In the remote, mountainous farmlands of Burundi, one of the world's poorest nations in East Africa, access to medical care is a luxury few can afford. Often, residents from surrounding areas embark on arduous journeys in search of treatment, highlighting the dire need for accessible healthcare services in the region.

In 2018, amidst this backdrop of scarcity and struggle, Craig and Vanessa embarked on a life-changing journey. Leaving behind their comfortable lives, they relocated to Burundi with a profound mission – to serve the community and make a tangible difference in the lives of its people. Drawn by their passion for humanitarian work, they joined the dedicated team at Kibuye Hope Hospital, under the support of Serge.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape, Kibuye Hope Hospital stands as a beacon of hope for the Burundian people. More than just a medical facility, it serves as a hub for healing, education, and community engagement. The hospital's primary focus lies in training local medical professionals, empowering them with the skills and knowledge needed to address the region's healthcare challenges.

Craig and Vanessa's role at Kibuye Hope Hospital goes beyond their professional duties. While Craig contributes his expertise to the hospital's infrastructure development projects, Vanessa channels her energy towards community outreach initiatives, particularly in the realm of agriculture. By leveraging the land's resources, they aim to foster sustainability and self-sufficiency within the local community, creating lasting impacts that extend far beyond the hospital walls.

At the heart of Kibuye Hope Hospital lies a deep-rooted commitment to Christian values and teachings. Guided by principles of compassion and service, the hospital's staff members work tirelessly to provide holistic care to every patient who walks through its doors. Through their unwavering dedication, they embody the spirit of hope in the face of adversity, offering solace and support to those in need.

In a region plagued by poverty and hardship, Kibuye Hope Hospital stands as a testament to the power of resilience and solidarity. Through their collaborative efforts, Craig, Vanessa, and the entire team at Kibuye are rewriting the narrative of despair, transforming it into one of hope and possibility. As they continue to serve on the frontlines of healthcare in Burundi, their story serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the profound impact that compassion and commitment can have on the world around us.

Ministry Overview:

Craig and Vanessa Bielema, who met at ECHO in 2011, share a passion for serving God through engineering and agricultural education. After marrying in 2014, they pursued opportunities in cross-cultural ministry, eventually moving to Burundi in 2018 with their daughter, Wren. They joined the Serge team at Kibuye Hope Hospital in 2022, where Craig supports infrastructure projects and Vanessa focuses on family and community engagement through agriculture, eager to witness and contribute to God's work in Burundi.

Prayer Request:

Pray for Craig and Vanessa as they advance the expansion of Kibuye Hope Hospital, not only bringing quality healthcare to more people in Burundi and surrounding communities but also ministering to the local community through their outreach efforts.