On July 15, 2025, the African Development Bank and the Government of Burkina Faso officially launched the third phase of the incubator program under the Support Project for Youth Employment and Skills Development in Rural Areas (PADEJ-MR) in Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso.
The PADEJ-MR initiative aims to address rural unemployment and underemployment by equipping young people with the skills and tools needed to start and grow businesses in agriculture and related sectors. The incubator program is a key component of this strategy, providing targeted support for youth-led enterprises, including training, mentorship, and access to financing.
This third phase builds on the achievements of the previous stages, expanding the program’s reach and intensifying its impact on rural communities. It focuses on promoting entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and enhancing job creation in rural Burkina Faso, where youth face limited economic opportunities.
Through this collaboration, the African Development Bank and the Burkinabe government are working to create sustainable pathways for youth empowerment, reduce poverty, and stimulate inclusive economic growth in rural areas across the country.
