Angeline Ndayishimiye, the First Lady of the Republic of Burundi, held an audience with Jude Marie Banatte, Regional Director of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) for Central and West Africa, to discuss enhancing a partnership aimed at improving education for Congolese refugee children. The discussions focused on children residing in Busuma camp, located in Buhumuza province and specifically in Ruyigi commune. This high-level meeting showed the mutual commitment to addressing the pressing educational needs of vulnerable populations.
Jude Marie Banatte, representing CRS, articulated the rationale behind their engagement, stating, "As you know, the Fondation Bonne Action « Umugiraneza » undertakes many charitable and philanthropic works. It is in this context that CRS saw the priorities of the Fondation Bonne Action « Umugiraneza », particularly in supporting vulnerable children, Congolese refugee children who are in Busuma camp in Ruyigi commune." Banatte further elaborated on the purpose of his visit to Burundi, explaining, "to renew CRS's commitment to the Burundian community; alongside the government of Burundi where we align with the national vision; Burundi, an emerging country in 2040 and a developed country in 2060." The dialogue during the audience specifically centered on strengthening this vital partnership to improve access to quality education for Congolese refugee children in the Busuma camp.
Partnership Details and Goals
The partnership between the Fondation Bonne Action « Umugiraneza » and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) will implement interventions focusing on several key areas within the refugee education program. These initiatives are designed to improve the learning environment and educational outcomes for Congolese refugee children. Specific interventions will target enhancements in school infrastructure, aiming to provide more suitable and conducive learning spaces for students who have been displaced. This includes ensuring classrooms are well-equipped and safe, fostering an environment conducive to effective learning.
Additionally, the program will include psychosocial support for the children, addressing their emotional and mental well-being which is often significantly impacted by displacement and trauma. This key support aims to help children cope with their experiences and integrate more effectively into their educational settings. To further bolster the quality of education, CRS will provide substantial support for teacher training. This training aims to equip educators with enhanced skills and resources necessary to effectively teach and support refugee students, who often present unique educational and emotional needs. The full approach seeks to ensure that children in Busuma camp receive both academic instruction and the necessary emotional care to thrive, thereby providing a holistic educational experience.
CRS's Long-Term Commitment
The meeting between Angeline Ndayishimiye and Jude Marie Banatte occurred on Thursday, June 25, 2026, to discuss the ongoing partnership. Catholic Relief Services (CRS) has maintained a significant and consistent presence in Burundi for many years, indicating a sustained engagement within the country. This long-term commitment supports various initiatives across different sectors, including the current focus on education for Congolese refugee children. The organization's enduring involvement in Burundi aligns with its broader regional objectives in Central and West Africa, where it works to alleviate poverty and promote human development. This continued presence notes CRS's dedication to supporting the Burundian community in achieving its development goals.
National Vision Alignment
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and the Fondation Bonne Action « Umugiraneza » are pooling their resources and capabilities to enhance educational opportunities for Congolese children residing in Busuma camp. This collaborative effort aims to provide tangible improvements in the learning environment for these refugee students, ensuring they have access to the quality education they deserve. The partnership's initiatives are specifically designed to contribute to Burundi's overarching national vision. This vision outlines the country's ambition to become an emerging nation by 2040 and a developed country by 2060, reflecting a forward-looking strategy for progress. The alignment with these national goals shows the commitment of both organizations to support the long-term development aspirations of Burundi while addressing immediate educational needs of a vulnerable population. By investing in the education of refugee children, the partnership contributes to building a more resilient and educated future generation within Burundi.
