According to African Press Organization, “ICF announced a new investment in Africa by financing a hotel company, Opulent (B) Ltd. to develop the first DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels in BUJUMBURA, Burundi. The hotel will help improve the country's essential business infrastructure by providing international-standard rooms and conference facilities. IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector. They help developing countries achieve sustainable growth by financing investment, providing advisory services to businesses and governments, and mobilizing capital in the international financial markets.”
Burundi is experiencing reformation in areas that are drawing investors, such as paying taxes, getting construction permits and resolving insolvency. Because of this reformation Burundi now offers a business environment more attractive to investments like international hotels. Burundi’s changing business climate was recognized in this year's IFC/World Bank Doing Business 2012, where Burundi was ranked the 7th most improved economy in the world and jumped eight places in the ranking.
Mr. Ayaz Ali Jivraj, Director of Opulent, is quoted in an article on StarAfrica.com as saying, “Burundi's business boom is attracting more travelers seeking quality hotel rooms and conference facilities. The DoubleTree's key location in Bujumbura's central business district, along with Hilton's quality guarantee, will build confidence among business travelers and help place Burundi at par with other commercial hubs in East Africa.”
The DoubleTree's hotel business will generate much need employment for Burundians that involves lifelong skills training. This is a great day for Burundi – This is the New Burundi!
