Since spring 2021, Iriba-Brunnen e.V., in cooperation with a partner organization from Burundi, “Association Raphael,” has been developing actions to combat poverty and promote the social integration of children with disabilities. The Raphael Association from Burundi is dedicated to the health of mentally disabled children in villages.
“People with disabilities make up about ten percent of the world’s population, making them the largest minority on Earth. They are particularly overrepresented in poor regions of the Global South and disadvantaged families.”
The fundamental principle of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), “Leave no one behind,” is explicitly mentioned in the introductory declaration of the SDGs. It particularly addresses people with disabilities and recognizes the guidelines of international human rights treaties, such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Poverty and discrimination lead to disability, and disability, in turn, leads to poverty and discrimination. Therefore, sustainable development is only possible if people with disabilities are included.
- Visit of the partner by the chairperson of Iriba-Brunnen to Burundi, Bubanza region, in December 2023.
On December 28, 2023, the chairperson of Iriba-Brunnen, Josee Mukanshimiyimana, visited the Raphael Association in Burundi to get an overview of the partner’s work. She observed how, despite challenges, much was being done for children affected by mental disabilities. The association also supports families through non-medical means, such as activities for the mothers of the children, including sewing projects, vegetable cultivation, and chicken farming.
In the picture, you can see the children with disabilities who are supported by the Raphael Association. On the left is the chairperson of the Raphael Association, Mr. Andre Masumbuko, along with the visitor, the chairperson of Iriba-Brunnen e.V.
2. Visit of the Raphael Association from Burundi to Münster in August 2022
On August 13, 2022, Iriba-Brunnen e.V. from Münster celebrated the meeting with its partner organization from Burundi, “Association Raphael.” On that day, Iriba-Brunnen e.V. focused on questions of social sustainability, health for all, and promoting partnerships. We gained a deeper understanding of the situations faced by children with disabilities and their parents in Burundi, who are supported by our partner organization, “Association Raphael.”
This celebration took place in the hall of the Paul-Gerhardt-Haus in Münster. With the expert discussion, we aimed not only to raise awareness but also to take concrete steps toward sustainable development and an inclusive society. We sought and continue to seek individuals who share our vision and are committed to a better future for all.
Among the participants were representatives from various institutions and individuals, including Dr. Jean-Gottfried Mutombo from the Office for Mission, Ecumenism, and Global Responsibility (MÖWe), Kajo Schukalla from the Advisory Board for Development Cooperation of the City of Münster, Ismet Nokta from the One World Forum Münster, and Nestor Ndizera, a representative of the Burundian diaspora in Germany.
The content of the event was presented by the honored guests from the board of the Raphael Association. Mr. Andre Masumbuko, the chairperson of the organization, gave a presentation in which he outlined the results of their work in Burundi as well as the structural challenges in this East African country regarding the needs of people with disabilities and their families. Their work involves the active participation of families and those affected, which requires extensive support. This organization, based in the small town of Bukinga in Burundi, advocates for the needs of children with mental disabilities in the region. In addition to awareness campaigns for families and friends, the organization offers support services for children with disabilities. Their approach to social therapeutic interventions is based on the actual needs of the community.
Other Objectives of the Event
- To introduce the people of Münster to Burundian culture and raise awareness of the SDGs, focusing on Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 17 (Partnerships).
- To raise awareness in the Münster community about the situation of children with disabilities in Burundi.
- To initiate partnerships to support children with disabilities in Burundi.
- To connect actors from Europe and Africa, specifically from Germany and Burundi, in line with the SDGs, including Goal 17.
In the picture, you can see Ms. Immaculée Hoffmann, co-founder of the Raphael Association from Burundi, Dr. Jean-Gottfried Mutombo from the Office for Mission, Ecumenism, and Global Responsibility (MÖWe), and the chairperson of Iriba-Brunnen, Josee Mukanshimiyimana.
On the following Monday, August 15, 2022, the German Federal Minister for Development, Svenja Schulze, invited the Iriba-Brunnen association and their guests from the Raphael Association to another meeting dedicated to all initiatives and associations.
The Federal Minister said: “Germany has a special responsibility in global cooperation – as a bridge-builder and supporter. As Development Minister, just as in my previous role as Environment Minister, my focus is on preserving our livelihoods, fostering good development prospects, solidarity, and justice. It must be our goal to enable a good life for all people in the world.“
