“If this COVID19 comes here Mama Daniel it will finish us all”. These are the words of the community leaders to me as we met to inform and educate the community on the recent virus that has impacted the entire world. With tears threatening to spill over all i could do was nod my head. Because he’s right. One of the biggest issues to tackle here was to get society to stop greeting each other (a huge part of Burundian culture) it was announced on the radio “do not shake hands” it was on the TV, social media, and announced in churches and schools. And people have listened.
Every shop and institution were told to have hand washing facility’s outside which has also worked (although not always used). The airport and all borders are closed until further notice. However, no social distancing measures have taken place and during the recent election campaigning people were gathering in their thousands across the country. The official numbers of COVID19 cases are relatively low, it is widely thought and been reported on by other sources however that many people are in hospital with respiratory related problems and many many more with symptoms. 5 WHO officials that had been sent to help with the COVID19 situation were recently expelled from the country. The population were hugely discouraged by this.
Our YADA community were delighted with their hand washing facilities and soap that we provided. To put a tap on each bucket is expensive so they suggested that they use plastic cups to pour the water over their hands, whilst not ideal it works. None of these families have washing facilities in their home so this will really help with hand hygiene. It’s our wish to give the families soap on a monthly basis.
It was fantastic to receive funds to help those who have been so badly affected by the floods during the wet season. The above photo will show you what some families had to resort to, living in this tin shack because their mud house hadn’t survived. Many of the families outside toilet collapsed and literally poured in to their homes. Horrendous. Thankfully YADA were able to rebuild those outside toilets and help with the clear up.
We are thankful for the many many prayers for Burundi during the elections. It has been much more peaceful that anyone anticipated. However it feels like the entire country is holding its breath until the final result is announced later this week. We appreciate your continued prayers.
Thank you for your love and support.