In Burundi, shortages and power cuts slow a return from international isolation

By GASPARD MAHEBURWA
Associated Press

BUJUMBURA, Burundi (AP) — Burundi seems to be running short of everything but patience. A deadly nationwide political crackdown in the East African nation is now in the past. But the return to international favor, and benefits like development assistance that come with it, has been slow. As always, everyday citizens feel it most. It’s never been easy in landlocked Burundi, which at times has been described as the world’s poorest country, according to United Nations figures. The list of commodities in short supply in recent months has ranged from fuel to sugar. But an electricity shortage is hitting the hardest, slowing attempts at economic recovery.