Burundi faces many challenges, including poverty, climate change and political instability. Tearfund has worked in partnership with local organisations in Burundi since 1998, equipping church and community leaders to respond to local needs. This week, the Tearfund team in Burundi asks for prayer for ‘significant, lasting change in Burundi’.
Sunday 15 June
Burundi is increasingly vulnerable to the effects of the climate crisis, with more frequent droughts and floods. In a country where 94 per cent of the population relies on rain to water crops, the damage caused by too much or too little rain is immense. Pray that more farmers will learn more effective farming practices to help overcome these issues.
Monday 16 June
Tearfund promotes sustainable agricultural practices in Burundi, focusing on techniques that are resilient to climate change, such as crop rotation, drought-resistant crops and rainwater harvesting. This training helps farmers adapt to changing weather patterns. Give thanks for the many bountiful harvests families are enjoying thanks to this training.
Tuesday 17 June
Juliette is disabled and lives with her frail mother. Last year, her house was destroyed by floodwater and they lost all their cooking equipment. Tearfund funded local partner Help Channel Burundi to support families like Juliette’s. She was given a tent and essential household items in the immediate aftermath of the floods. Pray for Juliette and others as they rebuild their lives.
Wednesday 18 June
Tearfund’s Transforming Communities training helps communities focus on the resources that God has provided for them. ‘The training opened our eyes,’ says Pastor Salthiel. ‘We have the strength, the natural, human and material resources.’ Pray that more churches in Burundi will come forward for training.
Thursday 19 June
Last year, Desire Majambere, Tearfund’s Burundi Country Director, went to the opening of five new health centres, including one in Pastor Salthiel’s community. ‘I cannot express the joy I have at the opening of this health centre,’ says Niyonzima, from one community. Give thanks for the impact this will bring.
Friday 20 June
Vincent took part in Transforming Communities training at his local church. He gained a deeper understanding of agriculture, leading him to adopt modern techniques and improve his farming. As a result, he has seen greatly increased yields. Pray that his example will spread to nearby communities.
Saturday 21 June
‘Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary’ (Isaiah 40:31)
The Tearfund staff in Burundi find this verse an inspiration.‘These scriptures remind the team that even in difficult situations, their strength comes from God,’ says Desire. Pray for the team to be strengthened.
