Burundi embarks on a mass COVID-19 testing drive

Burundi has embarked on a three-month nationwide COVID-19 screening campaign in Bujumbura, with over 1,000 people tested and 41 confirmed positive in the first week. The country's new president's declaration of COVID-19 as 'enemy number one' has led to widespread positive responses from the population, with ministers and organizations joining in the push for mask-wearing and testing. Despite this, questions remain regarding the transparency of the test results. International partners such as the European Union, World Bank, and UNDP have stepped in to support Burundi's efforts to combat the pandemic despite the country facing sanctions. While mass testing is mainly concentrated in Bujumbura due to capacity limitations, the government hopes to expand testing centers to other provinces. The government has focused on preventative measures such as hand-washing, mask-wearing, and social distancing, with no plans for lockdowns due to economic concerns. Amidst efforts to prioritize development, challenges such as governance, security, and corruption still need to be addressed. In terms of the economy, the government aims to rebuild confidence and trust through future measures. While the country's technology level remains low, international support may help Burundi move towards online businesses and education if needed.