Salesians focus on environmental education, youth empowerment

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Eswatini, through the Salesian Planning and Development Office, took part in the Eswatini International Trade Fair with an eco-friendly stand set up in collaboration with “Urban Organics” and the University of Eswatini.

The stand was visited by His Majesty King Mswati III and the Bishop of Manzini, Father José Luis Ponce de León, who expressed their appreciation for the Salesian ecological initiatives. The Eco-Ubuntu project has installed hydroponic growing systems in eight schools, earning interest from government departments, businesses, nongovernmental organizations and educational institutions.

A Salesian explained, “The initiative forms part of a holistic vision of ecology that combines environmental education, sustainable agriculture and youth empowerment, inspired by Pope Francis’ Laudato Si. Salesians have been working in Eswatini for over 75 years through parishes, schools and the Manzini youth center.”

Manzini Youth Care was established in the 1970s and provides services to youth who are marginalized. The services include free primary school for children who have dropped out of school due to poverty, two vocational training centers for older youth, residential care for children who previously lived on the street and a drop-in school for children when they first come in off the streets. Manzini Youth Care also serves the communities surrounding Manzini to help residents improve their living standards, sanitation and food security.

The people of Eswatini face immense challenges including poverty, chronic food insecurity, HIV/AIDS and a climate that is often unpredictable. According to the World Bank, an estimated 63% of the population lives below the poverty line, and about 29% lives below the extreme poverty line. The HIV/AIDS prevalence of 31% of the population is among the highest in the world and life expectancy has fallen to approximately 49 years.

Salesian missionaries work to meet the most basic needs while providing education to youth in need. With education, youth can find and retain employment and in turn give back to their families and communities.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – eSwatini – The Salesians at the International Trade Fair with a project on integral ecology

Manzini Youth Care Facebook

Salesian Missions – Eswatini

World Bank – Eswatini