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ANGOLA: Families increase farm production

Salesian missionaries provide 150 families with seeds and fertilizer

ANGOLA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have provided 150 families with corn seeds and fertilizer as part of the “The Mwenho Usupoka ‒ Life in Abundance” agriculture project taking place in Munda, Huambo, Angola.  The initiative was made possible thanks to the contribution of the Angolan company I.E.P. With this project, families will be able to increase the production of their farms to better be able to feed their families as well as sell the yield for additional income.

“Providing seeds and fertilizer helps farmers to expand their farms and have a better yield from their crops,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Along with providing the supplies directly, Salesians also help to show farmers better ways to tend to their farms for the greatest production of food for their families and community.”

In Angola, Salesian missionaries began work with street children during the 1990s when groups of children fleeing the war flowed into the capital. Today, long after the war has ended, children are still fleeing their homes for a variety of reasons. Many run away from home because of parent neglect, some as a result of abuse and others because they are thought to be sorcerers or witches who bring misfortune to their families.

“The educational opportunities provided by Salesian programs can be truly life-changing for children,” added Fr. Baek. “Through educational programs, both youth and adults have an opportunity to learn and develop the skills to become self-sufficient, supporting their families and communities.”

Salesian missionaries in Angola also continue to rebuild infrastructure that was damaged during the civil war that lasted from 1975 to 2002. Much was destroyed during the conflict including schools, medical buildings and churches. Living within the communities in which they work, Salesian missionaries have been perfectly positioned to respond to local needs and lead projects for community betterment.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Angola – Salesian agricultural project helps over 150 families increase their productive capacity

Salesian Missions – Angola

UNICEF – Angola