The context: Burundi and the work of Bethesda
The context: Burundi and the work of Bethesda
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Burundi is currently the poorest country in the world, according to 2023 data from the World Bank and Global Finance Magazine, ranking below all its African neighbors in key economic indicators. Over 85% of Burundi’s population lives in rural areas, where extreme poverty is a daily reality. This population is growing rapidly, with 40% of people under the age of 12 and less than half continuing their education beyond primary.
The country has one of the highest infant mortality rates globally. Malaria and other tropical diseases are common, exacerbated by widespread malnutrition. Children with disabilities face even greater hardships, often isolated or rejected by their families and community. Access to education and meaningful participation in society is rare for those living with disabilities, further deepening their marginalisation.
In the midst of these overwhelming challenges, the Christian work of Bethesda stands as a beacon of hope. Located in Muyinga, Bethesda transforms the lives of disabled children and others in need. Through education, healthcare, and community outreach, Bethesda empowers individuals who have long been neglected, offering them not only the chance to survive, but to thrive. Our efforts break down barriers, fostering inclusion, and restoring dignity to the most vulnerable.
Burundi borders Rwanda, DRC and TanzaniaMuyinga province is in the North East corner of Burundi
Fiacre teaching a parent how to support her daughter
This child's standing aid was custom made
Our Mission: Seeking Out and Serving the Forgotten
Our Mission: Seeking Out and Serving the Forgotten
We are a small team of Burundian nationals serving rural communities around Muyinga. Many individuals are hidden away, isolated from society due to illness or disability. Our mission is to find them, understand their needs, and remove the barriers that prevent their inclusion in education and community life.
We demonstrate the love of God through partnering with local pastors, community leaders, and facilitators to bring hope and healing. Together, we strive to:
Bring basic health and nutrition education
Teach families and communities to include everyone equally and model this through running community activities for young people
Provide physiotherapy to identify and treat disabilities
Run epilepsy clinics (epilepsy is very common in Burundi due to high fevers from childhood illnesses such as malaria)
Supply physical aids to enable mobility and access to education
Meet basic material needs for clothing, bedding and a means to make a living
Help people to get access to and funding for medical care
By working directly in the communities we aim to restore dignity, provide practical assistance, and ensure that everyone has the chance to participate fully in life.
Our team
Our team
Our fantastic team is led by Meduc supported by Divine, healthcare educator and outreach worker, and our physiotherapist, Fiacre. They have a network of trained facilitators in the villages.
The Right Revd Jean Berchmans Mweningoma, Bishop of Muyinga, oversees the work.
Most of our funding comes from the generosity of supporters in the UK who donate through The Kepplewray Trust. Thanks to their ongoing contributions, we are able to cover day-to-day operations and have recently funded a replacement 4x4 vehicle which is essential for reaching remote communities.
Many of our supporters subscribe to our regular email updates, allowing them to stay informed and join us in prayer for the work. Their prayers and financial support are vital to the continued impact and growth of our mission.
Divine teaching how to grow more nutritious food
Village children welcoming the team
Fiacre adjusting a wheelchair
Elias, one of seven children has cerebral palsy which his family thought to be a result of evil spirits. He was on the ground, cold, covered in sores and severely malnourished. We provided some clothing and a mattress for Elias and helped his mum to understand his disability. Sadly, he died soon after.
Rebecca, from Ntobwe is unable to walk. She was confined to her house with no means of making a living. We got to know Rebecca through a local pastor. We provided her with a wheelchair and the means to start her own small business selling rice flour, beans and soap. Rebecca is now supporting herself successfully.
In Murama village , Didace was found moving around on the ground on his back. Bethesda provided a wheelchair for him to enable him to attend school and be an active member of the community.
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