The certificate award ceremony for the second group of entrepreneurs from the Orange Corners Burundi program took place at the Donatus Conference Center on this Friday, February 28, 2025. The event was attended by key officials, including Minister of Commerce, Transport, Industry and Tourism Ms. Marie Chantal Nijimbere; Mr. Ted Hunink, Deputy Head of Mission in the Embassy of the Netherlands; Ms. Laryssa Byll Cataria, Head of Cooperation at 3hi Africa; and Ms. Milou Derks, Head of the Orange Corners Program.
In her remarks, Ms. Larissa Byll Cataria highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship in Burundi’s economic development. She praised the dedication of young entrepreneurs and the government’s support for programs like Orange Corners, which provide them with the tools to grow their businesses. She also noted that the program aligns with Burundi’s Vision 2020-2030, focusing on industrialization and job creation. “By supporting young entrepreneurs today, we are building a stronger economy for the future,” she said.
Mr. Ted Hunink emphasized that Orange Corners is an initiative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, currently running in 20 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. He stressed that the program helps young Burundian entrepreneurs develop their businesses and increase their impact. “Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of the economy. Their growth is essential for Burundi’s private sector,” he stated. He reaffirmed the Netherlands’ commitment to supporting Burundi’s economic goals for 2040 and 2060.
Minister Marie Chantal Nijimbere congratulated the young entrepreneurs, recognizing their hard work and innovative ideas. “You have faced challenges, but you have also learned and improved. This is just the beginning of your journey,” she said. She also thanked the trainers and partners who contributed to the program’s success. The Minister reassured the government’s continued support for entrepreneurship, seeing it as a key driver of job creation and economic growth.
One of the graduates, Divine Rukanura, founder of FIDINA, a company producing feminine hygiene products, shared her experience in the program. She recalled the challenges she faced in the early weeks of training and how the mentors helped her stay focused. “Thanks to their guidance, we improved our product and strengthened our business. Today, FIDINA is a trusted brand,” she said. She also expressed her gratitude to the Embassy of the Netherlands for its support in empowering young entrepreneurs in Burundi.
The event concluded with the official certificate presentation to the entrepreneurs who successfully completed the four-month training program. The ceremony highlighted Orange Corners’ role in shaping the next generation of business leaders in Burundi.
