Doing For Themselves

One exciting aspect of this work is what the Burundians are doing for themselves. When our team members arrived in July ’08 to help prepare for the arrival of the container, Dr. Elisee had already implemented several changes and improvements including:

Covered cement walkways w/benches for patients
Cabinets in rooms for patient belongings
Sinks installed in exam rooms
On-site maintenance staff doing many physical plant improvements
A large, new storage building constructed
Two new large outside toilets constructed
New patient kitchen with 3 showers behind it

In addition to these physical improvements, there are other exciting things to note:

Dr. Elisee has been chosen by the government to be the Medical Director for the Gitega district, and given a vehicle to use in the role.
A Swiss organization is considering funding an AIDS treatment center at the hospital.
The maternity ward at Kibimba is known and respected throughout the country.
9 pastors completed the chaplaincy training course taught by Willard & Doris Ferguson, and there are 2 on-site chaplains at Kibimba.
The hospital staff, led by Dr. Elisee, meets each morning for devotions & prayer together.
There is a positive atmosphere, pride in their hospital and their accomplishments.