The Cité des Anges is a recreational centre constructed during the first years of Maison Shalom’s existence that also houses income-generating activities. It was inaugurated in 2003, in the midst of the civil war. From the outset, the Cité des Anges has been an extraordinary symbol. During the long years of the war, it was a beacon of hope for countless young people from Maison Shalom. Today the civil war is over, but the Cité des Anges continues to be a synonym for hope, even in time of peace. It constantly reminds the children that they, too, are entitled to enjoy cultural and leisure activities opening them to the world. The Cité’s daily management and the activities it runs are the responsibility of the young people working there.
The cinema
In terms of culture, the Cité houses the Cinéma des Anges and a library. A cinema ticket costs 600 Burundi francs (about 0.50 euros). On Saturdays, children can see the movies for free. The projection room is also used by the nearby schools. It is much appreciated as a teaching tool, especially for learning French.
The library
The library has a large selection of books for children, adolescents and even adults. In exchange for an annual membership fee of 6,000 Burundi francs (about 4 euros), library users can borrow an unlimited number of books.
The pool
The yard at the Cité des Anges also has a swimming pool. Entrance costs 15,000 Burundi francs per month. Swimming classes have been organized to encourage more people to use the pool.
A multipurpose room
A multipurpose room situated next to the pool can be rented by community members for events (weddings, meetings, concerts, etc.). The Cité des Anges team can, on request, decorate the room and fit it for sound.
Income-generating activities
The Cité des Anges is also home to a number of commercial activities, such as a beauty salon and a sewing workshop. They help some young people start out after they have completed their vocational training. There is also a computer room for training in software programmes such as Microsoft Word and Excel. The aim is to match course times with the province’s school programmes.
REMA Hospital admits on average 15 premature babies for neonatal treatment each month. The babies are transferred from hospitals in eastern Burundi. In some cases, two premature babies have had to share one incubator. The Hospital currently has only two incubators in working order! Save the lives of these delicate infants by donating 5 incubators and 2 resuscitation tables.
