More than 400 youth benefit from clean water

(MissionNewswire) The new Don Bosco Kagwema Community, located near the region of Bujumbura, Burundi*, has new sanitation facilities thanks to donor funding from the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.” Salesian Missions is the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

The sanitation facility had to be developed while the wider Kagwema mission is still being physically established. Community labor was engaged, helping reduce costs while involving the local community in the project. Particular attention was given to the septic system, rainwater channeling to strengthen the environmental safety and functionality of the completed facility.

Prior to this initiative, the community lacked sanitary washrooms and a waste management system. Local youth participating in Salesian activities were exposed to severe environmental contamination and heightened risks of waterborne communicable diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid.

Establishing sanitation facilities was identified as the first phase of infrastructure required before expanding broader educational, vocational and residential programs. More than 400 youth who regularly participate in the oratory activities, sports programs and community gatherings are benefiting from the project.

Father Servilien Ufitamahoro, the planning and development office director and provincial economer, said, “Establishing safe, modern hygiene facilities is a fundamental first step as we build our new presence in Kagwema. Our goal is to ensure that from day one, every young person who comes to Don Bosco experiences a safe, dignified environment where their health is protected and their human dignity is honored.”

Father Mbaga Corneille, a Salesian priest appointed to Don Bosco Kagwema, noted, “As our community takes shape here in Kagwema, these facilities immediately serve the hundreds of children joining our daily oratory and chapel activities. Beyond providing clean water and sanitation, this project restores hope and sets a healthy foundation for the future schools and programs we plan to bring to these young people.”

Burundi has seen more than a decade of violence and conflict, contributing to widespread poverty according to UNICEF. Children are some of the most severely affected by the country’s rampant poverty. Fifty-three percent of children under the age of 5 suffer from growth stunting caused by inadequate food, low-quality diet, poor infant feeding practices, poor household management of childhood diseases and the general decline of the country’s health system.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Burundi

UNICEF – Burundi

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.