Young people are Burundi’s hope. About 43% of the population is under the age of 15! A decades-long history of civil wars and ethnic conflicts has plunged the population into hardship and poverty. In order to build a new future and advance the country, many wounds must be healed first – especially in the hearts. Character building, education towards peace, reconciliation and solidarity are needed.
This is an important goal for us in accompanying and inspiring over 880 groups of girls and young women. These groups are spread throughout the country and in almost all parishes. This requires us to make many visits and offer training in the different areas. Every year, we sisters hold around twelve retreats and 20 training days in the various dioceses.
The commitment is worthwhile because these young people become active in their local area: they help elderly people to cultivate their fields, look for wood for cooking and accompany sick people to hospital. They ensure cleanliness in the parish church and in the outer stations. They try to motivate Christians to pray, especially in the outer stations where there are no priests.
