Thanks to a generous donation, more than 7,200 people now have abundant access to safe, clean water near their homes.
The community of Gisyo in Kanyosha, Bujumbura Mairie, has experienced a seemingly impossible transformation. Over 7,000 people now have permanent access to clean water, a resource that has reshaped lives, empowered women, and given children the chance to dream of brighter futures.
Located near Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest freshwater lake, Gisyo is a bustling community whose people rely on farming, fishing, and small retail trade for their livelihood. Yet, this vibrant community has long faced challenges due to rising lake waters and a lack of access to safe water.
The borehole reaches more than 73 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.
The Challenges of the Past
Before the water system was installed, clean water was a luxury for people in Kanyosha. Women and children often walked almost a mile each way to fetch water from undeveloped springs around Lake Tanganyika. The journey was exhausting, and the water was often contaminated, leading to widespread waterborne diseases. Children, especially those under 5 and pregnant women, were among the most affected. Many children dropped out of school because of the time spent fetching water or due to frequent illness. For families like Euphrasie’s, the challenges were immense. “Every drop of water counted,” she recalls. She would fetch only 20 liters every four days—barely enough to drink. They relied on floodwaters from the lake for bathing, cooking, and washing, which only worsened her family’s health.
The Power of Clean Water
Everything changed when the clean water system arrived. The community no longer has to endure long walks or rely on unsafe sources. The community leader, Olivier Karabagega, said, “Children don’t skip school anymore, women don’t complain, and men sometimes help collect water since it is clean and near homes.” For Euphrasie, the change has been life-altering. With access to clean water, she could open a small restaurant. No longer burdened by the cost and time of fetching water, she could focus on cooking meals that now attract many people, including field workers and construction crews. Her affordable, quality meals have gained her a loyal customer base. “You think you have given us water, but really, you empowered me and other women,” she says.
A Community Transformed
The ripple effects of clean water in Gisyo have been extraordinary:
- Better Health: Cases of waterborne diseases have significantly decreased.
- Thriving Education: Children are back in school and thriving, no longer missing class due to illness or long water-fetching trips.
- Economic Growth: New opportunities, like Euphrasie’s restaurant and increased farming activities, are helping families earn a sustainable income.
- Improved Hygiene: Clean water is available even during the dry season, enhancing sanitation and overall quality of life.
- Restored Dignity: Water is available to wash clothes and household items.
Stories of Hope
Claude, a biker who transports locals up and down the steep mountains on his motor taxi and one of Euphrasie’s regular customers, shares how the water system has impacted his life. “The food at Euphrasie’s is better and more affordable now. Before, I would eat three times a week to save money, but now I can enjoy a meal every day. We all win!”
Gratitude Beyond Words
Euphrasie’s words capture the gratitude of the entire Gisyo community to our generous donors: “You have given hope and a better life to the whole community. We will be forever grateful.” Gisyo is no longer a place of struggle but one of opportunity, resilience, and hope. As a result of this gift, the lives of the people of Euphrasie and the thousands of people have been transformed. With your support, we are able to help create lasting change—one water system at a time.
QR This Page
