As part of the Kaze Twiyunge project—an integrated response to promote the protection and resilience of returnees in Burundi—JRS, together with its consortium partners (IRC, AVSI, Terre des Hommes, AFRABU, ICCA, and WeWorld-GVC), is supporting vulnerable households to rebuild their livelihoods with funding from the European Union.

During a recent monitoring visit to Kinyinya, in Burundi, the team met Niyibizi Soline, whose remarkable entrepreneurial journey demonstrates how targeted livelihood support, combined with determination and sound financial management, can lead to lasting economic independence.

After receiving a 750,000 Fbu start-up grant from JRS, Soline successfully expanded her business selling onions, cabbages, palm oil, and potatoes. Through careful management of her business, she saw her company’s capital grow to 2,000,000 Fbu. She acknowledges facing occasional challenges but says they have remained manageable and have not prevented her business from growing.

Building a Business Around Essential Goods

At the Kinyinya market, Soline focuses on products that meet everyday household needs, including onions, cabbages, palm oil, and potatoes. She carefully adjusts her stock according to customer demand, an approach that has contributed significantly to the stability and growth of her business.

From Initial Support to Financial Independence

The profits generated from her business have enabled Soline to make two important long-term investments:

• A cultivable land, purchased for 950,000 Fbu;
• A market kiosk valued at 2,000,000 Fbu, which she is purchasing through instalment payments. To date, she has already paid three-quarters of its value.

These investments mark an important milestone in her entrepreneurial journey. What began as a small informal business has grown into a more stable enterprise with a permanent place of business and productive assets that will continue generating income for years to come.

Niyibizi Soline’s story is a powerful example of how targeted livelihood support, coupled with resilience, determination, and responsible financial management, can empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve sustainable economic independence.