For the last few years Burundi has consistently been ranked the "Hungriest Country in the World" by the World Food Program. As one of the poorest countries in the world, 90-95% of Burundians spend less than $2 on food per day. Over 60% of the population is chronically malnourished and disease is rampant. After a decade long civil war Burundi has struggled to stabilize and rebuild, but there are people doing some amazing and inspirational work to help resolve hunger and bring economic development to this beautiful country.
When our family was in Burundi in 2014 we met Evariste, a Burundian man who is working to get high yielding Friesian milk cows into the hands of poor farmers and families. The traditional long horned Ankole cows of Burundi only produce about 1 liter of milk daily and require extensive grazing. Young children are often put in charge of grazing the cattle, which in turn, keeps the children out of school. But the more robust Friesian cows don't require grazing and can produce over 10 liters of milk daily. Over 400 Friesian cows have now been imported from Tanzania and families and villages are being revitalized. Read more about it on their website here and watch the video below
This is one of the programs your supporting when you donate towards my upcoming cycling "Tour du Burundi." 100% of your donation goes to support the development work in Burundi and is tax deductible. I'm paying my own way and my own expenses. Here's the donation page, it is quick and easy to donate: https://www.youcaring.com/greatlakesoutreach-769532
My departure is now only 7 weeks away and I would love to see your support!
Hank
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