Give street children in Burundi a future

Things are really tough in Burundi at the moment. New Generation continues to face many challenges, mostly as a result of ongoing instability in the country as a whole with Burundi's socio-political and economic situation remaining complex. Inflation has now hit 45% in Burundi (source: Institut de Statistiques et d’Études Économiques du Burundi (ISTEEBU)) and New Generation have seen a major impact in the monthly grocery budget they have for feeding the young people.

Thankfully, through growing their own food as part of the Ubuntu Agriculture project in Muyinga, they have experienced a wonderful harvest in maize, rice & beans which partially offset the need to buy groceries sold in the Bujumbura markets. The population still faces day to day problems, with water and electricity shortages, low internet connection, scarcity of sugar and a major fuel crisis.

So Burundi continues to walk a tightrope between a fragile stability and the need for substantial change.

But New Generation continues to operate, despite this turbulence, with the children themselves showing remarkable resilience.

Here is one story from a child supported by the programme (name has been changed).

"My name is Claude, and I'm 9 years old, currently in my 3rd year of primary school. Before I started school, life was very different. I lived on the streets and often had to beg for money to buy food from restaurants.

My first contact with New Generation was when I came with a friend to an Outreach programme. They gave us food. One day, I got the opportunity to live in one of New Generation's homes, and I live with other children now.

This past school year was a big success for me! I was really pleased with my results, achieving an 84% score. I'm truly grateful for the support I get from New Generation. They feed me, give me all the school supplies I need. My biggest dream is to become a teacher so I can educate other children.”

Thank you for everything you do to support New Generation. Your generosity is hugely appreaciated by ALL the young people and staff at New Generation.

Links:

• Street Action