YBSP brings together over 200 vulnerable children and their mothers to celebrate Christmas at the Musée Vivant of Bujumbura

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For the 12th edition of Christmas for Children “Noel Pour les Enfants”, the organization Youth Building in Synergy to End Poverty (YBSP) offered, on December 21st, a moment of joy and solidarity to more than 200 children and their mothers at the Musée Vivant of Bujumbura. This celebration reflects YBSP’s strong commitment to child protection and the strengthening of family resilience.

Children’s laughter echoed through the pathways of the Musée Vivant, accompanied by traditional and modern dances. The music group “Les Jumeaux” energized the crowd, transforming the event into a true celebration of unity, hope, and togetherness.

The event also featured powerful testimonies from women beneficiaries, highlighting the transformative impact of YBSP’s integrated development approach. When Marcelline Harerimana, one of the beneficiaries, took the floor, the emotion was palpable.

“Before discovering YBSP, I was living in despair. Thanks to this organization, I learned how to read and write, and today I can read messages on my phone. Through the trainings I received, I am now working to provide a stable and dignified life for my family,”
she shared, emphasizing how literacy and skills training changed her life.

In his speech, Elvis Arakaza, Executive Director of YBSP, emphasized the organization’s holistic and family-centered approach, particularly in supporting street-connected children and those living in extreme poverty:

“YBSP supports the education and protection of children living in vulnerable conditions. However, our experience has shown that lasting impact cannot be achieved without actively involving parents—especially mothers—in development and empowerment programs.”

In line with this vision, 12 women benefited from comprehensive capacity-building trainings throughout 2025, covering literacy, reproductive health, birth spacing, sewing skills, conflict management and prevention, and entrepreneurship. These interventions aim to strengthen household stability, improve women’s economic autonomy, and enhance the overall well-being of children.

The success of this event was made possible thanks to the continued support of YBSP’s official partners, particularly Football Helps, whose long-standing collaboration has significantly contributed to the organization’s activities across education, child protection, sports, and community empowerment. Their sustained commitment has played a vital role in strengthening YBSP’s programs and expanding their impact on vulnerable communities.

In his remarks, Arthur Mugisha, Legal Representative of YBSP, expressed his deep gratitude to all partners and supporters of the organization. He particularly acknowledged the valuable contribution of the event’s sponsor, Innocent Niyongabo, CEO of Carrington Coffee, and the event’s godmother, Ms. Daniella Nziyumvira, Founder of the IRAGI Foundation, for their dedication to social impact and solidarity with vulnerable families.

The event also benefited from the support of public institutions through their representatives, who praised YBSP’s initiatives and emphasized the strategic importance of investing in children and families as a foundation for achieving Burundi’s Vision 2040–2060.

Through this celebration, YBSP reminds us that Christmas is not only a time for sharing, but also a stepping stone toward a future where every child and every mother can dream, learn, and grow in dignity.