In the Rugazi Commune, former province of Bubanza, the Ndagijimana family experienced a profound change in their lives due to a tragedy that could have been prevented. We share their story today to highlight these pressing humanitarian challenges and to express our sincere appreciation for the compassion shown by members of the diaspora. Their proactive support has been instrumental in providing the family with a hope during this incredibly difficult period.
A Journey of Sacrifice
In 2024, Kwizerimana Ange, the wife of Ndagijimana Fabien and a mother of four children (two daughters and two sons), faced a challenging battle with a serious eye condition. Despite being aware of the warning signs—such as blurred vision, frequent headaches, and difficulty seeing at night—extreme financial constraints hindered timely medical intervention that might have preserved her sight.
As her condition worsened, Fabien confronted a deeply difficult decision. In a heartfelt effort to ensure his wife received the necessary medical care, he made the difficult choice to sell the family’s small plot of land, their sole means of long-term security.
Unfortunately, this sacrifice did not yield the hoped-for outcome. Although the medical team advised surgery to address the most severely affected eye, the remaining eye eventually also deteriorated. As a result, Ange has lost her sight entirely, and the family now faces significant challenges without her vision, their land, or a stable home.
ACB in Action: A Lifeline from the Diaspora
In response to the challenges faced by the Ndagijimana family, Australia Charity for Burundi (ACB) Ltd. has intervened and visited the family to learn more about Ange’s illness. This assistance was made possible through the generosity of compassionate members of the Burundian Diaspora in Australia, whose support is helping Ange regain her stability after losing her sight.
Targeted Housing Assistance
A critical aspect of supporting the Ndagijimana family needs is Housing Stability. To ensure they have a secure and dignified place to live.
Video of ACB’s first visit to the Ndagijiman family residence in October 2024.
The Road Ahead: How You Can Help
Despite the initial progress made through community intervention, Mr. Ndagijimana Fabien and his family continue to navigate significant challenges. The profound impact of losing both their sight and their property has created a difficult path toward long-term recovery.
Current Challenges and Urgent Needs
The family’s transition to stability is hindered by several critical factors:
Loss of Livelihood: Without land to cultivate or a reliable source of income, the family lacks the means to sustain their daily needs independently.
Housing Security: While immediate rental costs have been addressed, the need for a permanent housing solution remains the most pressing priority to ensure the family’s future safety.
Ongoing Well-being: The emotional and physical toll of their circumstances requires sustained communal support to prevent further hardship.
A Call to Action
Mr. Ndagijimana is seeking further assistance to secure a stable, permanent home for his wife and children. Continued generous support can provide the foundation they need to move beyond this period of uncertainty.
“The harsh reality of illness has overshadowed their dreams for the future, but with community support, we can ensure they do not face this darkness alone.”