Nawe Niwige

About Us

Welcome to “Nawe Niwige” meaning “Learn too” or “Even you can study” is a non-profit association founded by three young indigenous Batwa who got a chance to study at different universities in the neighboring country of Rwanda through scholarships. By using a part of their stipends, they thought of supporting their younger siblings who struggle to access education due to a lack of school materials and fees back in their home country of Burundi. The program began by supporting six (6) children, and now expanded to four one (41) children, of which the majority are young indigenous Batwa communities, and others from less privileged and marginalized people.

Our mission is to address the educational needs of marginalized, impoverished young indigenous people in Burundi and to ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through our educational assistance program, we provide support from early childhood to higher education, offering school materials, paying for school fees, and ensuring that the learning environment is welcoming and supportive for indigenous students. With this, our long-term goal is to reduce at least 15% of Batwa illiteracy plus other marginalized people and create potential leaders by 2035.

We collaborate with village elders and local authorities to encourage and support young indigenous people to enroll in schools, and we work with school administrators to monitor the learning environment and provide additional support where needed. Our community-based initiatives serve as entry points for education, offering training courses to educate indigenous people about their legal entitlement to education and fostering a sense of self-awareness and inclusion.

At Nawe Niwige, we believe that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. With your support, we can make a real difference in the lives of marginalized, impoverished young indigenous people in Burundi, especially those from indigenous Batwa communities.

We welcome donations, volunteers, and support in spreading the word about our work. With your help, we can expand our programs, support more children, and create a more inclusive and equitable society. Join us in our mission to provide education to young indigenous people in Burundi and create a brighter future for all.

Our Voice Matters, Your Help Contributes.

Why choose us?

We don't stand for fame, but to represent the talented, marginalized and less privileged youth especially in indigenous community whose voice haven't heard, and whose potentials haven't been put on use.

Every successful civilization is formed from a foundation based on education. Education has a crucial role in changing our world, from providing people with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and develop the leaders of tomorrow.

Unfortunately, the Batwa indigenous people in Burundi face terrible circumstances as they are internally displaced and lack access to land for farming, which has forced them to rely primarily on traditional pottery making. This skill passed down from their elders is no longer sufficient to support their livelihoods, leaving them without access to basic social services like education, political participation, and healthcare.

To address this critical situation, Nawe Niwige seeks to raise awareness among the younger generation of the Batwa community, both male and female, by enhancing their education. The co-founders of the organization, from different universities, have personally witnessed the miserable situation of the Batwa people and refuse to stand idly by. They use their stipends to provide hope and encouragement to their younger brothers and sisters in Burundi, demonstrating their commitment to uplifting their community and nation. The organization recognizes the importance of individuals who are willing, able, and capable of helping to boost its mission. By working together and providing support, Nawe Niwige hopes to create a brighter future for the Batwa community and raise awareness of their struggles in the wider world.

Girls

Boys

All supported kids

500

Targeted Kids

Call To Action

Working together, we can improve the lives of indigenous children and enable them to realize their full potential. So please join us in our effort to support Burundian indigenous children receiving a basic education! You can get involved by: making a donation, Sharing our mission and vision with your friends and family, and encouraging them to get involved too.

Do it now