Unpacking land expropriation of the Jiji-Mulembwe Hydroelectric Power Project in Burundi - An analysis of its impacts on livelihoods

Located in Burundi, the Jiji-Mulembwe Hydroelectric Power Project signifies a substantial initiative to cater to the nation's growing energy demands. However, this ambitious project has entailed expropriating land, which poses significant consequences that sabotage the sustenance of the communities inhabiting the region designated for the project. The issue of land expropriation to implement mega infrastructure projects has generated widespread discussion globally. Although such projects might offer massive economic growth, enhanced energy accessibility, and improved infrastructure, they often adversely impact local communities that depend on the land for their sustenance and cultural identity. Thus, it is necessary to comprehensively assess the consequences of land expropriation for the Jiji-Mulembwe Hydroelectric Power Project on the livelihood strategies, economic activities, social networks, and cultural practices of the communities. The considerable adverse consequences among the indigenous populations emphasise the pressing necessity for implementing comprehensive mitigation strategies and inclusive development approaches to tackle the underlying effects effectively and ensure the people affected by the Jiji-Mulembwe Hydroelectric Power Project receive just compensation. The Jiji-Mulembwe Hydroelectric Power Project in Burundi requires substantial land expropriation to establish mega infrastructure. Tura (2018) alleged that a comprehensive understanding of the precise effects of land expropriation on livelihoods is of tremendous significance in fostering equitable and balanced development and addressing potential adverse outcomes (p.248). The Jiji-Mulembwe Hydroelectric Power Project entails a strategic decision to effectively meet the increasing electricity requirements of Burundi and facilitate economic advancement. However, the implementation and functioning of this project require land procurement. This process may trigger problems in the lives and economic activities of the communities residing in the affected regions. In the context of this research, the key research question addressed in this study is: "What are the distinctive effects of the land expropriation procedure related to the Jiji-Mulembwe Hydroelectric Power Project on the local populations in Burundi, and what are specific socioeconomic and cultural factors that contribute to these special impacts?"