U-Invest, Burundi

Based in Bujumbura, the commercial capital of Burundi, U-invest was founded by Ezechiel Hatungimana, to bring wealth and tackle poverty in the second poorest country in the world.

The impact business is helping create an entire ecosystem of businesses both directly and indirectly. Activities include start up and next stage training using the TEN Mind Your Own Business material, together with coaching and mentoring. A high profile annual "Come and Meet Your Business Partner" event brings together investors and aspiring entrepreneurs, attracting banks, politicians and NGO staff nationally. An overview of the 2023 event can be viewed here.

U-invest also actively identifies business opportunities, creates business plans for them and provides an opportunity for local investors to co-invest by buying shares. Four businesses have been created to date: a fish farm; a driver training business to create provide jobs and reduce accidents; a health insurance business; and a renewable energy publication. 

A charitable arm called Yada, run jointly with Ezechiel's British wife Nicola, supports two mainly Batwa communities including basic business start up training.

Jerry Marshall visited in December 2023 to speak at the conference; train over 50 trainers and business consultants; and train 82 church leaders in Gitega (the political capital) on Bible based enterprise and business start up.

Ezechiel lives in Bujumbura with his wife and three young children. He is able to relate well with people at all levels, from Batwa children to government ministers. He is also a preacher, evangelist, and a man of passion with a big vision to transform Burundi.