Action for Peace and Development , Burundi

Landry in action

Landry’s organisation Action for Peace and Development (APD) has set up workshops in four universities in Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi. They target the most radical students – those with a history of rebel involvement or polarised political affiliations – to openly discuss their views for the future of Burundi. The debates are tense. But AYC uses personal testimonies of people who have been attacked and lost family members during the civil war to bring home the true cost of war, so that these future leaders of Burundi will not let the same happen again.

Axelle, 25, was forced to witness the killing of her relatives during the Civil War. She is now a participant in AYC’s study circles and determined that the same shall not happen again.

We must stop destroying each other, and face adversity, even though it’s difficult, and then take courageous decisions that can lead to a positive change - Axelle, AYC Participant

In May 2010 Burundi faced elections and polarised political views began to surface. AYC organised protests for peace on bikes and motorbikes across the centre of Bujumbura. Over 1,000 people took part and pledged personal responsibility for a safer future for all Burundians. Watch the video here. They are curently continuing their work with universities.

You can support Landry and students like Axelle to build a peaceful future for Burundi.