Burundi is a landlocked, mountainous country located in the Great Lakes region of Africa. Slightly larger than neighboring Rwanda, it is comparable in size to the area of West Michigan.
Since gaining independence in 1962, Burundi has been a place of unrest. Years of brutal ethnic violence and political corruption preceded the country's current political, social and economic landscape, which includes a newly-elected government, widespread disease and extreme poverty. In addition to having one of the highest population densities in Africa and one of the highest incidences of AIDS in the world, Burundi is also one of the poorest economies on the planet.
The [Z] initiative in Burundi is a key expression of our mission, which includes working for measurable change among the oppressed. By partnering with Turame Bank to provide microfinance loans, our goal is to increase income for the poorest 30% of the economically active in Burundi. Additionally, partnership with Turame involves integrated peace-building initiatives and AIDS education, which bring hope for greater health and peace as clients and their families take steps out of poverty.