By OLIVIER C | Project Leader
Project Report Protection of People Against Lightning Killer By Project Title Protection of People Against Lightning Killer in Burundi Organization Information Organization Name: Location: Bujumbura Website: savelifemakedifference.com Executive Summary Burundi has recently experienced severe storms accompanied by dangerous lightning strikes causing deaths, injuries, destruction of property, and loss of domestic animals. The increase in extreme weather events has become a major humanitarian and environmental concern, especially during the rainy season. This project, led by , aims to reduce lightning-related deaths and injuries by installing modern lightning protection systems in schools, community centers, health facilities, and vulnerable public areas across Burundi. The project focuses on protecting children, teachers, families, and communities through the installation of lightning arresters, grounding systems, earth electrodes, and public awareness campaigns on lightning safety. The total project budget is $50,500, with current donations helping initiate the first phase of implementation. Background and Problem Statement In recent months, Burundi has been affected by violent storms with devastating lightning strikes. Several tragic incidents have occurred across the country: Four people were killed by lightning in Buganda Commune in northwestern Burundi. Seven schoolchildren died during a lightning strike while attending class in southern Burundi. More than 51 people were injured during the same storm. Domestic animals and properties have also been heavily affected. Climate-related disasters are becoming increasingly frequent in Burundi, threatening vulnerable populations, especially children in schools and people living in rural areas without adequate protection infrastructure. Many schools and public buildings lack lightning protection systems, exposing communities to deadly risks every rainy season. Project Goal To protect vulnerable communities in Burundi from lightning-related deaths, injuries, and property damage through the installation of effective lightning protection systems and public education programs. Objectives Main Objectives Install anti-lightning protection systems in vulnerable schools and public buildings. Reduce deaths and injuries caused by lightning strikes. Protect domestic animals and community infrastructure. Educate communities about lightning safety measures. Strengthen disaster risk reduction efforts in Burundi. Target Beneficiaries The project will directly benefit: Schoolchildren Teachers Rural families Health centers Community institutions Farmers and livestock owners Vulnerable communities in high-risk regions Estimated beneficiaries: More than 20,000 people Proposed Solution The project will implement the following solutions: 1. Installation of Lightning Protection Systems The organization will install: Lightning rods Earth electrode systems Grounding systems Capture devices Surge protection equipment These systems will safely direct lightning energy into the ground and significantly reduce the risk of fatalities and damage. 2. Community Awareness Campaigns Educational programs will teach communities: Safety measures during storms Emergency response procedures Safe shelter practices Protection of livestock and property 3. Risk Assessment and Monitoring Technical teams will: Identify high-risk zones Conduct inspections of vulnerable buildings Monitor installation quality Ensure long-term maintenance Implementation Plan Activity Timeline Community assessment Month 1 Procurement of materials Month 1–2 Installation of protection systems Month 2–6 Community awareness campaigns Month 3–8 Monitoring and evaluation Ongoing Expected Results The project expects to achieve: Reduced lightning-related deaths and injuries Safer schools and public buildings Increased public awareness on lightning safety Improved disaster preparedness Better protection for livestock and infrastructure Long-Term Impact The installation of sustainable lightning protection systems will provide long-term safety for communities and reduce future disaster risks. Schools and public institutions will remain protected for many years, helping save lives and support safer learning environments for children. The project will also contribute to Burundi’s broader climate resilience and disaster management efforts. Budget Summary Item Estimated Cost Lightning rods and materials $20,000 Earth electrode systems $10,000 Installation and technical labor $8,500 Transportation and logistics $4,000 Community awareness programs $3,000 Monitoring and maintenance $5,000 Total Budget $50,500 Current Funding Status Total Goal: $50,500 Amount Raised: $424 Remaining Amount: $50,076 Number of Donations: 7 Conclusion Lightning disasters continue to threaten lives across Burundi, particularly among children and vulnerable rural communities. Through this project, seeks to provide sustainable protection systems that will save lives, protect infrastructure, and improve community resilience against climate-related disasters. Support from donors, partners, and humanitarian organizations will help ensure safer schools and communities throughout Burundi.
By Olivier Ciza | PROJECT LEADER
By OLIVIER C. | Project Leader
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