PROJECT KICKOFF
We are pleased to announce that construction on the Gihanama Water System #75 kicked off on June 25, 2025. The system was made possible by our incredible supporters.
This water system marks a new beginning for this rural community by delivering permanent and close access to clean water. Currently, there is no clean water located near the community. By abject necessity, the majority of the population relies on a primary water source that is several miles away from the community, and the water there is 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 the generous supporters his project will serve 1,750 people when it is complete.
Children without clean water systems nearby walk long distances for miles on end to fetch water multiple times a day. However, now that construction has started, residents are 1 day closer to accessing as much clean water as they need from tap stands that will be conveniently dispersed throughout the community.
WATER ACCESS PRIOR TO CLEAN WATER SYSTEM PARTNERSHIPS
Building sustainable water systems breaks the cycle of poor health and poverty. The fact is, preventable, waterborne diseases are still a leading cause of death in Burundi. 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.
Clean water means clear futures for residents of every age. Young people can pursue education while their families can devote more time to farming and other economic activities to strengthen their community’s long-term resilience. Access to clean and safe water for their daily use ensures environmental, economic, and social health, an important legacy of sustainability built into each water system.
Water systems are built to last, which is why it is so important that we purchase supplies locally and hire local tradespeople who gain knowledge about how to maintain the system properly. Building local know-how means clean water will continue to flow in perpetuity.
Project Overview
Construction dates: June 25, 2025 - October 15, 2025
Located in Bururi Province of Matana Commune
Scope: 4.1 km pipeline
4 storage tanks
12 tap stands
Employees: 75 workers including masons and plumbers
Serves 1,750 residents
Project Schematic
The system is located in Bihanga Colline. Learn more about the provinces and collines of Burundi.
Gazelle Foundation is Uniquely Qualified for this project
We continue to maintain a 100% success rate, meaning all of the water systems we have built since our start are still pumping clean water years later. Hiring local workers for the project construction also develops local knowledge for upkeep and maintenance, as the ownership of each water system is turned over to the community upon completion. Meet our project manager who keeps multiple water system construction projects in motion all year round.
Left: Tap stand detail. The drawing includes specifications for construction details and materials. Right: Water tap stand during construction of a different water system. We design systems to distribute water throughout the community, which reduces the distance anyone must travel to fetch clean water.
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. Check back for water system updates which we receive along with new photos each month the system is under construction.
Safer Thriving Communities
Without clean water, education cannot thrive, gender inequality grows, economic activity becomes stagnant, and development is stifled.
Water collection is a job traditionally done by women and children. Our clean water systems reduce the average distance traveled to access water from 4 miles to one-quarter mile. These shorter distances eliminated the dangers of traversing mountainous terrain, or near dangerous, untreated water sources. It also allows children to spend more time in school, and provides women with time to develop trades or care for home and family.
JOIN OUR MISSION
This project was funded by our community of donors. We thank the generous donors for changing the lives of the people in this community through access to clean water.
Our next water system depends on you! Help us give the gift of clean water to those that need it most.
The Gazelle Foundation is thrilled to work with incredible team and sponsors. With joy we are transforming lives across the globe, bringing hope, joy, and peace. Learn more about Burundi where we work.