Save our School: 230 Burundian Pupils Need a Roof

Dearest friends and supporters,

That's it, we finally raised enough funds to start the rehabiliation of our school in the SAB slum in Bujumbura, Burundi!

We experienced some delays because we couldn't get started and hire the contractor before having enough funds available to pay for the deposit. In the end, it turned out to our advantage because Françoise, the director of our local partner overseeing the project, found a way to save costs by using abode bricks for the school structure. In addition, it was perfect timing to be doing this during the summer school holidays when the children aren't at school.

This traditional brick making method has a number of advantages and few disadvantages. They have good water resistance, are fireproof, durable yet biodegradable, non-toxic and procure excellent thermal performance, solidity and security. They can be built entirely using local materials and do not require costly tools or equipment. Through this process, not only will we save money on building costs, but the local residents of the slum will be able to learn from this technique to improve their own huts, making them more resistant and sturdy.

People in the community were so excited when we started the works. Fathers of our students volunteered for some manual labour. All the material from the previous structure was carefully inventarised and sorted to be re-used: earth, rubble, wood beams, doors, windows, nails, etc. Nothing is going to waste.

The children are off for a few weeks, but the sewing workshop for mothers is going full steam ahead now and the trainees went from their theoretical literacy classes to practical hands-on training. They will learn to sew by hand and on sewing machines.

We are so excited to see this project move forward. The situation in Burundi is still desperate and insecurity, inflation, unemployment and hunger remain major concerns, but at least when they come to Murakaza, children and their mothers can feel a sense of normality, solidarity and belonging.

We couldn't thank you enough for your support. We couldn't do any of that without you. We are still raising funds for this project so please donate again if you can, or pass this on to a friend who might want to join in.

Thanks again from the bottom of our hearts.

Warmest Regards,

 Sylvia