Burundi flag

Burundi

Republic of Burundi

Capital

Gitega

Region

Africa

Population

12,332,788

Area (km²)

27,834

💡Quick Summary

Burundi, a landlocked nation in East Africa, spans 27,834 km² and is home to about 12.3 million people, making it one of the continent's most densely populated countries. Its capital, Gitega, serves as the political hub, while the economy remains one of the world's least developed, heavily reliant on agriculture like coffee and tea exports amid ongoing challenges from poverty and political instability. Despite its struggles, Burundi boasts stunning landscapes, including Lake Tanganyika, and a resilient culture rooted in drumming traditions and community spirit.

Key Insights

Low Urbanization Amidst Increasing Population Density

Only 23.553% of Burundi's population lives in urban areas, indicating a predominantly rural society. Despite its relatively small area and large population, the low urbanization suggests a reliance on agriculture and highlights potential challenges in providing infrastructure and services across dispersed rural communities.

Significant Gaps in Electricity Access

Only 11.60% of Burundi's population has access to electricity, indicating a severe energy poverty challenge. This limited access hinders economic development, education, and healthcare services, highlighting a critical area for infrastructure investment and policy intervention.

Improving Life Expectancy Despite Health Challenges

Burundi's life expectancy stands at 63.65 years, which, while still below global averages, represents an improvement in health outcomes. Coupled with an infant mortality rate of 31.500 per 1,000 live births, this suggests ongoing efforts in public health, though significant challenges remain, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Remarkably Low Unemployment Amidst Economic Challenges

Burundi reports an exceptionally low unemployment rate of 0.921%, which is strikingly low compared to global averages and often counterintuitive for a country with a very low GDP per capita. This could indicate a large informal sector, underemployment, or a subsistence-based economy where formal unemployment statistics don't fully capture the reality of labor market conditions.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$3.43B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$250.63

GDP Growth (%)

3.26%

Inflation (%)

26.94%

Unemployment (%)

0.92%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-2.00%0.00%2.00%4.00%6.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
201420152016201720182019202020212022202303,500,0007,000,00010,500,00014,000,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%25.0%50.0%75.0%100.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$80$160$240$320
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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