World Water Day: Then, Now, and the Work Still Ahead in Burundi
This World Water Day, we reflect on the journey of bringing clean water to Burundi—from the early struggles to the progress made today.
Most races celebrate the finish line with a medal. Run For The Water does it differently, turning every mile into clean water systems that serve communities for generations.
Construction is underway on the Kabizi–Butwe water system—renovating and expanding an existing, failing system to bring reliable, nearby access to clean water for 4,500 people.
Run For the Water turns 20. For two decades, Austin has turned miles into clean water—building a legacy of impact that’s still growing.
A sold-out crowd gathered at Hotel ZaZa on Saturday evening, February 28, 2026, for a powerful night of celebration and impact, raising support to bring clean water to more communities in Burundi.
Guests began the evening with an immersive, eye-opening water walk simulation, offering a glimpse into the daily journey many take to collect water. That shared experience set the tone for the night, which continued with dinner, dancing, a lively auction, and a photo booth to capture the moment.
The smiles tell the story of a community coming together to build clean water systems that transform daily life in Burundi.
Austin High School Academy of Global Studies students fund clean water for 10 classrooms in Burundi. For the ninth year, students donated, fundraised, and participated in a walk simulation all of which support the Gazelle Foundation’s mission to provide people in Burundi daily access to clean water.
For 31 years, Gilbert Tuhabonye hosts an annual Walk Towards Forgiveness: An Anniversary of Life, Love and Clean Water. The annual remembrance honors his decision to live life with joy, faith, perseverance, and forgiveness after surviving genocide. As a result, the Gazelle Foundation was created to bring life-saving clean water and hope to people in Burundi.
In remembrance of the tragic events of 1993, and to celebrate the strength in resilience of Gilbert’s 30th anniversary, we're announcing a generous match for all funds raised by our campaign up to $10,000, including monthly donations.
Gilbert Tuhabonye was honored to represent Burundi by becoming the first torchbearer ahead of the 1996 Summer Olympics held in Atlanta, Georgia. For a man nearly burned alive to bear a flame as a symbol of peace and friendship, it was a full-circle moment for Gilbert. In recognition of the Paris Games, we talked about this extraordinary experience with him.