The Batwa are an Indigenous minority in Burundi, representing less than 2% of the population. Historically excluded from land ownership, education, and healthcare, they continue to face extreme poverty and social marginalization. In Murenda village, Makebuko Commune, AKI supported 90 Batwa families by installing energy-saving stoves to reduce firewood consumption and the risk of household fires.

By using energy more efficiently, the need for firewood is reduced by 50%, which cuts both deforestation and CO₂ emissions in half, while increasing CO₂ sequestration by 50%. Households also save 50% of their energy costs, while the local economy is strengthened through jobs in stove construction. At the same time, the quality of life and health of users improves.

Brother Remegie from AKI’s local partner, the Ordre Saint Camille, coordinated the construction of the energy-saving stoves and stayed among the Batwa for one week during implementation. He reported that the community lives in fragile huts and relies on open fire cooking, often leading to accidents. Due to deforestation, less wood is available, so families have to travel longer distances to collect enough firewood.

“This project gave the Batwa group hope,” said Brother Remegie. He added that to achieve sustainable development, we must ensure the inclusion of marginalized groups like the Batwa.

AKI’s work demonstrates how small, inclusive actions can make a meaningful impact on the lives of marginalized communities.

This project is implemented with financial support from the State Parliament and the State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg through the Foundation for Development Cooperation Baden-Württemberg (SEZ).