💔 A Life Cut Short

💔 In Loving Memory of Bariki 💔

Dear Valued Partner

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Bariki, aged 20, a young man who had been part of our Centre of Hope family for the past five years.

Originally from Burundi, Bariki’s childhood was marked by unimaginable hardship. At just 8 years old, he was trafficked into Tanzania and forced into labour until the age of 14. Thanks to the intervention of the Collective Calling Director in Tanzania, Rebecka, who was informed of his situation, Bariki was rescued and brought into our care.

At the Centre of Hope, he found love, safety, and the chance to rebuild his life. Over the years, he blossomed into a joyful, hardworking, and resilient young man. Through an apprenticeship in a local garage, and with the support of a partner organisation who provided him with his own set of tools, he learned to repair motorbikes and cars. He was thriving - renting his own room, faithfully working at the garage, and always returning to the Centre to say hello with his bright smile.

Bariki had reconnected with his parents back in Burundi and was saving money with the dream of visiting them soon. Sadly, that reunion never came. Last Monday, Bariki was tragically caught in a road accident as an innocent passerby. After eight days of fighting for his life, he passed away from his injuries.

During his time with us, Bariki was baptised in a local church. It was this church that helped prepare and transport his body and give him a funeral, providing a great deal of needed support to Rebecka during this heartbreaking time. We thank them dearly.

We are heartbroken by this sudden loss. Bariki experienced so much love and joy in his years at the Centre, and his life, though short, was a powerful testimony of resilience, redemption, and hope.

Supporting Bariki’s final journey

Bariki’s passing brought hospital, transport, and funeral expenses of €1,300 - costs that were completely unforeseen and not part of our budget. Covering the CT scan, the long ambulance journey of 8 hours to the nearest hospital with a scanner, and his burial has been a heavy responsibility, but one we carried out with love.

We are so thankful for the kindness of those who stand with us in moments like this. If anyone feels moved to contribute toward these unexpected costs, please know your support would be received with deep gratitude. ❤️

Bariki’s story is one of light overcoming darkness, and though he is no longer with us, his smile and spirit will remain in our hearts forever. 🕊️

With gratitude,

Paul & Gemma Carr