Burundi The World's Poorest Country

Very few of us have heard of Burundi or know where it is, yet Burundi is one of the poorest and most dangerous countries in the world. Simon Guillebaud  had a very clear vision when, in 1999 he set up the Great Lakes Outreach Project (GLO) with the aim of transforming Burundi and beyond through a holistic mission, working with local leaders.

Simon is a gifted communicator. As a speaker he loves to encourage and challenge everyday perceptions. He is the author of several books including the renowned, ‘Choose Life’. That is why we were delighted when he agreed to visit our Club. We could not have been more moved and inspired by the story of his personal enlightenment as he quit his 'normal' life and made the transformation of Burundi his personal life ambition.  

Funds from our Club help to create change. For the Burundi community this means supporting a project that gives individuals skills, training and knowledge which will ensure they work and benefit their economy and their families. It ensures that developments are sustainable from generation to generation.  Underpinning Simon's work is a deep faith in God which sustains him in his mission.

The Rotary Club will be profiling the many 'life changing' stories that this project has created throughout th year. You will be able to read about Beatrice, whose life was transformed when she was supported to undertake training in tailoring from which she was able to make a living.  And also Arielle, who was helped to reform her life after the death of her father, prostitution and HIV threatened the stability of her family and her life. 

Our contribution as a Club may be small but small steps and every penny donated changes lives. 

This year you will be able to follow their stories through this website and other publications.