Helping the People of Burundi — A Personal Mission of Love and Return

Lonnie Matthews
Jun 19
2 min read

a note from Grandmaster Matthews

I want to share something meaningful happening this summer. Many of you may not know this yet, but I will be traveling to Burundi with my dear friend Stephania and her family. We will leave on August 8th and return on September 17, 2026. This will be Stephania’s first time returning home in 34 years since she fled the country during a time of great danger.

Burundi is a small, beautiful country in East Africa that has endured decades of hardship.

For many years, political instability and ethnic conflict caused deep suffering and forced countless families to flee for safety — including Stephania, Azor, and their children, who left more than 21 years ago. Although Burundi is more stable today and working toward peace, it remains one of the poorest countries in the world. Many families still struggle with limited access to food, clothing, and basic resources. Because of this, even small acts of generosity can make a life‑changing difference.

I met Stephania, Azor, and their children when they first arrived in Cedar Rapids, and over the years they have become like family to me. Stephania and I made a promise to each other that we would travel to her homeland when she received her U.S. citizenship. That dream — that promise — is now becoming a reality. To be invited to return with them, to see her homeland through her heart, to walk the places she once walked, and to witness the life she had before fleeing, is an honor I cannot fully express.

Her husband, Azor, will also be returning with us. He will proudly show me the church he founded before he, too, had to flee for safety. Several of their children and spouses will be traveling with us, making this a deeply emotional homecoming for their entire family.

This trip is not about tourism. It is about people, dignity, and connection.

I want to be very clear: I am not asking for help to fund my travel.My trip is already covered.

What I am asking is for your help in blessing the people of Burundi directly.

Every dollar donated will go toward:

Clothing purchased locally in Burundi
Food for families in need
Small gifts for children
And when appropriate, modest cash gifts given directly to individuals or families

Nothing will go to me.

Nothing will pass through an organization.

Every contribution will go straight into the hands of the people.

My personal goal is to raise $2,000–$3,000 to convert into Burundian francs and distribute during the trip. In Burundi, even a small amount can make a life‑changing difference.