54%
Of children do not grow up healthily in Burundi
Malnutrition
More than 50% of Burundian children suffer from stunting, meaning that they do not grow up or develop properly.
While this can have many reasons, such as poor hygiene and sanitation or early pregnancies, the primary cause is poor nutrition for children and their mothers.
Like in other parts of Burundi, this has long-term negative impacts on children in Gitega.
8 in 10
People are poor in Burundi
Widespread poverty
As in the rest of the country, the Gitega region suffers from a difficult economic situation. In fact, 8 out of 10 people in Burundi live in poverty.
A large proportion of Burundians are employed in agriculture, especially in rural areas. However, the effects of the civil war and the recurring drought threaten the livelihoods of many people.
Your support makes a difference for children in Gitega
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
170
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Children playing together. Siblings grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Burundi).
How your support helps in Gitega
Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Providing medical care
In areas with limited health services, SOS Children’s Villages provides medical advice and assistance. We offer preventative measures such as medical check-ups and vaccination programmes. Most of the patients who approach us for medical help come from local families, who could otherwise not afford to receive treatment.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.