In the lush green hills of Rugerero, nestled within the commune of Gashoho in Muyinga Province, scarcity once defined life. With only one well serving multiple villages, residents faced long queues and frequent shortages. Many turned to unsafe water from nearby streams, risking their health daily. The strain extended far beyond the physical: children dropped out of school, families struggled to make ends meet, and young people left for the cities in search of opportunity.
Because of the generous sacrifice of a donor, those circumstances began to change with the installation of the Rugerero water system, which provided water for more than 450 people. For the first time, safe, clean water became accessible to the entire community. This new lifeline didn’t just provide water — it became the foundation for a brighter future. Families now have the resources they need to improve their health, sustain their agriculture, and rebuild their local economy.
The GPS coordinates noted here are for the borehole that reaches more than 70 meters into the ground. Taps, similar to the faucets we see in our gardens, are situated throughout the area to make water easy to access for all members of the community.
Case after Case — Living Proof of Transformation:
Nibigira Vital, a 24-year-old entrepreneur, is living proof of this transformation. Forced to leave his village for Bujumbura in search of work, he returned home when he heard about the new water system. He saw opportunity where there was once only hardship and established the village’s first restaurant. “This water system gave me a chance to create something meaningful,” Vital shares. “My restaurant now generates a daily income of 7,000 to 8,000 Fbu. I’m even building my own house to expand my business.”
Vital is not alone in rediscovering hope in Rugerero. Young people who have migrated to cities are returning to start small businesses. With clean water readily available, they can now generate their own sustainable source of income. Crops like bananas, previously sold out of town, are now processed locally, adding value to the community. The water system has revitalized Rugerero in ways few could have imagined. It’s not just about convenience or health — it is about giving people the tools to thrive. Clean water has inspired innovation, strengthened family economies, and restored pride in a village once left behind.
Your Donation Can Impact a Community Like Regerero
Thanks to our generous supporters, Rugerero is no longer a place of scarcity but one of opportunity. Young people like Nibigira are surviving and building brighter futures for themselves and their community.
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