Borehole Project Enhances Water Access and Community Health in Burundi

The United Methodist Church has drilled a borehole in Ruburizi, Burundi, to improve access to drinking water for 5,000 residents, combating water-borne diseases and enhancing community health. Funded by the United Methodist Committee on Relief, the project aims to alleviate water scarcity caused by natural disasters, significantly reduce the distance women and girls travel for water, and foster economic development.

In response to pressing health needs, the United Methodist Church has recently drilled a borehole in the town of Ruburizi, Burundi, funded through the efforts of the United Methodist Committee on Relief. This initiative aims to combat the prevalence of water-borne diseases affecting the local population, directly benefiting around 5,000 residents with improved access to clean drinking water.

Launched in March 2023, this project was initiated to provide relief following devastating natural disasters in 2022 that severely impacted existing water infrastructure. This borehole is part of the initiative designed to support flood survivors and enhance access to safe drinking water in the cyclone-affected areas, as highlighted by Patrick Abro, a missionary with the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries in the Burundi Conference.

Addressing the critical water shortage caused by flooding and landslides, the Rev. Cimpaye Valentine emphasized that the project not only aims to provide water access but also to reduce diseases associated with poor hygiene and protect vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls. The distance to water sources has drastically decreased from five miles to just one-third of a mile, promoting safety and well-being within the community.

Elderly resident Christine Ntamubano expressed gratitude for the closer access to drinking water, alleviating the health risks previously posed by fetching water from local rivers. Additionally, the Rev. Buratangaje Japhet indicated an increase in congregational membership following the borehole installation, which reflects the broader positive implications on community life and solidarity.

The borehole has also spurred local economic development, allowing children more time for education and agricultural tasks. Manirakiza Geneviève, a beneficiary, shared insights on improved agricultural productivity due to easier access to water. Sector manager Nshimirimana Japhet recognized the ongoing support from The United Methodist Church and advocated for expanding the water network into additional localities, underscoring the borehole’s role in enhancing community health and welfare.

The establishment of the borehole in Ruburizi signifies a vital step towards improving access to clean water, diminishing health risks associated with water-borne diseases, and fostering community development. Efforts by the United Methodist Church not only address immediate resource needs but also contribute substantively to the overall well-being of the population. The project’s success serves as a beacon of hope and a model for future initiatives aimed at improving living conditions in similar regions.

Original Source: www.umnews.org