Commune Matana aims to provide access to drinking water across all its localities, a critical initiative designed to improve public health and well-being. This ambitious goal was outlined by Jean Bigirimana, the administrator's advisor for water, energy, and quarries, who is directly involved in overseeing these key projects. Speaking to 'Le Renouveau du Burundi' on Monday, July 6, 2026, Bigirimana detailed the full efforts underway, which include the strategic installation of water points in high-traffic areas such as communal centers and bustling markets.
Bigirimana noted a significant achievement from the previous year. "In December 2025, with the support of Amazi Water, we completed three boreholes equipped with 23 taps in Matana town's main gathering places," Bigirimana stated, emphasizing the immediate positive impact on residents. He added that, as a result of these installations, residents now access water without difficulty, a marked improvement from previous conditions. Beyond water provision, the commune actively provides public toilets and places waste bins in various locations to facilitate hygiene promotion and combat insalubrity. Bigirimana expressed an aspiration for even broader coverage, wishing for "at least two public standpipes in each sub-hill," noting that current results are significant as work continues to ensure a water point is available every 200 meters. This systematic approach shows the commune's commitment to widespread access and improved sanitary conditions.
Expanding Water Infrastructure
The expansion of water infrastructure is a core component of Matana Commune's strategy. In December 2025, three boreholes equipped with 23 taps were successfully installed in the main gathering places of Matana town, a project made possible with vital support from the organization Amazi Water. These new installations have dramatically improved water accessibility in densely populated areas. Commune Matana is continuing its efforts to serve localities that do not yet have access to water, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to equitable distribution. To achieve this, the commune actively mobilizes financial partners, key for extending the water supply network to all areas that are still lacking this essential resource. In regions where conventional water delivery presents geographical or logistical difficulties, the commune implements innovative solutions, such as water adductions through developed springs, ensuring that even remote areas can benefit. The ongoing work is meticulously planned to ensure the availability of at least one water point every 200 meters across the entire commune, thereby guaranteeing convenient access for all inhabitants.
Enhancing Sanitation Facilities
Parallel to its water initiatives, Matana Commune is making substantial strides in enhancing sanitation facilities. Public toilets are being systematically developed in areas housing markets within Matana Commune, addressing a critical need for hygiene in commercial hubs. As part of these full efforts, all cattle markets in the commune now feature public toilets, a significant step towards improving public health in these often busy and challenging environments. To combat insalubrity and promote a cleaner living environment, waste bins have been strategically placed in several locations, particularly in the commune's centers, where foot traffic is highest. These installations aim to significantly improve public hygiene and streamline waste management processes. Around the central market, waste bins have also been specifically installed to facilitate more efficient waste collection, ensuring that refuse is properly contained and disposed of. These collective measures contribute substantially to improved sanitation infrastructure across Matana, fostering healthier communities.
Context and Future Plans
The overarching goal of the water and sanitation initiative in Commune Matana is to enable inhabitants to protect themselves against epidemic diseases. These concerted efforts are specifically designed to reduce the risk of outbreaks of diseases such as Ebola and Covid-19 among the population, safeguarding community health. The commune recognizes the vital link between clean water, proper sanitation, and disease prevention. Looking ahead, the planning for continued development is strong, with additional locations already identified for new installations. These planned developments are slated to occur during the upcoming 2026-2027 budget year, indicating a sustained and strategic expansion of infrastructure. This ongoing investment shows the commune's long-term commitment to further enhance public health and hygiene across Matana, ensuring a healthier future for all its residents.