With more than 60% of its population under the age of 30, Burundi’s future hinges on empowering its youth to lead and thrive economically. In response to a growing culture of dependency and lack of initiative among many young people, ALARM-Burundi hosted a powerful one-day workshop on Servant Leadership and Economic Self-Dependence Through Small Projects in Rugombo Commune on 27th June 2025.
The workshop brought together 35 young participants and aimed to shift mindsets from passive expectation to proactive leadership and economic responsibility. Under the guidance of ALARM-Burundi’s Country Director, Rev. Dr. Innocent Iyamuremye, the session focused on redefining leadership through a biblical lens and encouraging youth to identify and implement community-based micro-projects.
Workshop Highlights
The training was designed around three dynamic methodologies:
- Interactive presentations
- Q&A sessions
- Group work and discussions
Participants explored their individual strengths, discussed community assets, and brainstormed fast-track projects that could bring transformation to their localities.
Projects Born from the Workshop
The energy and creativity among the youth resulted in the formation of four specialized groups, each tasked with launching tangible, community-impacting initiatives:
| Group | Project | Feasibility Study Deadline | Target Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men | Modern Fish and Chicken Farming | July 20, 2025 | October 15, 2025 |
| Women | Sale of Black Charcoal & Modern Chicken Breeding | July 20, 2025 | August 1 & November 1, 2025 |
| Young Men | Dry Cleaning Services | July 20, 2025 | October 1, 2025 |
| Young Women | Vegetable Farming | July 20, 2025 | August 1, 2025 |
These projects are more than business ideas—they are seeds of transformation. They symbolize a shift from dependency to dignity, and from expectation to action.
As we continue our mission of equipping the next generation across Africa, we invite you to support this life-changing work.
