Sector: Private Company, Financial 9% 6% Sector Organization, Private Bank scales/options were analyzed. Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted Academia / Research Center 7% 6% throughout the report. Media 7% 4% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Burundi COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Other 8% 3% Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. Total Number of Respondents 210 232 Q What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) 40 Indicator Questions Every country that engages in the Country Opinion Survey (COS) must include specific indicator questions, several of which are aggregated for the World Bank Group’s annual Corporate Scorecard and are highlighted in red below. A1_5. How much do you trust the World Bank Group to do what is right for Burundi? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping Burundi achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective A3. How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG's knowledge work make to development results in Burundi? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree A4. The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Burundi. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Burundi. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Burundi. A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Burundi To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of each of the following? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C1_1. Responsiveness to needs in Burundi C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in Burundi C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Burundi To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Burundi, in terms of collaborating with the following groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C2_1. National government C2_4. Private sector C2_5. Civil society C2_6. Other development partners To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C4_1. The WBG’s financial instruments (i.e., loans, credits, grants, trust funds) meet the needs of Burundi. C4_3. The WBG provides financial support in a timely manner. C6_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in Burundi. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Burundi’s context. 41 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org