Project Kickoff
We are pleased to announce that construction on the Kazuga water system began on March 22, 2021. The Kazuga water system is the second water system to be built this year, and our 58th project overall. See the full list of projects here.
At the outset, this community, located in Bahanga Colline, Bururi Province, had a primary water source several miles away from the community and the water there was contaminated.
Preventable, water-borne diseases are the leading cause of death in Burundi, which has the 12th highest child mortality rate globally. Communities with Gazelle Foundation water systems have drastically reduced, and in some cases eliminated, the presence of water-borne illnesses among the families that live in them.
Thanks to our generous supporters, this project will serve 870 people when complete.
Project Overview
Construction dates: March 22, 2021 - May 6, 2021
Located in the Bahanga Colline, Bururi Province
Cost: $22,993.24
Scope: 2km pipeline
1 storage tank
5 tap stands
Employees: 50 people
Serve: 870 residents
Project Schematics
Where or What is a Colline?
In the United States we have states, cities, and counties, etc… learn more about the subdivisions in Burundi.
How It Works
Water is captured from a source before it can become contaminated. It is filtered in the collection chamber and flows onward. Entrenched PVC pipe carries water to tanks, and to multiple tap stands. Tap stands are strategically positioned within easy walking distance to schools, churches, community centers and other central locations to maximize access points for residents. Water is available for free to all people regardless of the person’s tribe or religion.
Follow our progress on Facebook and Instagram for the most up-to-date details.
Field Update: Interim Progress
Progress on the Kazuga water system is well underway, with a projected completion date of June 2021. Milestones completed to date include:
Materials purchased and transported from Bujumbura
Source catchment and protection complete
The collection chamber is complete
Digging trenches is complete
Connection of pipe is around 1.7km
4 tap stands are complete
Economic Benefits of Clean Water Investment
According to the World Health Organization, every dollar invested in clean water yields $4 - $12 in economic returns. In Burundi, building water systems provides jobs and stimulates local economies in a country with one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, and where the average family lives on less than $600 a year.
For this project, 50 local workers have been hired to help with system construction, including masons and plumbers. We also purchase supplies and materials locally, giving the community’s economy a further boost.
Did You Know?
When the source catchment and collection chamber are complete, clean water is available to residents directly from PVC pipe, even before the tap stands are built.
Gazelle Foundation water systems are named after the source of the clean water.
SYSTEM COMPLETION
KAZUGA WATER SYSTEM COMPLETE
The Kazuga system was completed this week, on budget and ahead of schedule. It serves 870 people in the area. It brings us, 870 people, closer to achieving our goal of providing every person in Burundi with clean water, the highest quality of life, and hope within reach.
When the residents saw clean water from the tap stands — for the first time ever — celebrations began.
“Joy and happiness are everywhere. Dancing and chanting are the best way to express gratitude to Gazelle Foundation — for this community. The people are celebrating with joy! I can’t stop watching! Thank you for supporting the Gazelle Foundation. You are making an impact on Burundians." —Gilbert Tuhabonye
One of the key components of our work is the handoff of the water system. Upon completion, we turn ownership and stewardship of the system over to the community. The local workers employed to build our systems have the maintenance knowledge that allows for greater long-term viability and sustainability of our systems.
Tap stand number 5 of Kazuga water system. Water jugs are lined up ready to be filled with clean water.
Join Our Mission
This project was funded by wonderful supporters like you. We thank these generous individuals for changing the lives of the people in this community through access to clean water.
Our next water system depends on you! We have 36 months of shovel-ready projects lined up - all we need is your support. Help us give the gift of clean water to those that need it most.