Congo (Democratic Republic) - MissionNewswire

DR CONGO: Close to 600 people receive healthy meals through Rise Against Hunger’s partnership with Salesian Missions

MissionNewswire — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:30:09 +0000

Shipment provides meals to 5 programs

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Oeuvres Maman Marguerite, a network of Salesian centers located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, received a shipment of nutritious meals through a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, a nonprofit that helps underserved people worldwide achieve food security and resilience.

The shipment provided meals for feeding programs at a prison, a hospital, an orphanage, a retirement home and a training center. Close to 600 people were fed during the first half of 2025.

A Salesian noted, “Children used to go hungry in the centers, but today we have largely responded to these challenges. Food not only serves as nourishment for our young people but also as a means of keeping them in our homes and centers.”

Médine is one of the young women who received the meals. She lives in the Visitation House in the Kafubu neighborhood, an area on the outskirts of Lubumbashi. She ended up at the center after her parents’ divorce, bouncing between parents and spending a few days on the street. Médine was then directed to the Salesian center.

She credits the morning meal with giving her the energy to get through the entire day of training without getting tired, allowing her to participate fully in her school activities. All of the students eat twice daily.

The nutritious food has allowed her to improve academically and make significant progress. Compared to when she lived with her father, Médine’s health has drastically improved since arriving at the center. She no longer gets sick frequently and maintains a strong immune system.

Camel Kajila Ntambu, a school social worker, said, “Now that the youth are better fed in school, they are out of school less. We have come to understand that providing adequate nutrition was a key factor in minimizing absenteeism.”

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than 100 years, ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning, while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in these countries were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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DR CONGO: More than 500 students graduate from Don Bosco University

MissionNewswire — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 08:58:43 +0000

Education helps students gain self-sufficiency

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) More than 500 students graduated from Don Bosco University in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, in the 2024-2025 academic year. In September, the school celebrated the graduates from the four faculties of computer science, financial management and engineering, human and social services, and theology.

A Salesian explained, “The celebration brought together students and their parents, family members, teachers, members of the university administration, as well as representatives of the local ecclesiastical and religious authorities. Among the graduates, for the first time, were students from the theologicum and post-novitiate, highlighting the recent expansion of the university as part of its educational and religious mission.”

The Salesian added, “This education that the students receive will help them find and retain stable employment. This will help them with self-sufficiency and put them in a position to aid their families and communities.”

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than 100 years ensuring that children who are vulnerable are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Academic Degree Ceremony 2025 at the Don Bosco University in Lubumbashi

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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DR CONGO: Construction on new secondary school building begins

MissionNewswire — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 08:03:48 +0000

Funding also provided for entire Boscolac educational complex

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have begun construction on a new secondary school building in the vulnerable neighborhood of Mugunga, on the outskirts of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*. Father Pascal Mumba Kati, director of the Boscolac community, led the symbolic laying of the first stone to mark the official launch.

This initiative responds to an urgent need for modern and accessible educational infrastructure for youth living in vulnerable conditions. Ongoing support of benefactors from the Italian association “Let’s Build a Smile!” provided funding for the new secondary school building as well as the entire Boscolac educational complex. Funding also included staff salaries and the sustainability of both educational and social programs.

“The construction of this school building would not have been possible without the financial support of the Italian association,” said Fr. Mumba Kati. “For years, this international solidarity organization has been committed to improving the lives of young people in Goma. Once again, they have shown love and compassion for Congolese youth.”

This new structure adds to the many other projects that the Italian association supports in Boscolac and the surrounding region, including a modern and well-equipped primary school, a vocational training center offering courses in sewing, hairdressing, beauty, masonry, and computing, and a health center and school infirmary.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Laying the First Stone of the New Secondary School Building in Boscolac: A New Step Forward for Youth Education in Mugunga

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians respond to devastating humanitarian crisis

MissionNewswire — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 08:53:43 +0000

Whole families experiencing hunger daily

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are working to provide support for people living in the province of North Kivu in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo*, which is on the brink of humanitarian collapse. With more than 21.2 million people in need of assistance in the country and 7 million internally displaced, the conflict is devastating lives, communities, and futures.

Salesians report that in the villages adjacent to Goma and the Don Bosco Ngangi Center, suffering can be read on the faces of those who have survived. Whole families, returning to their destroyed land after months in the refugee camps, face daily hunger. They gather wild vegetables, eat once a day, and sleep on the ground.

According to data collected by the Salesian International Volunteer for Development (VIS), 70% of families consume less than two meals a day and for many, food stocks do not exceed five days. Soaring prices, up to 35% in Goma and Bukavu, have excluded two out of three families from local markets.

Housing is also a crisis within a crisis with more than half of the families living in precarious and overcrowded conditions including the 84% who do not have mattresses or blankets and 75% who do not have access to basic products for their personal hygiene.

Children have been dramatically affected with their schools destroyed. As a result, some youth think of joining armed groups or turning to street trading. “I don’t see my future in school. I would like to learn a trade and help my family,” said a young displaced person.

Salesians with the Opera Don Bosco Onlus Foundation in Milan, Italy, are living alongside the affected communities. Their goal is to alleviate suffering, rebuild hope and preserve human dignity. A Salesian noted, “There is a need to for food aid, to support local livelihoods, such as agriculture and trade, and to protect women and children, the first victims of this tragedy. North and South Kivu are asking for solidarity during this challenging time.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Millions of lives threatened by hunger and displacement. Crisis worsens, solidarity urgently needed

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries respond with emergency aid for flood victims

MissionNewswire — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:18:55 +0000

3 Salesian communities impacted by flood waters

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have been responding to a devastating flood that occurred in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, on June 14. Heavy rains killed 29 people and damaged buildings. The Salesian communities located in Masina, Kingabwa and Lukunga were impacted by the flood waters.

In Masina, the wall of the St. Thomas Aquinas community collapsed. In Lukunga, the wall of the Don Bosco center fell, and the Marie Auxiliatrice community in Kingabwa was seriously flooded.

A Salesian noted, “The floods damaged infrastructure, destroyed houses, and endangered the lives of many of the young people and families attending Salesian facilities. Entire families lost their homes, their belongings and, in some cases, their loved ones. They are now homeless, destitute and exposed to the health risks associated with flooding.”

Salesians in Masina, Kingabwa and Lukunga have schools, oratories, youth centers, and shelters for children and youth. Faced with this emergency situation, Salesians want to help the victims and restore the safety of the Salesian infrastructure and living conditions for the affected populations.

Mission Don Bosco, the Salesian Missions Office in Turin, Italy, has been working to address some of the needs. Salesians have launched a project to provide emergency aid, including food, hygiene kits with soaps and medicines, mattresses, sheets, and blankets for temporary shelters. There will also be psychosocial support provided for bereaved and traumatized families. Following these immediate services, Salesians will work to create income-generating activities and cooperatives to help the affected families become self-sufficient.

In addition, Salesians will secure and restore damaged schools, training centers and oratories with sustainable materials and construction techniques adapted to the climatic conditions of the place. The goal is to ensure continuity for thousands of youth, guaranteeing access to education and offering prospects for the future.

Mission Don Bosco has indicated, “This is not just a response to a crisis, but a direct investment in the security, resilience and future of vulnerable communities in Kinshasa.”

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ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Devastating flooding in Kinshasa. The Salesians, also affected, in the front line of emergency response

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian graduates receive professional starter kits in their chosen trades

MissionNewswire — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:11:58 +0000

Initiative aims to help young people find path to work

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian graduates in vocational trades in Democratic Republic of the Congo* received professional starter kits for their careers in painting, masonry, tailoring and plumbing at the completion of their training. An event to provide these graduates with the kits took place at the Provincial House of the Salesian Vice-Province Mary Help of Christians (ACC) in Masina, near Kinshasa.

The tools will help graduates continue their trades, integrate into society, and earn a living from self-employment or working for someone else. The training programs are held as a result of collaboration with the Salesian Mission Office of Bonn, Germany.

A Salesian noted, “Most of these graduates came to the Salesian Vocational Center in Masina from Pakadjuma, a deprived area in Kinshasa’s Limete commune, where youth are at risk of unemployment, crime, drugs and prostitution. The initiative aims to help young people the find a path to work and dignity.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – Job Integration Kits Delivered to Young Technicians

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: More than 1,200 people receive healthy meals through Rise Against Hunger’s partnership with Salesian Missions

MissionNewswire — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 08:47:00 +0000

Shipment provides meals for 6 programs

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Oeuvres Maman Marguerite, a network of Salesian centers located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, received a shipment of nutritious meals through a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, an international humanitarian organization growing a global movement to end hunger.

The shipment provided meals for six programs at a prison, a hospital, orphanages, a hospice for the elderly and training centers. More than 1,200 people were fed during the second half of 2024.

One of the recipients is Mechak Kahozi, aged 14, who is attending the Bakanja Ville Welcome House. Kahozi had lived with his father, stepmother and aunt until he was mistreated at home and took to the streets. He has been living at the Salesian house since 2023. Kahozi is back in school and looking forward to a brighter future. He would like to become a mechanic and have his own garage. He’d also like to be a mentor to children like him.

Kahozi said, “Since I started eating Rise Against Hunger meals, I feel good and healthy. I really enjoy it. It’s important for me because it gives me good health, and we don’t get sick frequently anymore. I like to sit next to everyone I live with when it’s time to eat dinner.”

Father Emmanuel Kiza, director, noted, “We provide comprehensive services for youth in need, including material goods, food, clothing, health support, schooling, and spiritual and moral support. The need for food is a major challenge, so Rise Against Hunger meals help our organization to continue its work.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: More than 5,500 youth take part in Salesian Games

MissionNewswire — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 08:30:57 +0000

Salesians celebrating 50th anniversary of event

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The City of Youth Salesian Center, in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, opened the 50th anniversary of the Salesian Games. This year’s event was held under the theme “Young People, in Brotherhood and Hope, We Celebrate Half a Century of the Salesian Games.” The event brings together thousands of youth each year from Salesian institutions, the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, diocesan parishes and private schools.

More than 5,500 athletes are participating across 264 teams and 26 clubs, competing in soccer, basketball, volleyball, and handball. The event also features dance teams, cheerleading and acrobatic competitions, boxing matches, karate tournaments, and even fashion clubs, reflecting the cultural diversity and richness of the occasion. There are 127 schools represented.

Bishop Gaston Ruvezi, from the Diocese of Sakania-Kipushi, presided over the Catholic Mass marking the official opening of the games. The opening ceremony was attended by numerous religious and political authorities.

With competitions scheduled every weekend until May 1, culminating in the grand finals of the tournaments, this special edition of the games promises to be unforgettable. The Salesian Games, which integrate sports, culture, and educational values, remain a unique Salesian tradition dedicated to the holistic development of young people.

The event organizers said, “The Salesian Games are truly a wonderful space where the spirit of play and fraternity reign supreme. If the games continue to thrive after 50 years, it is because the spirit of Don Bosco still lives within them, guiding and inspiring young people.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Salesian Games in Central Africa: A Tradition of Brotherhood and Hope

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians report uncertainty in Goma

MissionNewswire — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 08:47:15 +0000

Salesians assisting more than 30,000 displaced people

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Several Salesian centers were damaged in the early February violence in North Kivu Province, northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo*. After days of violence in Goma, rebels who invaded the city declared a unilateral ceasefire. The Salesian Mission Office in Madrid is hopeful that the ceasefire lasts and dialogue between the parties can begin.

A Salesian said, “They established a provisional government and demanded the resumption of activities and the return of the city to normal life. However, the city is still in a state of emergency with no schools, security, or airport, and the population is experiencing great insecurity. We are still waiting and live in great uncertainty, since the concern is that this truce is nothing more than a strategic pause.”

The Congolese government has not yet provided official figures, but the death toll could exceed 5,000 people. In addition, thousands of people had to flee their homes to save their lives. The Salesian noted, “The scene in Goma was terrifying, bullets and gunshots could be heard all over the city.”

Salesians have been working in Goma since 1981 and have vocational training centers, primary and secondary schools, and a home for children in vulnerable situations. In addition, they are assisting more than 30,000 displaced people who have taken refuge in the Don Bosco Ngangi Center. Other people who are displaced remain sheltered in the settlements of Rusayo and Kanyaruchinya.

Some Salesian educational facilities were damaged. The Salesian explained, “The classrooms at the Don Bosco Vocational Center were hit by bullets that pierced the roofs. In addition, the computer lab was destroyed by a bomb. Now neither the roof nor the computers are there. The neighborhood we are in, near the airport, has suffered heavy clashes in recent days as well.”

The Salesian Mission Office calls on the conflicting parties to engage in dialogue to achieve lasting peace. It also warns of the high risk of displaced children suffering violations of their rights. The Salesian concluded, “The Don Bosco Ngangi Center is ready to receive unaccompanied minors because their parents are missing or have died.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Misiones Salesianas

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – The city of Goma still unsafe

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries support recently displaced people in Goma

MissionNewswire — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:28:42 +0000

Goma taken over by rebel troops on Jan. 27

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are working to support more than 30,000 people in a camp in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*. On Jan. 27, the city of Goma was taken over by rebel troops that have been surrounding it for months. More than 2,000 people joined the 3,500 families who were already being cared for in the camp that was set up in the soccer fields of the Salesian center a year ago.

A Salesian explained, “Goma is closed. There are no schools and the shops are not open. Everyone is waiting to see what might happen.”

The Salesian added, “There are more than 30,000 people, mostly women and children that have come to us for safety. More spaces are already being prepared at Don Bosco Ngangi for the possible arrival of displaced people, and thousands of people have entered and occupied spaces in the soccer fields and also inside the building.”

Among the many Salesian organizations that support the Salesians in Goma is the Salesian Mission office in Madrid, Spain, which is committed to helping provide support for those displaced.

Luis Manuel Moral, director of the Salesian Mission office in Madrid, said, “The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a country where more than 2.8 million children suffer from acute malnutrition. We are also Salesian missionaries who are helping in the Kanyaruchinya settlement, which today has more than 75,000 displaced persons.”

The country has already suffered more than 30 years of fighting involving more than 122 rebel groups fighting for control of minerals. The country has 80% of the world’s reserves of coltan, which is necessary for the batteries of electronic devices and electric cars. The population is suffering a continuous humanitarian disaster that worsened at the end of 2022 and that today leaves almost 7 million people displaced and more than 25.4 million in need of aid to survive.

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than 100 years ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Misiones Salesianas

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – ‘Thousands of people take refuge in the mission after Goma has been invaded’

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: New girls’ boarding school opens at Don Bosco Ngangi Center

MissionNewswire — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 08:57:26 +0000

New facility part of comprehensive center for education

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesians have launched a new girls’ boarding school at Foyer Anuarite within the Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*. The new facility will house 56 girls and provide a safe and educational environment while promoting vocational training and awareness of girls’ rights. The work is in collaboration with Maison Marguerite, another center operating in the same complex.

The project was financed by Don Bosco Bonn in Germany and is part of the Afrique Centrale 23-122 initiative, which aims to support the socio-economic reintegration of vulnerable girls, particularly those affected by the ongoing conflict between the army and rebel factions in the North Kivu Province. Many girls and young women have faced gender-based violence as a result.

The opening ceremony included a Catholic Mass celebrated by Father Gauthier Tshibangu, provincial delegate for Central and East Africa, who in his homily expressed his joy at seeing the enthusiasm of the girls and all the participants. He rejoiced at the completion of this long-awaited building.

Fr. Tshibangu also prayed for the benefactors, especially those from Don Bosco Bonn, who made this project possible, while also acknowledging the efforts of the other partners. After Mass, there was a tour of the building, followed by the blessing of the premises. The day continued with a photo session and recreational games for all the youth.

“Don Bosco Center Ngangi is one of the most comprehensive Salesian organizations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Built on the grounds of a school and sports field, the center has grown to provide vocational training, refugee housing, rehabilitation for child soldiers, and programs for those needing nutritional and medical care.”

The center also provides aid and services to the many refugee camps that exist in the areas surrounding Goma. Refugees, children who are orphans or have been abandoned, and victims of disaster are among the school students who rely on the center. For most of them, it’s also the only place where they receive a nutritious meal each day.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Opening of the girls’ boarding school at the “Foyer Anuarite” at the Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Centre in Goma

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Medical dispensary expands to meet growing needs

MissionNewswire — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 08:01:08 +0000

Funding from ‘The Heart of Elisa in the Heart of Africa’ project honors memory of Elisa Claps

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian International Volunteering for Development (VIS) is strengthening the medical dispensary at Don Bosco Ngangi Center in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*. The medical dispensary provides essential medical care to thousands of people every day. Due to recent escalation of conflict in the country, emergency and medical needs have multiplied, including increased malnutrition of youth under age 5 and care for pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding.

Through “The Heart of Elisa in the Heart of Africa” project, VIS is supporting the expansion to meet growing demands of the dispensary. The project honors Elisa Claps, a teenager from Italy who was murdered in 1993. Her parents set up the project to honor Claps, who wanted to become a doctor and work in Africa.

Through the project, the Claps family sent the funding for a dedicated nutrition program for boys and girls under the age of 5, which was launched in October 2023. The project is also funding a new waiting room and new medical machinery to strengthen the kinds of care offered.

A Salesian said, “The waiting room where patients wait to be treated every day will be renovated and equipped, and will bear the name of Elisa. Thanks to the project, those facing malnutrition will also be able to receive enriched protein food as well as basic medicines and milk, if necessary.”

Michela Vallarino, president of the VIS, said, “We are honored and grateful that our organization can be a tool through which to bring some light to the story of Elisa Claps, more than 30 years after her death. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, one of the poorest and most unstable countries in the world, where VIS has been operating since 2002, her memory will support the health and wellness of youth and their families in Goma.”

Two events, one in Potenza, Italy, and the other in Goma, were held on Sept. 12 to honor the donation. Elisa’s brother, Gildo Claps, said, “I really wanted to be there in person, but what matters is that Elisa’s dream finally comes to life. Her memory and her desire to help others is being kept alive through this donation. In Goma, Elisa’s heart beats again after silence for 30 years.”

The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the largest countries in Africa with a population of more than 102 million people. Nearly 70% of the population live in conditions of extreme poverty with limited access to health services. There are armed militias engaged in conflict exacerbating already challenging conditions.

In Goma, the capital of North Kivu, there are clashes between the regular army and militias. Don Bosco Ngangi Center is located nearby and has set up a camp for people displaced by this conflict. It is overcrowded and conditions are difficult. Cholera and hunger are the most troubling with 90% of young children suffering from malnutrition.

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

ANS – Italy – “The heart of Elisa in the heart of Africa”. A VIS healthcare project in tribute to the memory of Elisa Claps

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians supporting displaced people during mpox health emergency

MissionNewswire — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 08:33:23 +0000

International emergency declared due to increase in mpox cases

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries working and living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo* are responding to two emergencies. They have been providing aid and support for people who have been impacted by the ongoing violence in the country. Now, Salesians are faced with growing cases of mpox.

On Aug. 14, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an international emergency due to the increase in cases of mpox. In 2024, there have been more than 15,000 cases, and more than 500 people have died from this disease in Africa, most of them in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The scientific community warns that the increase is worrying, especially due to the high number of infections among children. According to WHO data, more than 10,000 children up to the age of 15 have been infected in 2024, and 39% of those infected are children under the age of 5.

The mpox epidemic represents a great risk for the country. A Salesian missionary working with displaced people in Goma explained, “Those who are displaced and living in the Don Bosco Ngangi camp are exposed to this new mpox epidemic. They live in overcrowded conditions and the hygienic conditions are not adequate. Our doctors warn that these are people with an already very weak immune system and that an epidemic could have really dangerous effects.”

Four cases of the infection have already occurred where the Don Bosco Ngangi Center, which oversees the camp, is located. The Salesian noted, “Practices similar to those implemented to combat COVID-19 must be put in place everywhere to avoid contagion. The epidemic emergency has already been declared, but many people are not yet aware of it and lead their daily lives normally. Awareness and prevention work are needed.”

Salesian missionaries manage 33 centers in 14 cities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. With a focus on education, they operate primary and secondary schools, vocational training centers, kindergartens for the youngest, and care and recovery centers for children living on the streets and girls in vulnerable situations. Salesians also work with displaced populations and in areas where people live in extreme poverty.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – The dramatic situation in the country, affected by violence, displacement and the increase mpox cases

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Nearly 600 people receive healthy meals through Rise Against Hunger partnership with Salesian Missions

MissionNewswire — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 08:25:50 +0000

Shipment provides meals for 5 programs, including orphanages

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Oeuvres Maman Marguerite, a network of Salesian centers located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, received a shipment of nutritious meals consisting of rice, soy, dehydrated vegetables and vitamins, through a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, an international humanitarian organization growing a global movement to end hunger.

The shipment provided meals for five programs, including a prison, a hospital, orphanages, a hospice for the elderly and training centers. Close to 600 people were fed during the first half of 2024.

One of the recipient programs is the Sr. Emmanuelle House, located in Kasungami in the annex commune of the city of Lubumbashi. It is a private plot of land with a house that is home to 20 youth. Sarah Ngoy Kabedi, age 16, is one of the residents at the Sr. Emmanuelle House. She is in seventh grade and is behind in her studies due to a family situation and a lack of funding for schooling. That has not stopped Kabedi from having dreams for the future.

She said, “I dream of being a hairdresser and beautician, having a great salon, working for myself and earning a living. Above all, it is a passion for me to take care of other people’s hair and style it in addition to doing makeup, which is very popular for different ceremonies and special occasions. I can make a good living. One day, I might also learn to style men’s hair to capitalize on all potential clients.”

In regard to the meals she received, Kabedi said, “I like to eat meals with my friends with whom I live. I know that the meals contain vitamins which impacts my health and also my concentration at school. I am healthy today thanks to the Rise Against Hunger meals. Every time I consume it, it always has a positive impact on my health and my current body weight testifies to this.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian shelter promotes family in workshop

MissionNewswire — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:24:13 +0000

Event part of initiatives offering better future to youth

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Gahinja Welcome House, part of Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo,* organized an educational outing for 50 children who are living on the street. The event, made possible thanks to the financial support of Don Bosco Bonn in Germany, is part of a series of initiatives offering a better future to youth who are vulnerable and at risk of social exclusion.

During the event, youth took part in walks, dances and songs, and the Eucharistic celebration presided over by Father Dieudonné Sande Mutonkole, director of the Don Bosco Ngangi. An awareness-raising session was then held based on the theme, “Individual, behavioral and social characteristics that promote resilience and family adaptation.”

A Salesian noted, “The youth were encouraged to consider being with family as the ideal environment for their development and to cultivate parental love and acceptance. Some of these children living on the streets can go home to their families. Salesians do provide support, education and shelter for other street children who do not have this option.”

The day ended with a game of volleyball and a shared meal among the youth, a symbol of fraternity and solidarity.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – An educational day for street children

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians provide aid to people displaced by conflict, violence

MissionNewswire — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 08:59:48 +0000

Salesians remain vigilant as conflicts continue

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesians with the Assumption Province of Central Africa in the Province of North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, continue to provide support for those who have been impacted by the ongoing violence in the country. Salesians report that two conflicts are aggravating the already precarious humanitarian situation.

Over the last two years, more than 1.5 million people have been forced from their homes in the Goma region due to clashes between rebel gangs as well as the Congolese army and auxiliary forces associated with it. Fighting intensified at the beginning of 2024.

The United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) noted at the end February: “This crisis is characterized by the abundance of armed actors in the conflict, mass flight and a growing number of people in need of humanitarian aid.”

A lesser-known conflict is raging around Beni, north of Goma in an area bordering Uganda. In early June, 150 civilians were killed by armed groups of fundamentalists, who for several years have been hiding in the immense equatorial forest of the region.

Salesians in the region are working to provide support. There are more than 3,500 families living on the grounds of Don Bosco Ngangi. Salesians have also been providing food and non-food items for those displaced and dependent on humanitarian aid. Salesians have distributed corn, soy and sorghum to the children, as well as offered games, hot meals, school and medical care.

In addition, Salesians have a medical dispensary at Don Bosco Ngangi and plan to offer schooling to the displaced children and vocational training education for the older youth. The goal upcoming is to offer training for social workers on how to best help unaccompanied minors as well as economic support for families to be able to start small income-generating activities.

Salesians in the country are calling on the international community to help with donations and humanitarian aid to help alleviate the challenges the displaced people have faced.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – “The Congolese people, by their nature, are a people of hope”

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Women, minors learn rights

MissionNewswire — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 08:26:05 +0000

Salesian missionaries provide education to raise awareness of rights of women and minors

Salesian missionaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in the Democratic Republic of the Congo*, led by Father Carlos Balezi Kabumba, recently concluded a series of educational sessions aimed at raising awareness of the rights of women and minors. The training was held for children at the Salesian House in Gahinja and for girls from the Maison Marguerite Center.

At the end of the course, participants received certificates of completion. Salesians thanked the Salesian Mission Office in Bonn, Germany, for financial support and its commitment to the protection of the rights of women and children in this conflict-torn region.

Pascal Bauma, project manager, noted, “This initiative has been useful to assess the situation of many children living on the street, especially in the city of Goma. Many young people, due to difficult family situations, are forced to take to the streets. This problem is also aggravated by the influx of people displaced by the war in and around Goma.” Over the last years, Salesians have been dedicated to caring for displaced children, who are living at Salesian houses in the region.

Salesians in Goma have described the difficult situation. Streets that allowed food supplies to be brought in are no longer accessible. A serious famine looms for all the inhabitants. The population continues to live under extreme duress.

Salesians in the region are working to provide support. There are more than 3,500 families living on the grounds of Don Bosco Ngangi. There were another 1,000 at Don Bosco Shasha until the rebels moved in. Now it is nearly empty. Salesians have also been providing food and non-food items for those displaced and dependent on humanitarian aid. Salesians have distributed corn, soy and sorghum to the children, as well as offered games, hot meals, school and medical care.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – Raising awareness among the children at the Salesian houses in Gahinja and “Maison Marguerite” on the rights of women and minors

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Displaced people receive healthy nutrition through partnerships

MissionNewswire — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 08:24:42 +0000

Camp Don Bosco now home to 21,000 internally displaced people

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) People who have been internally displaced and are living at Camp Don Bosco, located at the Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, had access to healthy nutrition thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Feed My Starving Children, a nonprofit Christian organization committed to “feeding God’s children hungry in body and spirit.”

The donation, sent in partnership with Flexport.org, which managed the logistics and sponsored the shipping costs for two containers, helped 2,780 people over three months in 2023. Salesian Missions will partner with Flexport.org for additional upcoming humanitarian aid shipments.

“The humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo does not receive much attention and resources globally. Being able to support this underfunded emergency response and help those in dire needs is precisely why we established the Flexport.org Fund,” said Kristen Czapar Dohnt, head of Flexport.org. “Partnering with Salesian Missions to transport this life-saving food is a true honor.”

The war between a rebel group and the loyalist FARDC army has been going on for nearly two years. Camp Don Bosco was set up in the fall of 2022. Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center welcomed the displaced people and allowed them to use a plot of land that was once used for youth sports activities. Most of the now 21,000 people camped on the land have been displaced from Rutshuru and Nyiragongo.

Camps for displaced people, such as Camp Don Bosco, are overcrowded and lack adequate infrastructure. Living conditions are extremely precarious, with limited access to clean water, sanitation, food and health care. Disease, malnutrition and other health problems spread rapidly in such conditions.

A Salesian noted, “The highly nutritious food from Feed My Starving Children has been warmly welcomed by the families living in the camp. The families know that they are getting much-needed nutrition and are able to provide healthy meals for their families. Families with children testify that this food is highly nutritious and facilitates a quick recovery of malnourished children.”

Malnutrition is high. War and forced displacement have disrupted people’s livelihoods. Agricultural land has been abandoned leading to increase in poverty, food insecurity and dependence on humanitarian assistance. People in the camp are suffering psychological trauma impacting their emotional well-being.

A Salesian explained, “Food donations go a long way in helping this population remain fed and have a little hope for the future.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Feed My Starving Children

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: 600 youth receive meals through Salesian Missions, Rise Against Hunger

MissionNewswire — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:15:30 +0000

5 programs receive meals, including shelter for at-risk girls

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Oeuvres Maman Marguerite, a network of Salesian centers located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, received a shipment of meals consisting of rice, soy, dehydrated vegetables and vitamins thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, an international humanitarian organization growing a global movement to end hunger. The shipment provided meals for five Salesian centers, feeding 600 youth during the second half of 2023.

Magone Girl’s House, which provides shelter for at-risk girls who are unable to be cared for by their parents, was one of the programs served. The network of three girls’ homes cares for young women and enables them to study in the city’s primary and secondary schools.

The Magone Girl’s House faces serious financial issues. It struggles to ensure food security, sufficient health care or the cost of school fees. In addition, there is a lack of drinking water in the neighborhood so the goal is to drill a well in the future to obtain drinking water on-site.

One of the young women who received the food aid is Naomie, age 15. Naomie lived with her biological mother and adoptive father until her parents died on the same day. She was then sent to live with her adoptive father’s family, who lived in the city of Likasi. Naomie was treated terribly and accused of witchcraft. She was rejected by the family who abandoned her in the city streets of Lubumbashi.

During this time, she met a social worker from the Mother Marguerite Home, who took her to the shelter in Bakanja Ville, a Salesian center for street children. She lived there for about a week until she went to the Magone Girl’s House.

Naomie was enrolled in a seven-month literacy program where she was able to learn to read and write after not going to school as a small child. She now continues her studies with others who live in the community. Since Naomie started eating the Rise Against Hunger meals, she has regained strength and can complete her household chores without getting fatigued.

“I want to become a strong, responsible, and hard-working woman to help my little brothers and sisters finish their studies,” Naomie said. “Since eating the Rise Against Hunger meals I have regained my health and strength. This is important for me to be able to study. I also feel stronger and healthier than before.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Radio station loses equipment in storm

MissionNewswire — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 08:27:26 +0000

Community radio station requires funding for new transmitter

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Radio Don Bosco Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of the Congo* lost some of its most valuable equipment during February rainstorms. Its 2,000-kilowatt transmitter was severely damaged by lightning, which hit the facilities and destroyed the motherboard circuit. The failure was so severe that it had a considerable impact on the signal, making it impossible to transmit for several days.

This loss has compromised broadcasting programs and the stability of what is the first Salesian radio station in Central Africa, which will celebrate its 10-year anniversary in April. Father Maciej Makuła, member of Salesian social communication and contact person in the sector for the Africa-Madagascar region, witnessed the event during his visit to the country. He noted the difficulties because it is a community radio station and lacks funding.

Given these challenges, Radio Don Bosco Lubumbashi is launching an appeal for donations from other Salesian broadcasters around the globe to help buy a new transmitter or access another one, even if used. The station wants to continue enriching the culture of youth in Lubumbashi and the surrounding are. The goal is to expand to other locations including Goma, Bukavu, Kalemie and possibly throughout the national territory.

A Salesian noted, “Radio Don Bosco Lubumbashi is also looking to improve its technical skills. They are looking for a range of specialties to help the station, including computer specialists, content creators, social network specialists, influencers, electronic engineers, online or print journalists, and consistent donor support. If the radio station sees the growth and development of these specialties, they will be more technologically advanced and have greater social impact on the population.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – A decade after its foundation Radio Don Bosco Lubumbashi launches an appeal for solidarity to ensure its survival

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Displaced people offered shelter, support

MissionNewswire — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 08:52:09 +0000

Salesians respond to needs due to continuing clashes in Masisi territory

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are providing shelter and support for those who have been displaced by recent fighting in the Masisi territory in Sake, near Goma, in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo*. Clashes between the regular army and the rebels have intensified, causing more than 3,000 people to flee the area to seek shelter and safety.

Salesians on the ground report that the humanitarian situation is serious and risks getting worse. Bombs have fallen in Sake and shots can be heard throughout the area. The situation has left people without food or water. Due to poor hygienic conditions, people are facing cholera.

“Along the Sake-Goma road, toward Mugunga, we see children, young and old, sitting, tired, they don’t know where to go,” explained Pascal Bauma, from the Salesians of Goma Project Office. “They were displaced people who had previously set their sights on Sake. Now, following the clashes, they were forced to leave Sake and head toward Goma. This is the second time these people have had to flee for safety.”

Given the ongoing clashes in the region, there is no more space available in the refugee camps. Those who are displaced must find alternative living arrangements.

“We cannot yet estimate the number of people who have moved from Sake to Goma because the situation is ongoing,” added Bauma. “Thousands of families have been forced to leave. There are those who stayed in Shasha and Sake because they were afraid of living as a displaced person. Others stayed in Mugunga waiting for the situation to improve so they can quickly return home.”

In Goma, people who have been displaced are living in difficult conditions. Streets that allowed food supplies to be brought in are no longer accessible. If things do not change, a serious famine looms for all the inhabitants of Goma, reported the Salesians. The scarcity of some foodstuffs is already noted, and the population is living under extreme duress. The added worry is that the city will fall into the hands of the rebels.

Salesians in the country are calling on the international community to help with donations and humanitarian aid to help alleviate the challenges the displaces have faced.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – More violence in the east. Salesians at the service of the needy

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries open new health center

MissionNewswire — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:41:34 +0000

Building dedicated as symbol of love and hope

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have opened the Gabriele Confortini Health Center in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*. The new health center will offer essential medical services for poor families and provide prevention programming aiming to improve the health of the community, especially children and women.

An opening ceremony took place on Feb. 3 in the presence of donors from Italy. The center is being managed by the general directorate of Afia Don Bosco Polyclinic and was made possible by the Confortini family, originally from Verona, Italy, who financed the construction work. The building was dedicated to the memory of Gabriele Confortini, who died after a long illness at the age of 13.

Confortini’s aunt, Anna Maria Coelli, sold her apartments shortly before she passed away in order to finance the construction of a health center in memory of her nephew. The two shared a close relationship and she wanted to save the lives of poor children in a country that desperately needs access to quality health services. Monica and Linda Confortini, Gabriele’s mother and sister, and Dario, Anna Maria Coelli’s husband, took part in the opening ceremony of the center.

Father Guillermo Basanēs, superior of the Assumption of Mary Salesian Province of Central Africa, expressed his sincere thanks to the Confortini family and urged the nursing staff to take care of patients with great love.

Representing the local civil authorities, the area health director, said: “I was called to this opening to verify that this center meets the required standards. Even before it opens its doors, I have no doubts about its credibility knowing that the Salesians of Don Bosco are responsible for it.”

The building was built by the Indian company A One Builders. Father Guislain Kaya, administrator of the Afia Don Bosco Polyclinic, publicly paid tribute to the company for completing the work on schedule.

At the closing of the ceremony, Father Mathias Amani, the province’s social communication delegate, said, “This center represents much more than a medical infrastructure. It is a tangible symbol of love, international solidarity and hope. It’s a sign imprinted in the hearts of those who have known Gabriele and those who will benefit from the care offered by this center.”

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Opening of the Gabriele Confortini Health Centre at the Ruashi Youth House

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Refugees receive support

MissionNewswire — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 08:28:14 +0000

Veteran Club Don Bosco provides aid for refugees in Bulengo camp

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Veteran Club Don Bosco in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, celebrated its ninth anniversary with efforts to give back and support the local community. The group consists of men and women of all ages, including the elderly, adults, young adults and children. It started at the Salesian oratory at the Industrial Technical Institute of Goma and was managed for many years by Salesian Brother Honorato Alonso.

The day of giving back began with a Catholic Mass followed by a photo session. Then, the group moved to Bulengo, one of the largest refugee camps just outside of Goma. The camp is the result of a long and complex war that has been raging in the country. People survive thanks to local help and support by international organizations. Health and safety conditions are lacking and youth do not have opportunities to go to school and learn.

Veteran Club Don Bosco provided aid for these marginalized people. Each member of the group contributed money, food, clothes and anything that would be useful to those living in the camp. On Nov. 12, the group gave the refugees what they had collected, and the beneficiaries thanked them for their support.

A Salesian noted, “It was a successful day of giving back to the local community. At the end of the visit, the whole group returned to the Industrial Technical Institute in Goma, to share a moment of reflection and fraternity. After, there were recreational activities and lunch. At the end of the day, members of Veteran Club Don Bosco expressed the hope that what they did would inspire others to do the same.”

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – The first nine years of the Vétéran Club Don Bosco: a group, a conviction, a commitment

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Afia Don Bosco Hospital receives donor funding for new generator

MissionNewswire — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 08:11:17 +0000

Hospital experiences frequent power outages

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Afia Don Bosco Hospital, located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, has a new generator to supply the hospital with consistent electricity thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The hospital, which runs 65% of the time on a generator, experiences frequent power outages, which impact its ability to provide proper medical care for patients.

The hospital provides medical care for the large population in Lubumbashi and its surroundings. Patients of all ages rely on the hospital services, including Salesians and families being served from the Salesian center in the area. The old generator that had been in use for some time recently broke, leaving the hospital in a precarious situation. With the new generator, the hospital will run more effectively and efficiently.

Afia Don Bosco Hospital has 156 beds and specialized services including radiology, an emergency department, general medicine, internal medicine, pneumology, gynecological and obstetric, dermatology, dentistry, kinesiotherapy, pediatric, general surgery, neurosurgery, psychiatry, ophthalmology, oncology and more.

Dr. Christian Mbuya, the medical director at the hospital, said, “We send out heartfelt thanks to benefactors, who are supporting Afia Don Bosco Hospital. This donation is important for the health and well-being of each patient. Thanks to this electrical supply, it will reduce the risk linked to the lack of power in this health and hospital environment.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians care for displaced families

MissionNewswire — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 08:51:31 +0000

Conflict has left more than 6.2 million people displaced

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries at Don Bosco Shasha, Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center and the Salesian Industrial Technical Institute in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, are continuing to provide support for those who have been internally displaced in the country. Conflict has left more than 6.2 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to the United Nations refugee agency UNHCR.

The country is battling conflict fueled by competition for the region’s rich resources including diamonds, cobalt, gold and oil. The March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group launched an offensive on Oct. 20, 2022, and seized a large part of the Rutshuru territory, displacing people who had fled to the region to escape conflict between the M23 and Congolese armed forces. With the takeover, these people had to flee again.

As a result, the Nyiragongo Territory, bordering the city of Goma, has welcomed thousands of those who have been internally displaced. Many are in the Kanyaruchinya Internally Displaced Persons camp. There has also been serious fighting in Masisi territory, where the towns of Kitshanga and Mushaki have fallen under M23 control. Rutshuru and Masisi are the main sources of food for the city of Goma, and as a result food prices are very unstable. Also, due to the vast numbers of displaced people, several other camps have sprung up. The situation has stressed humanitarian organizations that are already overstretched with their resources.

There are more than 25,000 families living in the camps at Kanyaruchinya, Don Bosco Ngangi, Don Bosco Shasha and Bulengo. Salesians are working to collaborate with other partners to better coordinate interventions at the local level. Many households in the various camps rely on the assistance of the Salesians, who provide food to displaced families as well as spiritual support.

A Salesian said, “The conditions of the camps are challenging. Thanks to donors though some families now have tarpaulins on their shelters. Increases in the cost of living have exacerbated the crisis, with food, fuel and other goods rising in price. Pregnant women, the elderly, people living with disabilities, and widows/widowers are finding it hard to get by in these conditions, having left everything behind in their homelands. The needs are enormous. The children need a space for games and for psychosocial care, helping them to deal with the trauma of the war. Salesians are already doing what they can to organize activities, but have yet to be able to provide these for all the children across the different camps.”

Salesians are also concerned about youth missing their education. Some children missed the 2022-2023 school year and it is very likely that they will miss the 2023-2024 school year. There is currently no hope of a return to their villages, where the security situation remains precarious. There is an urgent need for youth to be enrolled in either local schools or vocational training courses to reduce the risk of violence and exploitation. There is also a need for households to learn income-generating activities in order to reduce their total dependence on humanitarian aid, especially considering that not everyone has access to aid.

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

ANS – DR Congo – Helping Families Displaced by Conflict

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Students benefit from job kits

MissionNewswire — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 08:05:43 +0000

Kits give youth support as they finish courses

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Sixty youth attending the Vocational Training Center in Boscolac, located in Mugunga, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, were provided kits at the end of their cutting and sewing and cosmetic hairstyling training. The kits are part of a project known as AFC-22 implemented by the Salesian Eastern Delegation of the Central Africa Province planning and development office and financed by Don Bosco Mission based in Bonn, Germany.

In his address at the event where the kits were distributed, Father Carlos Balezi Kabumba, director of the development office, thanked benefactors on behalf of the youth and noted that the training they received will be beneficial to the entire society. Youth now have the skills for employment, which will aid welfare of their families and the entire community.

The ceremony was also attended by Father Pascal Mumba Kati, rector of the Boscolac Community, and Brother Honorato Alonso, outgoing head of the Boscolac Vocational Training Center, who encouraged youth to put the knowledge they have learned to good use and to spread the moral and spiritual values taught by the Salesians.

“Having the skills and tools for employment gives youth an opportunity to hit the ground running after graduation,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesians want to ensure that youth are able to gain long-term stable employment and become self-sufficient. Kits like these go a long way to ensure youth are starting out life with the right support.”

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Sixty young people trained in trades receive the Boscolac VTC vocational reintegration kit

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Donations keep youth in school

MissionNewswire — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:39:04 +0000

Students also benefit from donations for educational tools

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Youth in the Salesian community of Boscolac, located in Mugunga, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, have useful tools for their education thanks to Marineo Solidale, an Italian organization, and Poste Italiane, the Italian postal service.

Marineo Solidale has been supporting Salesian programs for several years. This year, Marineo Solidale is coming to the aid of youth in Boscolac community by paying their school fees. Youth at Maison des Jeunes in Lubumbashi have also had their school fees paid as well as benefited from sports uniforms, soccer balls and volleyballs. In addition, thanks to donor funding, youth at Maison des Jeunes have new welding stations, grinders, drills, clamps and many other useful items for professional training courses.

Both Maison des Jeunes and the Boscolac communities host professional training workshops, with courses on carpentry, welding, construction, cutting and sewing, hairdressing, and beautician skills. Salesians aim to educate youth so they can become employed and responsible citizens.

“We want to do our best by providing maximum assistance to our children,” said Father Pascal Mumba, a Salesian from the Province of Central Africa. “That is why we can only express our heartfelt thanks to Marineo Solidale for their help and to Poste Italiane, which sponsored this project to carry out these activities. Thank you for supporting the Salesian mission.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – International solidarity bringing aid and development: from Sicily to Central Africa

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Center in need of new water source

MissionNewswire — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:43:07 +0000

Water system unable to meet growing demand

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Muetu Don Bosco Center in the Makala neighborhood of Mbuji-Mayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, needs a new water source to meet the growing demand in the community, reported Mission Don Bosco in Turin, Italy. Founded in 1995, the Don Bosco Center provides services for 4,900 people.

With a population of 3 million people, Mbuji-Mayi is the second largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the capital of the Kasai Oriental province. Since 1990, the province has been experiencing widespread unemployment, unequal distribution of wealth, low agricultural production compared to demand and exploitation in the diamond extraction market.

Despite the wealth of mineral resources, the city is one of the poorest in the country. Close to 75% of people live on less than $0.50, a day and more than 80% of the population does not have access to health services, school education or water. The greatest difficulties are concentrated in the peripheral areas of the city, such as the district of Makala, where people lack a water source and are at risk of violence. Those accessing the center and others in Makala are forced to go in search of water in other regions, putting them more at risk.

Father Mario Perez, a Salesian missionary in Mbuji-Mayi, explained, “Most of the members of Mbuji-Mayi’s families are unemployed or survive on small earnings working in diamond mines or in agricultural fields more than 25 kilometers (approximately 15.5 miles) from the residence. In this area, almost all households do not have access to electricity or drinking water. Here the water, health and nutritional emergency is the horizon in which almost the entire population lives.”

Fr. Perez added, “During the rainy season, residents try to collect rainwater, but even in this period, due to the lack of infrastructure, they are unable to cover the family needs. During the dry season, they obtain supplies from the Bushimaie river, which is contaminated by very harmful chemical substances and fecal bacteria, and spreads numerous diseases such as cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, poliomyelitis and diarrhea, which is often fatal, especially for children under age 5.”

The Don Bosco Center currently has a water supply system that allows for 2,800 liters (approximately 740 gallons) of drinking water daily. Given the greater need, Salesians buy another 15,000 liters (approximately 4,000 gallons) of filtered water every day. In recent years, spending has become unsustainable and it does not guarantee they have water to meet the need.

The goal is to dig a deep well to provide water for the entire Salesian community and beyond. With the outbreak of another cholera epidemic that continues to claim victims every day, the implementation of this project is considered an urgent priority by the Salesians and by local authorities. The goal is provide a safe and sufficient water source to promote proper hygiene and allow for safe drinking water. This would also limit the risk of young women and girls searching for water.

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – A well for thousands of thirsty people

Mission Don Bosco

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians support people displaced by war

MissionNewswire — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 08:29:49 +0000

Don Bosco Shasha providing shelter and nutritional support

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have been providing support for people displaced by the fighting in the Democratic Republic of the Congo*. Since Feb. 10, 2023, Don Bosco Shasha has been sheltering people who fled to safety in the field of the primary school. Currently, displaced families are using the classrooms for shelter.

While Salesians are providing what they can, it has become increasingly difficult for the people living in the camp. Father Kizito Tembo, a Salesian priest at Don Bosco Shasha, explained, “In the camp, life seems to have stopped. They wake up in the morning not knowing what they are going to eat or how the day will end. Worse still is when it was raining. Families huddle around the fire to keep warm. The most vulnerable are pregnant women, the elderly, the sick and children.”

People are also getting sick on their long journey from their villages to Don Bosco Shasha and while in the camp. Fr. Tembo said, “After a long road of exile, those who had caught diseases along the way began to succumb. Children have become victims of cholera, measles and malnourishment. Pregnant women have miscarriages and others have stillbirths. Misery upon misery. Breastfeeding women do not have enough breast milk, which is a disaster for babies.”

Salesians are providing porridge for the children who are facing malnutrition and for the sick in the hopes that food will make them strong enough to fight their illness. Salesians are also trying to get youth back into school.

Fr. Tembo added, “We intend to give all the children the chance to go back to school with the other students at the Don Bosco Shasha primary school. We are also offering skill training for older youth who want to learn a skill for employment. But this recovery is slow, because our forces are too limited.”

Fr. Tembo calls on the international community to remember the plight of those impacted by the ongoing violence and the many who have had to flee with nothing more than the clothes on their backs.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Shasha

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Displaced children benefit from food support

MissionNewswire — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 08:05:57 +0000

Salesian missionaries addressing child malnutrition at camps near Goma

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the East Delegation of the Central Africa Province, in collaboration with the Salesian-run International Volunteering for Development (VIS), have been focused on providing food rations and other support for those who have been displaced and are seeking shelter at Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo.*

During June 2023, more than 500 children under age 5 and their parents received concentrated cereal porridge every day. In addition, 36 children under age 5, who are facing severe acute malnutrition, benefited from a substantial meal each day in addition to the daily porridge.

Toward the end of the month, 500 of the most vulnerable families — people with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and heads of larges families — received food assistance including maize flour, beans, vegetable oil and salt, as well as soap.

Salesians in Goma and the surrounding areas are supporting people who have been displaced. The conflict has left more than 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

Since the beginning of October 2022, more than 28,000 people have sought refuge from violence at Don Bosco Ngangi. Salesian missionaries, with support of volunteers from VIS, are supporting people as best they can. Those displaced are also turning to Don Bosco Shasha, located outside of Goma.

Father Carlos Balezi, emergency coordinator, said that Salesian assistance for those displaced was possible in close collaboration with VIS and the support of their partners as well as the Salesian Mission Offices in Bonn, Germany: Madrid; Turin, Italy and Salesian Missions USA, among others.

The team in charge of field activities, led by Salesian Brother Augustin Mupoyi, recently provided malnutrition screening and treatment for parasites for 271 children, including 161 girls from the Don Bosco Shasha site.

“Severe acute malnutrition is a clear public health problem especially among displaced people, weaned children, and pregnant and lactating women,” said Father Kizito Tembo, Salesian community leader in Shasha. “There are at least 420 families impacted by malnutrition currently in our camp that we are trying to provide support for at this time. This is not an exhaustive list and we believe there are many more.”

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

ANS – DR Congo – Intense humanitarian activities by Salesians in Goma Don Bosco Shasha centre for displaced persons

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians help combat child malnutrition in camps

MissionNewswire — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:18:35 +0000

People who have been displaced seeking shelter at Don Bosco Shasha, Don Bosco Ngangi

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are working to address child malnutrition in camps for those internally displaced in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.* Salesians in Goma and the surrounding areas are supporting people who have been displaced because of ongoing conflict. The conflict has left more than 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

Thousands of displaced people have settled on the grounds of Don Bosco Shasha with Salesians providing food and shelter. Those impacted by the war are also going to Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, where some 28,000 people are seeking shelter on the center’s grounds.

Recently, Salesians have provided additional food support. Don Bosco Ngangi Center in Goma distributed hot meals, milk and cookies to 500 displaced children. Father Carlos Belozi, economer of the East Delegation of the Central African Province, expressed his gratitude to the many donors whose generosity has helped these children who have been traumatized by war.

In addition, Salesian Emergency Coordination developed a new program to give porridge and a meal to children showing signs of malnutrition at Don Bosco Shasha. A Salesian noted, “We are doing our best with limited means. We have had an influx of people coming to the camp and we have limited supplies. Through the generous support of donors, we are doing all we can to provide shelter, nutrition and other necessities.”

Given the ongoing violence, Salesians are working on a more long-term solution for those who have been displaced and are launching projects to provide people with more support. The goal is to provide more provisions and psychological support to the people, including education for minors.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Distribution of hot meals for the World Day of the African Child

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: 300 displaced families provided food

MissionNewswire — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 08:16:33 +0000

Salesians at Don Bosco Shasha and Don Bosco Ngangi work to provide shelter, food and other supplies

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Mission Don Bosco, located in Turin, Italy, with the help of volunteers from the Salesian-run International Volunteering for Development (VIS), distributed food and soap to more than 300 families staying at the Don Bosco Shasha camp in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.* The food rations consisted of cornmeal, beans, vegetable oil and salt.

This distribution is part of ongoing humanitarian aid for the thousands of internally displaced people settled in camps in Goma and the surrounding areas. Salesians have been sheltering vulnerable people in the camps, including the elderly, those with disabilities, mothers and pregnant women, since the start of the fighting earlier in 2023.

The conflict has left more than 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to UNHCR – the United Nations Refugee Agency. Thousands of displaced people settled on the grounds of Don Bosco Shasha. Those impacted by the war are also going to Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, where some 28,000 people sought shelter on the center’s grounds.

A Salesian missionary said, “Salesians are doing everything they can to help those who continue to live in precarious conditions and who lose the hope of returning to their villages as each day passes. Peace has been slow to return and people are doing the best they can to keep safe.”

Salesians at both Don Bosco Shasha and Don Bosco Ngangi are working to provide shelter, food and other supplies to people in need. Supplies are running low as people are in desperate need of humanitarian aid. Salesians around the globe are doing the best they can in offering support, especially in the form of food aid.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Salesians help more than 300 displaced families in Don Bosco Shasha

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Displaced families benefit from food rations

MissionNewswire — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 08:04:59 +0000

Families are among those seeking shelter at Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries from the Central Africa Province, in collaboration with the Salesian-run International Volunteering for Development (VIS), distributed food rations to more than 300 families who have been displaced and are seeking shelter at Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo.*

Recipients of the food rations include the elderly, those with disabilities, pregnant women and lactating mothers. The rations for each family had bags of cornmeal, beans, vegetable oil, cooking salt and soap. The distribution took place in the multi-purpose hall of the AMANI center.

Salesians in Goma and the surrounding areas are supporting people who have been displaced because of ongoing conflict. The conflict has left more than 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

Father Guillermo Basañes, superior of the Central Africa Province, expressed his gratitude to all donors who have helped in the food ration donation. He said, “People of goodwill have joined this initiative to save lives.”

Given the ongoing violence, Salesians, with the help of VIS, are working on a more long-term solution for those who have been displaced and are launching a project to provide people with more support. The goal is to provide more provisions and psychological support to the people, including education for minors.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Salesians’ support for displaced people sheltered at “Don Bosco Ngangi” center continues; Provincial, also at front line

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Food rations provided to families at refugee camp

MissionNewswire — Wed, 24 May 2023 08:53:46 +0000

Camp lacks food, clean water, toilets and schooling, says Salesian

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries, through the Emergency Coordination for Displaced Persons, distributed food rations consisting of cornmeal, beans, cooking salt, vegetable oil and soap to 320 families in the Kanyaruchinya camp, north of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo.* The distribution was made possible thanks to the support of the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid.

One Salesian said, “The beneficiaries were the most vulnerable people in the camp, including the elderly, those with disabilities, mothers and pregnant women. This is the third time Salesians have provided vulnerable people in the camp with food and basic necessities. The last time was during a period of famine that hit the camp occupants earlier this year. The camp lacks food, clean water, toilets and schooling.”

This camp is the first and largest internally displaced persons camp in the Rutshuru and Nyiragongo territories. Despite being an officially recognized camp, assistance is sporadic.

This food distribution came a week after the one made at Don Bosco Shasha for those who have sought shelter there from the ongoing fighting in the country. Salesians in Goma and surrounding areas are supporting people who have been displaced because of ongoing conflict. The conflict has left more than 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to UNHCR – the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Thousands of displaced people settled on the grounds of Don Bosco Shasha with Salesians providing food and shelter. Those impacted by the war are also going to Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, where some 28,000 people are seeking shelter on the center’s grounds.

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Salesians from AFC-EST Delegation bring humanitarian aid to displaced people in Kanyaruchinya camp

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Students graduate with employable skills

MissionNewswire — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 08:19:27 +0000

Youth were once living on the street with no access to shelter or education

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Tuwe Wafundi School of Trades, part of the Don Bosco Center in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, provides education to homeless youth ages 17-22. These youth were once living on the street with no access to shelter or education. Salesians estimate upward of 6,000 youth, more than 1,000 of whom are girls, are homeless in the city. At the Salesian center, they access 13 months of free vocational training in carpentry, auto mechanics, assembly welding and masonry.

Typically, each year 100 students are admitted. More than a year ago, the class size expanded to 150 students. They were youth who had little hope for the future. When they arrived at the Don Bosco Center, they underwent two months of literacy or remedial education, eight months of practical training in a trade, and then three months of work experience with craftspeople on a construction site, in a workshop, or in a small business.

Of the 150 who started their education, 116 received their professional certificates on March 5. Many of the graduates are already working, given jobs with the companies where they interned. Of the graduates, 24 young women participated in the program and 23 completed and passed. One young woman from the masonry program received the highest grades in the entire school.

“The Don Bosco Center provides education for youth who have no where else to turn,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Gaining an education in a trade allows students to access classroom education and then put their skills into practice in a real working environment. If students do a good job at their internship, many are hired before they even graduate. The goal is to give youth access to skills that ensure long-term stable employment.”

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – DR Congo – 116 street boys and girls graduate from Salesian school in Bukavu

Don Bosco Center Bukavu Facebook

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Displaced people obtain medical care

MissionNewswire — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:09:38 +0000

Don Bosco Ngangi medical center transformed into an emergency hospital

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) While the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo* is still facing ongoing clashes that have been displacing thousands of people, Salesian missionaries continue with their work. The medical center at Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma just delivered triplets for Dorcas Ndibungo, who had a boy and two girls.

Ndibungo, age 36, has been at Don Bosco Ngangi since she was displaced in November 2022. She fled Kibumba village in the Nyiragongo territory north of Goma with her eight children. She has been seeking shelter at the center since then and was fortunate to have the medical center to aid in her pregnancy and delivery.

Initially set up to provide care for youth living at Don Bosco Ngangi, the medical center later began providing maternity, consultation, laboratory, hospitalization, prevention, pharmacy and nutrition services. This has been particularly important with the addition of 28,000 people who have sought shelter on the center’s fields.

The medical center has been transformed into an emergency hospital for thousands who have been displaced. The medical team includes a doctor, a laboratory technician, a physiotherapist, a clinical psychologist, two hygienists and five nurses. The team is providing both preventive and medical care for those who have been injured and have emergencies.

In the first two months of assisting those displaced, the medical center treated 1,702 people, and in the last week of February and the first week of March, care was provided for 766 vulnerable people. A total of 16 women gave birth, nine patients were referred to more specialized facilities and 18 were hospitalized.

Father Jean-Pierre Muhima, director of the Don Bosco Ngangi center, explained where the additional resources have come from to meet the expanded need. He said, “Wherever there is need, misery, violence, suffering, Don Bosco must be there. We started with the means we had at our disposal. We have also been fortunate to have benefactors in the field of health, including Salesian Mission offices around the world, and other organizations such as the International Volunteers for Development (VIS), Save the Children, and the International Committee of the Red Cross, among others.”

Given the violence does not seem to be deescalating, Salesians, with the help of VIS, are working on a more long-term solution for those who have been displaced and are launching a project to provide people with more support. The goal is to provide more provisions and psychological support to the people including education for minors.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – A sign of hope in the midst of war: a woman gives birth to triplets in the health center of the Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Centre

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Homeless youth benefit from food partnership

MissionNewswire — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 08:32:52 +0000

Youth at center access long-term services and help with education

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Youth in the Democratic Republic of the Congo* received healthy nutrition thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, an international humanitarian organization growing a global movement to end hunger. The rice-meals were sent to the Salesian Projects Office of the Central Africa Province and distributed to Salesian programs in the second half of 2022.

One of the recipients was the Bakanja Center, which serves youth who arrive from the Salesian Bakanja Ville, which acts as a drop-in and reception center for homeless youth who are looking to escape the challenges of living on the streets.

At the Bakanja Center, youth can access more long-term services that help with their recovery and education. Sami Mujinga Lapp is one of the youth who received the rice-meal donation at the Bakanja Center.

Lapp said, “I feel at home in this center that has welcomed me after living on the street. After receiving my education with the Salesians, I would like to be a great mechanic. I think that I would like to move to Zambia to earn a living. I want to contribute to society and help other street youth.”

Lapp also enjoys the camaraderie of eating with his friends. He added, “Often I sit next to my friends and we share our meals and talk and joke. We like to laugh together. Since I started eating the Rise Against Hunger meals, I feel healthy, and my weight even increased. It is a very good meal, especially for malnourished children. I would say it’s important for me to eat this meal because it contains the necessary vitamins for the body. For our community, this meal has allowed those of us who were undernourished a chance to regain normal health.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Artillery fire causes displaced people to flee Don Bosco Shasha

MissionNewswire — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 08:31:46 +0000

Thousands had settled on grounds during ongoing conflict

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO.

(MissionNewswire) Salesians in Goma and surrounding areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo* are supporting people who have been displaced because of ongoing conflict. The conflict has left more than 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to UNHCR – the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Thousands of displaced people settled on the grounds of Don Bosco Shasha with Salesians providing food and shelter. Recently, the use of heavy weapons by Congolese loyalist forces has caused panic for those staying on the Salesian land. As a result, thousands of people are on the run again to unknown destinations.

Fear peaked on March 7, when rockets fired by Congolese loyalist forces stationed in the Salesian concession and its northern periphery reached Karuba, about 30 kilometers (about 18.6 miles) from the Salesian house, causing casualties among peaceful farmers in the area. The side from Karuba responded with artillery fire that fell in the Salesian concession.

According to reports from Jambo Vijana, a magazine published by youth from Salesian programs with the Eastern Delegation of Central Africa, this artillery fire resulted in the death of one person and wounded two.

At the time, 415 children and youth from Salesian schools and 23 teachers immediately fled Shasha. In addition, 250 sharecropper families and 20 plantation workers also dispersed. Further, 623 displaced families, nearly 5,000 people, hastily emptied their makeshift shelters on Salesian land. The nearest health facility is without medical staff. In all war zones, there is a massive exodus of people and fighting.

Those impacted by the war are also going to Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, where some 28,000 people are seeking shelter on the center’s grounds. The hope is that the artillery fire will cease soon so people can go back to living their lives in Shasha.

Given the violence in the country does not seem to be deescalating, Salesians are working on a more long-term solution and are launching a project to provide people with more support. The goal is to provide more provisions and psychological support to the people, including education for minors.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Salesians, direct and indirect traditional beneficiaries, and displaced people fleeing “Don Bosco Shasha”

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries support people fleeing conflict

MissionNewswire — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 08:16:55 +0000

Thousands of displaced people have settled on the grounds of Don Bosco Shasha

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesians in Goma and the surrounding areas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo* are supporting people who have been displaced because of ongoing conflict. The conflict has left more than 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to UNHCR – the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Since the beginning of October 2022, more than 28,000 people seeking refuge from violence have arrived at Don Bosco Ngangi. Salesian missionaries, with support of volunteers from the Salesian-run International Volunteering for Development (VIS), are supporting people as best they can. Those displaced are also turning to Don Bosco Shasha, located outside of Goma.

Thousands of displaced people have settled on the grounds of Don Bosco Shasha, and Salesians are trying to provide food and shelter. A Salesian with the East Delegation of the Central Africa Province said, “We have received yet another group of war-displaced people in our community of Don Bosco Shasha. We are trying to see how we can help them. They have fled leaving almost everything in their homes and are in a very precarious situation. We need to remain united in prayer for this situation which is going to continue.”

On Feb. 9, forces from one of the warring parties entered the area of Kimoka, a village located eight kilometers (about 5 miles) from the town of Sake and just 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) from Shasha. The Salesian said, “Around 10 a.m. there was a stampede in the area. The parents of our students from Don Bosco Shasha came and collected their children to get ready to move out. By 2 p.m. the displaced had settled on our grounds and in front of the classrooms. We opened the doors for them. On the first night alone, we took in 582 refugees from 89 households.”

Salesians at both Don Bosco Ngangi and Don Bosco Shasha are working to provide shelter, food and other supplies to people in need. Supplies are running low as people are in desperate need of humanitarian aid. Salesians around the globe are doing the best they can in offering support, especially in the form of food aid.

The Salesian missionary said, “We say a big thank you to all the people who are helping us to help all these displaced people. We will continue with other activities according to the needs we identify in the camp.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Thousands of displaced people need help at “Don Bosco Shasha” center

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: People sheltering at Don Bosco Ngangi helped with food shipment

MissionNewswire — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:27:18 +0000

The shipment of rice-meals and other food helped 1,440 households

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) People who have been internally displaced during the ongoing conflict in the North Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo* and are seeking shelter at Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma had access to nutritional support thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Feed My Starving Children, a nonprofit Christian organization committed to “feeding God’s children hungry in body and spirit.” The shipment of rice-meals and other food helped 1,440 households.

The conflict has left more than 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to UNHCR – the United Nations Refugee Agency. Since the beginning of October 2022, more than 28,000 people seeking refuge from violence have arrived at Don Bosco Ngangi. Salesian missionaries, with support of volunteers from the Salesian-run International Volunteering for Development (VIS), are supporting people as best as they can.

Those who have been displaced and seeking shelter with the Salesians include 19,000 children, who are suffering from insufficient food and are challenged by harsh living conditions. Salesians have identified more than 1,000 children under age 5 who have been showing signs of malnutrition due to lack of food in sufficient quality and quantity while the war has continued.

One Salesian missionary said, “This area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is extremely fertile and most families work in the agricultural center. However, more than 90 percent of the farmers had already sown their crops and were at a stage where the agricultural crops needed more maintenance in order to hope for a very good harvest. Unfortunately, the war caught them unprepared, and they were forced to leave their homes and take refuge in Ngangi.”

People who received the rice-meals have been extremely grateful for the donation, especially the children who look forward to mealtimes. Salesians report that the rice-meals have helped to address malnutrition. As the war rages on, Salesian missionaries and VIS continue to look for ways to help support those who have been displaced.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Feed My Starving Children

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians at Don Bosco Ngangi provide shelter and food for displaced people

MissionNewswire — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 08:28:54 +0000

More than 28,000 people seeking refuge from violence have arrived at Don Bosco Ngangi since October 2022

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The conflict and violence in the North Kivu Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo* is still raging. People are caught between war and violence, leaving 5.8 million people displaced across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tanganyika, according to UNHCR – the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Since the beginning of October 2022, more than 28,000 people seeking refuge from violence have arrived at Don Bosco Ngangi, located in Goma. Salesian missionaries, with support of volunteers from the Salesian-run International Volunteering for Development (VIS), are supporting people as best they can.

“This latest wave of violence has prompted tens of thousands of people to leave their homes in search of relative safety in several areas of North Kivu Province, including Goma,” explained Father Piero Gavioli, an Italian missionary in the DR Congo for nearly 50 years. “This has caused the three soccer fields at the Don Bosco Ngangi Center to fill with those displaced. The latest figures speak of some 3,530 households, including more than 19,000 minors. It is an emergency situation that calls all humanitarian workers and members of society to assist a community in distress.”

Salesians report that in January, the rebel military advanced and cut off the second main link that supplied the city of Goma with various products, after the first had been cut off in late 2022. As a result, the situation in North Kivu deteriorated significantly. There have been massacres, sexual abuse, organ trafficking, enlistment of minors in the conflict, kidnappings for ransom and more unspeakable acts of violence.

Already Salesians have improved the physical situation by providing more access to water from the Don Bosco Center to improve sanitation and hygiene, installing lighting at the site, and creating a 12-person security team. Salesians have also distributed soybean and corn gruel to 365 displaced children and 357 adults, provided additional food and cooking utensils to 300 families, and gave tarpaulins to 120 families. Medical care has also been important. So far, 1,844 people have received medical care including 84 hospitalized and 32 transferred to other medical facilities. There have been 14 births.

Given the violence does not seem to be deescalating, Salesians with the help of VIS are working on a more long-term solution and are launching a project to provide people with more support. The goal is to provide more provisions and psychological support to the people including education for minors.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – 26 thousand displaced people need everything at grounds of “Don Bosco Ngangi” work

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNHCR – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Young woman thrives as mason

MissionNewswire — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 08:16:44 +0000

Technical trade courses provide an empowering career path for women

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical School, located in the city of Bukavu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo*, provides education to both young men and women. While many women do not take courses traditionally reserved for men, some women see these courses as a way to a viable and empowering career path. For example, Blandine, age 20, was the only woman in her mason course.

Blandine is the eldest of seven siblings, and although she always dreamed of studying English and becoming an interpreter, her family’s financial situation and the responsibility of taking care of her siblings prevented her from doing so. When she was told that she could learn a trade at Don Bosco Technical School, Blandine didn’t hesitate. She decided to become a bricklayer and was the only woman in her class to try. Thanks to her education, she now has a steady job, helps her family and can pay for her younger siblings’ schooling.

Blandine explained, “Not all girls have to be seamstresses and not all boys have to be mechanics or welders. I was always interested in how to build walls and buildings, and since there is a lot of construction going on in Bukavu right now, I thought it would be a good future for me and that I would be good at it.”

Blandine set a goal and took all the exams, participating in the practical training along with her male classmates. She obtained her professional certificate and will always be grateful for the theoretical, practical, and religious education she received from the Salesians.

After finishing her studies, Blandine got her first contract. “In these two years, I have worked at five construction sites and have always been complimented on my work. I never lacked employment. Thanks to a stable and professional job, I have money for my expenses, to save and to help at home. Now I can pay my younger siblings’ school fees, and we are planning to expand our house as well.”

Blandine encourages other young women to follow in her footsteps if they are interested in the profession. “I advise girls to learn manual jobs that are thought to be reserved only for boys, because of course we are just as capable. This is the best way to ensure that we are not taken advantage of, that we don’t marry too young, and that our rights are clear.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Blandine, the only female mason in her class, life changed by Don Bosco center in Bukavu

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Displaced people find safety

MissionNewswire — Tue, 03 Jan 2023 08:23:59 +0000

Salesians support almost 28,000 displaced people on grounds of Don Bosco Ngangi

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Since the beginning of October 2022, almost 28,000 people seeking refuge from violence have arrived at Don Bosco Ngangi, located in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*. Salesian missionaries are reporting that the war between the regular armed forces and the M23 rebel group has caused thousands of people to flee toward the city in search of safety and shelter.

Salesian missionaries with Don Bosco Ngangi, with support of volunteers from the Salesian-run International Volunteering for Development (VIS), are supporting people as best they can. Those displaced were provided with water as they set up make-shift shelter on the playgrounds. Electricity was also provided from the Salesian enter.

More than 100 children under age 5, including a dozen newborns and their mothers, are fed a tonic soup every day. Children received treatment for the elimination of worms and parasites, which was offered by the medical staff from the Ngangi Center clinic. Also, more than 80 families receive a dry ration of enriched rice with various seasonings every day.

A Salesian missionary said, “Sparks of charity and compassion can be seen among those displaced and those providing care. About 20 elderly people, including two octogenarians from the distant territory of Rutshuru, were brought into the center to help improve their condition from being outside. They are gradually stabilizing. We are also working to improve the health and psychophysical balance of some widowed women, two of whom are mothers of eight children under the age of 10.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Don Bosco is present among thousands of displaced people in north of Goma city

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians continue to support internally displaced taking shelter at Don Bosco Ngangi

MissionNewswire — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 08:01:54 +0000

People have had to flee for their safety leaving behind everything

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Thousands of people from the area north of the city of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, have sought shelter on the playgrounds surrounding Don Bosco Ngangi. Salesian missionaries are reporting that the war between the regular armed forces and M23 rebel group has caused thousands of people to flee toward the city in search of safety and shelter.

Men, women, and children who are depressed, tired, hungry, and traumatized have set up a camp in the center’s three sports areas. The situation is dire as there are not enough supplies for people and this area was not set up for a camp like this. There were no latrines, drinking water, food or firewood. During the first day, about thirty trees were cut down to obtain wood to build more stable shelters and wood for cooking. In addition, about 10 food plantations of local residents were damaged.

Salesians are working to provide support and organization for this camp. Father Jean Pierre Muhima, director of Don Bosco Ngangi, and Brother Augustin Mupoyi, bursar, visited the camp and made an assessment of the most immediate needs required for the people. In collaboration with Mercy Corps, toilets were immediately installed. Nineteen people who were sick and weak and in the most desperate need of care were brought in from the camp and housed in a dormitory in order to protect them against bad weather.

Supplies were also provided to those who are most vulnerable including the elderly, pregnant women and women who are still breastfeeding. Close to 300 people received tarpaulins, soap, mattresses and clothing. In addition, 300 people received food assistance including rice, salt, flour, and vegetable oil, along with non-food items. More than 30 children received clothing and shoes.

“Salesians are working to support the influx of people to Don Bosco Ngangi and provide them with the necessities while they are displaced,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “People have had to flee for their safety leaving behind everything. Salesians are calling on the international community to help support their efforts during this difficult time.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of World Coordinator, SBD fundraising (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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AFRICA: Families receive food aid as need grows

MissionNewswire — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 08:06:58 +0000

Salesians work to address needs of those facing food shortages and displacement in Horn of Africa

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Missions Australia has launched an emergency relief appeal for food relief to help support Salesian programs in the Horn of Africa. Salesians have been providing access to food relief, education, basic necessities and agriculture programs, especially in the wake of food shortages and unrest in the region.

Food shortages have increased in the Horn of Africa and Central Africa where Salesians have programs. According to an article in CathNews, food shortages continue to increase in these areas as the number of internally displaced people continues to swell as conflict in the region uproots people in search of safety.

In Tigray, Ethiopia*, Salesian missionaries are distributing food to more than 3,000 families while also repairing damaged schools and churches that currently house many families. In Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, increased conflict has sent thousands of people flooding into the city and seeking shelter on the playgrounds surrounding Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center.

At Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp in Uganda, Salesians operate many educational and social programs. With decreasing food rations available from the World Food Program, Salesians have been working through food distribution and agriculture programs to increase the food availability for those in the camp.

Father Ubaldino, rector of the Salesian community in Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp, has established 25 farming groups, involving 1,250 people who attend to over 92 acres of maize, soybeans, and sunflowers. While maize is a diet staple of the people at Palabek, it cannot be consumed without processing. Salesian Missions Australia has purchased a maize huller and maize miller, which are vital in aiding the food crisis.

Fr. Ubaldino said, “The agriculture groups are very important because they enable those involved to contribute to their families, supplement food rations, and restore dignity.”

In Juba, South Sudan*, close to 4,000 children access Salesian primary and secondary school. In addition to providing access to education, Salesians are providing women’s programs and sports programs for children in the camp.

Salesians in Australia and around the globe will continue to monitor the growing crisis in the region and work to address it through food aid, other supplies and direct donations.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions Australia

CathNews – Salesian launch emergency appeal for displaced Africans

Salesian Missions Australia

Salesian Missions

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DR CONGO: 166 young women graduate vocational training

MissionNewswire — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 08:56:41 +0000

Efforts part of project to empower women to help eradicate violence

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Young women in need of vocational training turn to Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, for courses at Salesian centers such as Maison Marguerite and Foyer Annuarite. Recently, 166 young women, including many single mothers, graduated from vocational training. More than 80 of them were trained in cutting and sewing, 49 as hairdressers and beauticians, and 33 in culinary arts.

International Voluntary Service (VIS) supported Salesian efforts to train young women as part of the project to eradicate forms of violence against adolescent girls and adult women in vulnerable situations as well as victims of conflict in Goma. Empowering women is only one step in the fight to end violence.

The graduation ceremony began with a Catholic Mass presided over by Father Jean-Pierre Muhima, rector of Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center. This was followed by the distribution of the vocational placement kits to the newly graduated women. There were numerous state authorities in charge of vocational training from labor and social affairs, Salesian trainers, and lay staff from VIS present at the graduation.

“Young girls and women who have access to education have a chance at a better life,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “By empowering women through education, we are putting their futures in their hands. They will be able to earn an income and support their children, make healthier choices and have more stability in their lives while giving back to their communities.”

Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center has been providing social development, medical, and educational services to poor youth and their families since 1988. Started first as a youth center, it expanded to provide assistance to those in the region affected by war, other violence and natural disasters. In 1997, the center added kindergarten, elementary, secondary and vocational education as well as a literacy center and medical facility. In the midst of wars, violence, and poverty, the center has welcomed, educated, cared for, and supported more than 26,000 children.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – 166 girls and mothers in need graduate from “Don Bosco Ngangi” vocational training programs

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Thousands fleeing war set up camp

MissionNewswire — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 08:30:09 +0000

Salesian missionaries provide shelter and aid to those displaced by war

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, are reporting that the war between the regular armed forces and the rebels of the M23 group, accused of being supported by some neighboring countries, has caused thousands of people to flee toward the city. Mostly women and children are suffering and dying.

Thousands of people from the area north of the city of Goma have come to the playgrounds surrounding Don Bosco Ngangi. They are seeking peace and security and have set up a camp for displaced people in the center’s three sports areas and on the fields of neighboring communities. Men, women, and children who are fleeing the combat zones in the Rutshuru Territory, North Kivu Province, are visibly tired, hungry, and traumatized.

The situation is dire as there are not enough supplies for people and this area was not set up for a camp like this. There are no latrines, drinking water, food or firewood. During the first day, about 30 trees were cut down to build more stable shelters and provide wood for cooking. In addition, about 10 food plantations of local residents were damaged. Supplies are desperately needed and Salesians are calling for help.

Father Aurélien Mukangwa, Salesian provincial delegate for the eastern zone of the Central Africa Province, resides in Goma and recently released a statement about the ongoing situations. He wrote, “We have just returned from a patrol completed as far as Kilimanyoka to learn about the conditions of the people displaced by the war, who are still without assistance, and especially the situation of the displaced youth and children. We also went to Kanyarucinya parish for a discussion with the pastor who has already referred an orphan to our Don Bosco Ngangi center. It is difficult to witness, unable to intervene, the misery to which so many innocent people are being forced. There are more than 2,500 displaced and homeless families.”

Fr. Mukangwa requested, “That is why I ask you, dear brethren who are in Goma, to be open and willing, according to your possibilities (and as a community) to do something for the displaced youth, in collaboration with the Project Office of the AFC-EST Delegation. The time has come when we must go out to meet the youth, our target recipients, in the existential peripheries. I invite you to go and see for yourself so that you can see this for yourselves. Let us unite in prayer for peace in the east of our country.”

Salesian missionaries in the Democratic Republic of theCongo have responded with support and humanitarian aid. Salesians noted “Let us make this situation known and, according to our possibilities, let us bring humanitarian aid and call for peace in the Great Lakes region. And let us pray both for the victims of this situation, and for those in power.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – An appeal to help people fleeing war

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – A camp of displaced people spontaneously arises around Salesian work “Don Bosco Ngangi”

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Youth receive nutritional support at Don Bosco Kansebula thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions

MissionNewswire — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 08:28:24 +0000

Don Bosco Kansebula also has a 44-hectare farm that supplies food

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) More than 360 youth received nutritional support at Don Bosco Kansebula, located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

Youth benefiting from this food were ages 6-22. Many are are in secondary school and college as well as 82 young Salesians studying at Don Bosco Kansebula. Single mothers from the villages also received this donation. The goal was to provide ongoing balanced nutrition for young Salesians and other vulnerable youth.

Don Bosco Kansebula also has a 44-hectare farm that supplies food for the Salesian formation house and to the village nearby. Since its beginning, Don Bosco Kansebula has provided young Salesians with philosophy education and has given them shelter and nutritional support while at the school. Villagers living near Don Bosco Kansebula have used the farm to cultivate food for themselves and the community.

One of the beneficiaries was Kyundundu Mbilizi Fabrice, who is 25 and in high school, Fabrice said, “I studied agriculture in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo at Uvira. Now, I am at Kansebula as Salesian of Don Bosco in post-novitiate. At Kansebula, we have a garden and we produce vegetables and keep some domestical animals. Villages and confreres have benefited from what is produced in the garden and in the farm as well. I am really happy for what our benefactors are doing for us in order to fight hunger and I encourage them to continue in that direction.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Access to health care to expand

MissionNewswire — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 08:17:28 +0000

Salesian missionaries launch modernization project for Afia Don Bosco Polyclinic

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have launched a modernization project for Afia Don Bosco Polyclinic in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*. Built in 1987, the Salesian health clinic provides health care to people living in Lubumbashi. After more than 30 years in operation, the clinic is now in a position to expand and upgrade its facilities.

At a launch event, Father Ghislain Kaya, general director of Afia Don Bosco Polyclinic, and Father Guillermo Basañes, superior of the Mary Most Holy Assumption of Central Africa Province, laid the foundation stone that launches the new construction.

In his speech, Fr. Basañes highlighted that the time had come to modernize the health facility to provide quality health care, and he highlighted the work of Salesians in this region. Fr. Kaya explained the new modernization plan and introduced the construction company that will do the work for the next nine months.

Dr. Franck Monga, who is in charge of the Lubumbashi Health District, also attended the ceremony. He acknowledged the value and contribution of Afia Don Bosco Polyclinic for the local community and expressed his confidence on behalf of the people of his area. He thanked the Salesians for the clinic, which has become a partner of the Congolese government in the health sector.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Laying of foundation stone for modernization project of “Afia Don Bosco” Polyclinic in Lubumbashi

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Donor funding supports orphans, teachers

MissionNewswire — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 08:55:40 +0000

Donor funding from Salesian Missions paid school fees for 55 orphans at Don Bosco Shasha

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Orphans attending Don Bosco Shasha, located in the Mupfunya Shanga-Shasha village in the Democratic Republic of the Congo*, received support through donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding paid teachers’ salaries and covered the cost of school fees for 55 orphans, including 23 girls, whose families could not afford schooling.

The Masisi Territory is facing armed conflicts and is one of the worst areas of violence. Conflicts have increased the number of orphans and displaced people within the territory. When conditions are too hard and incomes are low, many families remove their children from school because they do not see it as a necessary expense.

The students receiving funding through this project were selected because they have benefited from counseling and additional psychological support. Many of them have continued on with their education despite facing depression and anxiety. Salesians have paid for their schooling as well as additional social support and psychological care.

One of the students, Buuma Bihira Phélicien, is from a family of five children, of which three of them have died. The father also passed away last year leaving the family with little support. Phélicien said, “After my father passed, I was told I had to leave school but the Salesians supported me. My mother sells bananas. It’s a small business that feeds us, but she couldn’t pay for our schooling after the death of our father. Father Kizito, director of Don Bosco Shasha, helped us a lot and he told us that there are benefactors from Salesian Missions who have supported us during this year, offering us free education. I thank all the benefactors who have supported us. I hope that this will continue because if the support ends, I will be forced to abandon my studies.”

Furaha Elodie Karamba, age 9, was also provided free education through this donor funding. Karamaba said, “I am in the 3rd year and live with my mother. There are six children and my father left us because of bad debts. My mother works in the field and we are living in difficulty. Salesians have paid for my schooling this year. I thank those who have helped and I hope that I will be able to continue to study like the other children.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Rice-meals increase student attendance

MissionNewswire — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 08:33:22 +0000

Oeuvres Maman Marguerite Center receives shipment of rice-meals thanks to Rise Against Hunger

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Oeuvres Maman Marguerite Center, located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo*, received a shipment of rice-meals thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco and Rise Against Hunger, an international relief organization that provides food and life-changing aid to the world’s most vulnerable.

Bavon, age 14, is one of the youth who received the rice-meals. He is an orphan living at the Magone Salesian boarding center and attends sixth grade at a primary school nearby. His dream is to become a builder.

Bavon received was happy to receive meals at the Salesian center and said, “Since I have started eating, my health has improved, due to the vitamins that are found in the meal. I like to eat it with my brothers and sisters in the community right after I rest and relax.”

Nicole Kasongo, organizational coordinator, reflected on what the rice-meals meant to the community. “There is a stability of young people in foster homes and Salesian centers, less dropout from classes, improvement in the health of young beneficiaries, motivation, and joy on the part of young people,” she said.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Social workers strengthen their skills

MissionNewswire — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 08:13:23 +0000

Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center holds course on providing services for street children

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center held a special course for Salesian staff focused on street children in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo*. The course was organized by Father Jean-Pierre Muhima, rector of the Salesian Community in Ngangi, under the guidance of Father Aimé Lulinda, a specialist in social pedagogy and a researcher on the problems of street children.

During the course, close to 20 social workers and psychologists explored the principles used in Salesian centers for street children including reception, support, reintegration, or reunification. Their skills were strengthened on the criteria, tools, and stages of reintegration or family reunification. Fr. Lulinda also shared his analysis of the reasons why children who seek support in Salesian centers sometimes return to the streets.

Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center has been providing social development, medical and educational services to poor youth and their families since 1988. Started first as a youth center, it expanded to provide assistance to those in the region affected by war, other violence and natural disasters. In 1997, the center added kindergarten, elementary, secondary and vocational education as well as a literacy center and medical facility. In the midst of wars, violence and poverty, the center has welcomed, educated, cared for and supported more than 26,000 children.

“Don Bosco Ngangi is one of the most diverse and comprehensive Salesian organizations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Built on the grounds of a school and sports field, the Don Bosco Ngangi Youth Center has grown to provide vocational training, refugee housing, rehabilitation for child soldiers, and programs for those needing nutritional and medical care.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – DR Congo – Salesian home workers for street children participate in training session at “Don Bosco Ngangi”

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: President of Mission Don Bosco visits Salesian programs

MissionNewswire — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 08:55:47 +0000

Salesians have programs in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Father Daniel Antúnez, president of Mission Don Bosco in Turin, Italy, and Ester Negro, the organization’s photographer, recently spent time visiting Salesian programs in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo* and Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo*.

The trip is a first response to the invitation of the Vatican’s cardinal secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who earlier made a pastoral visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo on behalf of Pope Francis, who had remained at the Vatican because of a knee ailment.

Both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo struggle due to poverty, difficult economies, and the environment. In a statement, Cardinal Parolin denounced “the lust for raw materials, the thirst for money and power close the doors of peace and represent an attack on people’s right to life and serenity.”

Fr. Antúnez explained, “The Don Bosco missions operate in territories where there is child exploitation in mines, ancestral prejudice against those born with physical abnormalities, and violence against young women. They live on the borders of areas subject to the action of anti-government gun groups. A few days before his killing on Feb. 22, 2021, Italian Ambassador Luca Attanasio had gone to greet Salesians and cooperators in Goma, in the troubled Kivu region.”

Salesians have been dedicated to the development of youth of this region for many years. They have provided social programs, youth shelters for homeless youth, youth centers, parishes and schools in Kinshasa for 110 years and in Brazzaville for 60.

Salesians also provide other specialized programs which Fr. Antúnez visited including in Mbuji-Mayi where Salesians work to safeguard children accused of witchcraft and are persecuted in their villages. In Tshikapa, Salesians are exploring the possibility of building an elementary school in an area infamous for the exploitation of diamond mines, an activity that also involves child labor and where the illiteracy rate reaches 47 percent.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Missionary journey of “Missioni Don Bosco” in the two Congo

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Youth gain skills, develop talents

MissionNewswire — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 08:43:29 +0000

Salesian Boscolac community provides education and social programs for 100 youth

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) At the end of the school year, the Salesian community of the Boscolac, located in Mugunga, Democratic Republic of the Congo, organized an event to thank people who supported the Salesian mission throughout the year. Boscolac is the only Salesian educational center in this suburban area about 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the city of Goma. The most vulnerable and disadvantaged populations live there, and youth are happy to participate in the educational, recreational, and religious activities available.

Boscolac provides an opportunity for youth to learn a trade at the Salesian vocational training center. Youth take courses in cutting and sewing and develop their talents at the oratory through theater, music, and sports. Close to 100 youth attend these activities.

Boscolac was made possible thanks to the group Marineo Solidale, which initially supported the schooling of 10 youth and the purchase of materials for the oratory’s activities. Other benefactors have also been important for the continuation of activities.

“Youth who are living in poverty and are able to access education and social programs have a chance at a better life,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian programs aim to help children live safely while getting the emotional support they need and the education that will help them lead productive lives.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – “Boscolac” gives young people opportunity to learn a trade and develop their talents

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Students learn to protect environment

MissionNewswire — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 08:44:49 +0000

St. John Bosco Higher Institute of Philosophy Kansebula holds scientific day focused on the environment

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The St. John Bosco Higher Institute of Philosophy Kansebula, located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, held a scientific day focused on the theme “Commitment to a new relationship between man and nature. Foundation of durable and sustainable development for an emerging Congo.” This ecological theme was developed by 10 university professors who spoke about their areas of expertise on the day.

The event was attended by final year students from various Salesian secondary schools, student delegations from various Catholic and public colleges and universities, and various religious communities. The goal was to help young students and faculty understand the importance of protecting the environment and the role that they play in sustainable development.

Salesian missionaries around the globe have been launching environmental and sustainable projects. These activities are in response to Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility. Rector Major Father Ángel Fernández Artime noted the importance of concrete initiatives in the care of the environment.

“The scientific day held at the St. John Bosco Higher Institute of Philosophy is one among many sustainable development initiatives being launched by Salesians around the globe,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Not only do greener practices help the environment and ensure a better life for the youth we serve, but they also help Salesians save energy costs, which is then used to aid programming.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Salesians call for commitment to a new relationship between man and nature

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Students gain skills in business operations

MissionNewswire — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 08:46:11 +0000

Students from Don Bosco Ngangi Institute visit printing centers for educational tour

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Students in their final year of the printing training course at the Don Bosco Ngangi Institute, located in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, have been visiting printing centers in Bukavu to learn more about business operations.

The institute set up the meetings to enable students to learn the tools and machines used for printing and also to familiarize them with other systems. Father Piero Gavioli, rector of the Don Bosco Ngangi Institute, offered the students business advice. The students expressed that they were happy and excited about the new practical knowledge they gained.

The broader Don Bosco Center Ngangi, of which the skills training institute is a part, has been providing social development, medical, and educational services to poor youth and their families since 1988. Started as a youth center, the Don Bosco Center expanded to provide assistance to those in the region affected by war, other violence and natural disasters. In 1997, the center added kindergarten, elementary, secondary, and vocational education, as well as a literacy center and medical facility.

“Don Bosco Center Ngangi is one of the most diverse and comprehensive Salesian organizations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Built on the grounds of a school and sports field, the center has grown to provide a diverse array of educational and social programs to poor youth and their families in Bukavu and Goma. Visits to businesses like the printing shops provide students with the hands-on practical knowledge they need to start work after graduating.”

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than 100 years ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational, and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Students from “Don Bosco Ngangi” printing course visit Bukavu’s printing centers to increase their knowledge

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Farm helps students overcome food insecurity

MissionNewswire — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 08:59:41 +0000

Don Bosco Kansebula improves the yield from its farm thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Kansebula in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, was able to improve the yield from its farm thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The “Food security for the youth of Don Bosco Kansebula” project helped to provide food for 360 children and youth ages 6-22, as well as 83 young Salesians who are studying philosophy at Don Bosco Kansebula.

Most of the children and youth who received nutritional support are attending the local secondary school and college and live in the village. Single mothers were also supported as a part of this project.

Don Bosco Kansebula has a 44-hectare farm that supplies food for the Salesian formation house and to the village nearby. Since its beginning, Don Bosco Kansebula has provided young Salesians with philosophy education and has given them shelter and nutritional support while at the school. Villagers living near Don Bosco Kansebula have used the farm to cultivate food for themselves and the community.

Most of the youth in the village cannot afford to have more than one meal a day and the quality of the food is not sufficient. With COVID-19, many have been pushed further into poverty and do not have the means to support themselves. The goal of this project was to help increase the yield from the farm to provide for the nutritional needs of those in Salesian programs and in the village.

Wilondja Mayayu Luc is a young Salesian and one of the recipients. He is in his third year studying philosophy and completed high school as a technician agronomist. He said, “I am very happy for the generosity shown in supporting our small community projects. The financial assistance provided has helped us solve difficulties related to food insecurity. With this project, we were able to start raising broilers and laying hens and buy some goats. We have also added some vegetables to ensure food security. It was a great joy in our community to have a diversity of vegetables and animals.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Workshop focuses on protecting children and youth

MissionNewswire — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 08:34:21 +0000

Don Bosco Center Ngangi provides capacity-building workshop on the protection of minors

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Center Ngangi, located in the eastern city of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, provided a capacity-building workshop on the protection of minors. The workshop brought together 30 Salesian missionaries, Salesian sisters from Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Salvatorian sisters and lay collaborators.

Father Jean-Pierre Muhima, rector of Don Bosco Center Ngangi, said the goal was to provide people working in the field of child protection with a solid legal and practical foundation for better performance. The workshop, given by Salesian Father Pascal Mumba, focused on the civil rights of children under international and national law and the policy of protection of minors and vulnerable persons in the Salesian Province of Central Africa.

“Continuing education is important in any profession and particularly for Salesian staff working with at-risk children and vulnerable populations,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “While education is always the primary focus, youth who come to our programs are dealing with trauma and neglect that must be addressed first before we can expect them to excel in their studies.”

Don Bosco Center Ngangi has been providing social development, medical and educational services to poor youth and their families since 1988. Started as a youth center, it expanded to provide assistance to those in the region affected by war, other violence and natural disasters.

In 1997, the center added a kindergarten and elementary, secondary, and vocational schools, as well as a literacy center and medical facility. The center also provides aid and services to the many refugee camps that exist in the areas surrounding Goma. Refugees, orphans, abandoned children and victims of disaster are among the school students, and they rely on the center. For most of them, it’s also the only place where they receive a nutritious meal each day.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Protection of minors and vulnerable people, guarantee of success for Salesian mission

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Youth share messages of hope

MissionNewswire — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 08:33:05 +0000

Young members of Senior Salesian Missionary Group visit the elderly from Bolingo hospice

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) In celebration of the second anniversary of the Senior Salesian Missionary Group, young members visited the elderly from the Bolingo hospice, part of the Saint Achille Kiwanuka parish in the district of Kingabwa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. After a Catholic Mass, youth visited the elderly, brought donations and shared a meal.

The Senior Salesian Missionary Group brings together youth from the Salesian Province of Africa Congo. Some of the youth are still students while others have finished their studies and are working. The group’s goal is to spread Don Bosco’s missionary enthusiasm and provide youth an opportunity to give back to those in need in their community.

“Volunteering is a great way for youth to feel connected within their communities and share a message of hope,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “It also enables them to connect with their peers and work together to help those at risk or marginalized in the community.”

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Sources:

ANS – D.R. Congo – Salesian Senior Missionary Group visits elders of “Bolingo” hospice

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Students gain a voice in school elections

MissionNewswire — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 08:43:22 +0000

427 students from Don Bosco Ngangi participate in school election process

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Students attending Don Bosco Ngangi in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, had an opportunity to take part in the democratic process with a school election. The 427 students voted for which student would represent them in the 2021-2022 school year.

The four candidates had an opportunity to present their platforms to the student body and answer questions. This was overseen by Father Augustin Mupoyi, prefect of studies. The school’s director of studies also did a presentation for the students about the importance of elections and stressed how important it was that students participate and are informed. After the candidates made their pitches, the vote was held and Prosper Nfundiko Kabalama was elected.

“This was a great example for students how their voices matter in the election process,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Many of the students attending Don Bosco Ngangi come from conditions of poverty and are at-risk of violence and other abuses. This is an important lesson for them where they could actively participate in the election process and see the outcome of their choice. It was empowering for students who often don’t have a voice.”

Don Bosco Ngangi is working to transform the lives of youth who are at high risk of becoming victims of communal violence. In addition to the life skills and technical and vocational skills training youth receive, Don Bosco Ngangi also provides a suitable environment for forming good Christians and honest, upright citizens.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – The students of “Don Bosco Ngangi” learn to exercise democracy

Don Bosco Ngangi Center

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesians to rebuild after storm damages school facilities

MissionNewswire — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 08:40:58 +0000

Boarding school building at Salesian-run Cité des Jeunes School lost its roof due to strong winds and torrential rain

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run Cité des Jeunes School in Lubumbashi, in the south of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, had the roof blown off its boarding building due to strong winds and torrential rain. The impact of the storm ripped off the entire metal structure and metal sheets, which also caused bricks to fall from the wall and several doors and windows to break. Youth have been evacuated, and no one was hurt during the incident.

The boarding school welcomes 100 youth each year, and 80 percent of them live in extreme poverty. Without the boarding building, these youth have nowhere to sleep. The goal now is to find the funding and support to be able to rebuild.

“When incidents like this happen at Salesian programs it becomes challenging because of the limited resources available to rebuild,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Children who are able to access programs like this that help them come in off the streets—where they face poverty and are at risk for exploitation—have a chance at a better life. Salesian programs aim to help children live safely while getting the emotional support they need and the education that will help them live independently.”

Salesian missionaries have prioritized helping youth living on the streets in Lubumbashi. While the city has wealth from both agricultural and mineral resources, it faces numerous economic and social challenges. Children leave their homes for many reasons including divorce, family abuse and poverty. Living on the streets is dangerous for these youth as they are exposed to abuses, and many are forced to turn to petty crime to survive. Salesian missionaries encourage youth to seek the support of caring adults who can help them turn their lives around and connect them with appropriate shelter and education.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – An unfortunate accident damages the Salesian “Cité des Jeunes” in Lubumbashi

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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UGANDA: Refugees help solve food shortage

MissionNewswire — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 08:24:39 +0000

Refugees at Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp see harvest of their community garden crops

UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries living and working at Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp in Uganda are addressing food shortfalls for refugees. Salesians have been encouraging donations of seeds so refugees can plant and harvest their own food in community gardens that have been set up. Recently, a harvest took place from the work done and donations over the last several months. JuWe Vereinigung Don Bosco Werk in Switzerland has collaborated in these efforts.

While the camp is receiving some direct food donations, Salesian missionaries wanted refugees to take part in helping to solve the food shortage. Refugees, with Salesian support, are cultivating their own food including cereals, vegetables, and some cash crops such as sim sim, groundnuts and sunflower. Community gardens have been launched on farm land rented from local Ugandans. Salesians have provided several hundred kilos of maize, beans, soya beans, sim sim, groundnuts and many assorted vegetable seeds. They have also provided tons of cassava cuttings.

Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp is currently home to more than 56,000 refugees and asylum seekers. It was officially set up in April 2016 to reduce congestion in larger refugee camps in the northwestern corner of Uganda. Several agencies are involved in providing food and education within Palabek. While some have left because of the pandemic, Salesians have remained.

Even before COVID-19, living conditions in Palabek were not easy. Food distribution was scarce and there were difficulties in accessing drinking water. With the arrival of the pandemic, everything has become even more complicated. The amount of food delivered to refugees once a month has been reduced by 30 percent, classes and activities were suspended, and episodes of violence, alcoholism, and teenage pregnancies began.

Earlier this year, Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, provided food, 300 blankets for those with disabilities, cookware and other items for people in need. The funding also paid for transportation costs from Kampala to Palabek, gas for transport vehicles around the camp and motorbike repairs. Other funding provided incentives to social workers who are working in the camp under difficult circumstances.

“With Salesian Missions support we have been able to provide food and other necessities for people in need, particularly those with disabilities,” said Father Ubaldino, a Salesian missionary working at Palabek. “This donation is greatly appreciated because there is hunger and malnutrition and other nutritional deficiencies among the refugees. This creates much frustration, anger and other social disturbances. With this donation and others, Salesians have distributed many tons of food and clothing, especially to the poorest.”

Salesian missionaries at the settlement are offering much needed psychosocial support and pastoral care for thousands of Christian residents. They also operate four nursery schools that educate more than 1,000 children. In addition, there are over 700 children attending Salesian primary and secondary schools, and more than 700 families are supported by other initiatives. Salesian missionaries also launched a vocational training center to offer life skills and other training to help young refugees prepare for employment.

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Sources:

Don Bosco Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp

Salesian Missions – Uganda

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DR CONGO: Bakery supports youth training programs

MissionNewswire — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 15:46:13 +0000

Salesians open second Mamma Margherita Bakery to help earn income to support programming for poor youth

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Projects Office of the Central Africa Province opened a second Mamma Margherita Bakery. This new bakery is located in the Kilobelobe district, a municipality annexed to Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo. During the blessing ceremony, Father Edouard Kinsamba Mutale noted that the bakery helps to train youth in baking and also provides ongoing income to support other training programs for poor and disadvantaged youth.

Nicole Kasongo, director of the Salesian Projects Office, said, “Buying bread means supporting a child. The Mamma Margherita Bakery, which was created two years ago, will also open a third store in the next few days in the Plateau Karavia district.”

Salesian missionaries encourage youth to seek the support of caring adults who can help them turn their lives around and connect them with appropriate shelter and education. In Lubumbashi, missionaries operate Bakanja Ville, which is part of the local Salesian Bakanja Center for homeless children. Bakanja Ville marks the first stop in the process of welcoming children into the Salesian program, acting as a drop-in and reception center for homeless youth who are looking to escape the challenges of living on the streets.

The doors of Bakanja Ville are always open. Youth can access the program to take a shower, sleep, eat, wash their clothes and engage in activities. A file is opened for each young person who enters. Then, Salesian missionaries begin a search for family to see if reintegration is possible with the help of social workers. If not, youth are tracked into other Salesian programs where they can access education and have their basic needs met. Salesian missionaries also go out into the street twice a month to help connect with street children in their own environment to tell them about the program and offer them a safe place to stay.

“Children who are living on the streets experience discrimination and exclusion every day,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Children who are able to access programs that help them come in off the streets—where they face poverty and are at-risk for exploitation—have a chance at a better life. Salesian programs aim to help children live safely while getting the emotional support they need and the education that will help them live independently.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – The “Mamma Margherita Bakery” opens a new store

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Children and families supported after volcanic eruption

MissionNewswire — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 08:50:45 +0000

Don Bosco Ngangi Center is helping to support children and families returning after devastating volcanic eruption

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Youth who were evacuated from Don Bosco Ngangi Center in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, during the Nyiragongo volcanic eruption have returned to the center. The volcano erupted May 22 and Salesians, Salvatorian Sisters and Daughters of Mary Help of Christians had to remove all of the children from the Maison Ushindi orphanage and the young residents of the Saint Kizito Institute in order to keep them safe.

For those who lived through the worst, the fear still remains. Lava reached several villages, destroying homes, cultivated fields, electrical lines and water tanks. Many people left their homes not knowing how long they’d be gone or if they would have a home or possessions when they returned.

For a week, 283 children, 187 older youth and 82 adults found refuge in the Salesian farm in Shasha, where the living situation was difficult due to lack of space and sanitation facilities. Hygienic conditions were precarious, and people lived with the constant fear that COVID-19 might spread among those displaced.

“Now that we’re in the post-evacuation phase, it’s different emergency,” said a representative of Mission Don Bosco in Turin, Italy, which helps support the Don Bosco Ngangi Center. “Here there is less fear, but more misery. We still have children begging in the streets and older people who need support wandering the city all dirty and covered in rags.”

The representative added, “Even if the worst danger has passed, it is now necessary to intervene to help people find a home and dignity. We need to make sure children have a safe place to live, wash, feed and grow. There is a need for mattresses, blankets, food and powdered milk for babies.”

Don Bosco Ngangi Center, which is home to 250 children across two sites, was spared any damage, but families who were receiving help from the Salesians had their homes destroyed. Hundreds of houses and goods have been reduced to ash, and many families lost the few possessions they had.

Faced with this new situation and need for humanitarian aid, Salesian missionaries in Goma have launched an appeal for aid to help the youth they serve and the families who have sought help and safety.

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

Salesian missionaries have been working in the country for more than 100 years ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – After fear of eruption of Goma’s Nyiragongo volcano, recovery being planned

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: 250 children provided safety during Nyiragongo volcanic eruption

MissionNewswire — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 08:20:20 +0000

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Ngangi Center in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, is responding to the needs of people impacted by the recent Nyiragongo volcanic eruption. At close to 11:30 p.m. on May 22, Salesians, Salvatorian Sisters and Daughters of Mary Help of Christians had to remove all of the children from the Maison Ushindi orphanage and the young residents of the Saint Kizito Institute in order to keep them safe.

Don Bosco Ngangi Center was providing accommodations for 250 children in two sites until a new evacuation order forced them to move the children again. The Maison Mama Marguerite cares for 135 girls and small children, and the Maison Gahinja has 95 children and boys up to age 19. Salesians and the children have been moved to Shasha, a city located about 40 km from Goma, where the Salesians have a plantation of several hectares. On May 27, 10 out of the 18 neighborhoods in Goma were forced to evacuate.

A Salesian missionary said, “A miracle happened, because the lava flow from the nearby volcano stopped a few meters from the Don Bosco Ngangi Center. The conditions in which these children are housed are precarious. No water, no electricity, no space to play, and not enough food.”

The volcano had not erupted for more 19 years with the last eruption occurring on Jan. 17, 2002, when more than 100 people died and lava covered the entire eastern part of Goma. Thousands of people were forced to flee their homes, taking refuge in Gisenyi, in neighboring Rwanda, or in Sake. According to UNICEF, the latest eruption caused the deaths of 15 people, and 159 children were still missing as of the Monday after the event.

Families are receiving help from the Salesians as many who have had their homes destroyed wait to be able to start over. Hundreds of houses and goods have been reduced to ash, and many families lost the few possessions they had.

The eruption of the Nyiragongo volcano represents yet another disaster in a region that has already faced Ebola, the COVID-19 pandemic and indiscriminate killings in Ngangi, Majengo, Turunga and Buhene. Tremors continue to frighten city dwellers, especially young children and other vulnerable people.

Despite its vast material wealth, the DRC has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

Salesian missionaries have been working in the DRC for more than 100 years ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – SOS for eruption of Nyiragongo volcano in Goma

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – After volcano eruption, total evacuation of several Goma districts ordered

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Young women inspired to be leaders in traditionally male professions

MissionNewswire — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:26:58 +0000

Salesian Tuwe Wafundi School of Trades holds conference for young women leaders

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Tuwe Wafundi School of Trades, part of the Don Bosco Center in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), welcomed 21 girls and young women who asked to learn a profession traditionally reserved for males, such as bricklayer, carpenter, mechanic and welder. Recently, a conference was held for these students with Marie Claire, a woman entrepreneur who is responsible for a local carpentry workshop.

Irène Nabintu, an apprentice in automotive mechanics, said, “With her personal experiences, she told us that to live and be a female leader, we need to have some principles, some rules that we give ourselves.”

Claire said these rules included: avoiding always expecting help from others; working hard and showing that they can do it by themselves, alone: loving their profession; praying to God because it is he who comforts and gives confidence during the journey of work; and doing everything on schedule. She also cautioned the students to not envy what they don’t have.

Claire is a married, mother of nine children who are all well-educated thanks to her work. She told the students to continue their education. She said, “To qualify as boys do, intelligence and strength are needed, and to work with courage. Without disrespecting men, you can make yourself accepted as a true female leader.”

The end of the conference featured a question and answer session. One young woman noted that she’d like to work but her boyfriend is against the idea. Claire noted, “If someone loves a person, he will also love everything that she is, lives and does.” The conference program for the young woman was enlightening and encouraging to help them become future leaders in their chosen fields.

Father Piero Gavioli, director of the Salesian House in Bukavu, said, “Until a few months ago, the girls of the Tuwe Wafundi school were on the street, without a diploma, without a job and without a future. The Salesian school offers them the possibility of finding a place in society and a chance to one day become true women leaders.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Educating young people to be leaders of today and tomorrow

Don Bosco Center Bukavu Facebook

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Former street youth builds new life

MissionNewswire — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 08:27:19 +0000

Don Bosco Center provides shelter, education and family reunification for youth living on the streets

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Jean-Claude Michaël Imani is a 17-year-old young man who had a second chance at life thanks to the Don Bosco Center in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Imani had a rough childhood. His mother died when he was two months old and his father was unable to care for him. Imani went to live with his aunt, but one day when he was eight, he was visiting his father and got separated. He lived alone on the streets for the next seven years.

During those years, Imani was often brought to different shelters and centers for street children, but he had a hard time adapting. He would leave them to return to life on the streets. That all changed in April 2019 when he arrived at the Don Bosco Center, directed by Father Piero Gavioli. After a period of adaptation, he was enrolled in the Nyota Center in level two of the school remedial program for the 2019-2020 school term.

While Imani was in the program, Salesians began the work of tracking down his father. They searched in Goma where Imani had lived, but his father was still unable to care for him. However, his cousin Félicien Shukuru, who Imani had thought of as an older brother, was able to take him in. Imani was welcomed into a loving and happy home with Shukuru and his wife and children.

At the end of the school term, Imani had an 85 percent grade point average and continued on to the third level of education in Goma. Like for the other youth reintegrated into their families, the Don Bosco Center provided him with a reunion kit including a bag of clothes, hygiene kits, sheets, a blanket, and a mattress and bed.

This is one of many family reunifications that Don Bosco Center has completed. The center is located near the main town square and a prison, and it is an ideal location for missionaries to meet the many street children who spend time in the square washing cars, carrying luggage and parcels, stealing and begging. Shortly after the inception of the Don Bosco Center, a Salesian school was opened on the premises which serves the local population.

Word has spread among the local population that Salesian missionaries are there to help. While they can’t meet every request, missionaries are focused on providing for the urgent needs of the community.

“Since our arrival in Bukavu, the door of the Don Bosco Center is always open. We try to listen to those who come from outside with their problems,” said Fr. Gavioli. “Our mission here is to welcome the children in the streets and offer them free vocational training. Moreover, with our resources, we help families to pay the school fees of at least one of their children.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Jean-Claude Michaël Imani returns to family

Don Bosco Center Bukavu Facebook

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Abandoned children receive care

MissionNewswire — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 08:29:56 +0000

Salesian centers care for homeless and abandoned children in Bukavu and Goma

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Father Albert Kabuge, Salesian provincial of the Central Africa Province, recently visited Salesian programs in Bukavu and Goma and made an appeal for support for 75 abandoned children and babies living at the Ushindi Center Orphanage. These children are accessing shelter, care and basic needs, and when old enough, they will be enrolled in Salesian education.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo was plagued by intense civil war and ongoing internal conflict. As a result, there have been close to 5.4 million deaths, according to the International Rescue Committee. Most deaths resulted from non-violent causes such as malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition, all typically preventable under normal circumstances but often fatal in times of conflict. Close to 1.5 million people have been internally displaced or have become refugees in neighboring countries after having fled the country to escape the continued violence.

Children have been left abandoned or with mothers who can no longer afford to care for them. Salesian centers help to provide support and education, and in cases where children are without parents or abandoned, they provide shelter and raise children until they are self-sufficient and can be on their own.

In addition to the Ushindi Center Orphanage, Salesians also operate the Don Bosco Center Ngangi in Goma, which has been providing social development, medical and educational services to poor youth and their families since 1988.

Started first as a youth center, the Don Bosco Center expanded to provide assistance to those in the region affected by war, other violence and natural disasters. In 1997, the center added kindergarten, elementary, secondary and vocational education as well as a literacy center and medical facility.

In 2009, the Don Bosco Center Ngangi was awarded the International Award, Los Niños Primero (Children First) from the Spanish Committee of UNICEF, in recognition of its outstanding work on behalf of children and poor youth in the region of northern Kivu. In the midst of wars, violence and poverty, the Don Bosco Center welcomed, educated, cared for and supported more than 26,000 children.

“Don Bosco Center Ngangi is one of the most diverse and comprehensive Salesian organizations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Built on the grounds of a school and sports field, the center has grown to provide vocational training, refugee housing, rehabilitation for child soldiers, and programs for those needing nutritional and medical care. Programs in Goma and Bukavu struggle to meet a growing need, often with very limited resource.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – DR Congo – AFC Provincial launches appeal for solidarity for 75 abandoned children

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Over 120 poor mothers receive support for their small businesses

MissionNewswire — Mon, 30 Nov 2020 14:49:46 +0000

Don Bosco Center provides support to women who cannot pay their AVEC group dues

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) For the last two years, the Don Bosco Center, located in the city of Bukavu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has been supporting women who wish to join women’s groups run by the Association Villageoise d’Epargne et Crédit (AVEC), an association for savings and credit in the villages. The Don Bosco Center has helped create 20 groups of women, mostly mothers.

Every week, the women had been depositing 1,000 to 5,000 Congolese Francs (CF), which is roughly 60 cents, into their group’s safe, in addition to depositing another 200 CF in the solidarity fund. After a few weeks, the group members can apply for credit and receive up to 10,000 CF to help in situations of necessity such as the birth of a child, an illness or a death in the family. AVEC groups promote solidarity, teach how to manage money and savings, and give the possibility to apply for a loan to start a small business.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the conditions in the DRC have worsened and many women no longer have the money to pay their AVEC group dues. Two social workers with the Don Bosco Center in Bukavu have been trying to help.

“Nicole and Gisèle have distributed start-up aid, from $50-$150 to over 120 very poor mothers who were unable to start a small income generating business and participate fully in the AVEC group,” said Father Piero Gavioli, director of the Don Bosco Center.

Over 120 very poor mothers receive support through the Don Bosco Center in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Those who have been helped include Francoise, Esperance and Anastasie. Francoise received $80 to boost her small spice and shoe shop. As her business was progressing, she was able to help respond to the needs of her family. As the supply of spices from Rwanda became difficult with the pandemic, she began selling underwear. She is a member of the AVEC Tuamke group of Camp TV and is very grateful to the Salesians for their help.

Esperance and her husband are partners of the same AVEC group. They received $150 dollars in aid which enabled them to restart their businesses. Esperance’s husband strengthened his small resale of cigarettes and sundries business in the large market of Kadutu, and Esperance began to sell plantains at the market of Muhanzi. The confinement due to the pandemic had interrupted their activity, but now they are moving forward.

Finally, Anastasie, who is the president of her AVEC group, received a $120 sewing machine from her group. Before, group members took turns using three old machines, but now these mothers have the opportunity to use a good quality machine and sew clothes that they sell to survive.

“Mothers have thanked the Don Bosco Center for the help received. Their thanks is for the people who gave us the means to help them. May the Lord bless them,” concluded Fr. Gavioli.

Despite its vast material wealth, the DRC has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, a figure that’s expected to increase. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Don Bosco Center and AVEC groups give hope to “Mothers Courage” of Bukavu

Don Bosco Center Bukavu Facebook

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Distributing bottled drinking water to people in need

MissionNewswire — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 14:33:53 +0000

Salesian missionaries with the Assumption of Mary Province of Central Africa are supplying bottled drinking water to people in need in Lubumbashi

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Assumption of Mary Province of Central Africa, are supplying drinking water for distribution to the local population in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Father Albert Kabuge, provincial, inaugurated and blessed the new facility and thanked the benefactors for supporting the project.

The water, which has been labeled Don Bosco Water, is bottled and distributed to the local population. Many in the region lack access to clean, fresh water for drinking and proper hand hygiene. This water is vital for the local population during the pandemic.

“Salesians have answered the call for added support during the COVID-19 pandemic in communities around the globe,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Whether it’s food rations, making masks, providing sanitizer and soap, or ensuring clean water access, Salesian missionaries have assessed local needs and sprung to action, sometimes in very creative ways, to meet the need like they have done in the DRC with Don Bosco Water.”

UN-Water estimates that worldwide 2.1 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water services and by 2050, the world’s population will have grown by an estimated 2 billion people, pushing global water demand up to 30 percent higher than today. One in four primary schools has no drinking water service, with students using unprotected water sources or going thirsty. In addition, UN-Water notes that more than 700 children under 5 years of age die every day from diarrheal disease linked to unsafe water and poor sanitation.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – “Don Bosco Water” of Salesian Province of Central Africa

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Coronavirus pandemic pushing members of AVEC groups for women further into vulnerability

MissionNewswire — Mon, 29 Jun 2020 14:05:18 +0000

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) For the last two years, the Don Bosco Center, located in the city of Bukavu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has been supporting women who wish to join women’s groups run by the Association Villageoise d’Epargne et Crédit (AVEC), an association for savings and credit in the villages. The Don Bosco Center has helped create 20 groups of women, mostly mothers.

Every week, the women deposit 1,000 to 5,000 Congolese Francs (CF), which is roughly 60 cents, into their group’s safe, in addition to depositing another 200 CF in the solidarity fund. After a few weeks, the group members can apply for credit and receive up to 10,000 CF to help in situations of necessity such as the birth of a child, an illness or a death in the family.

On March 19, public authorities in the DRC imposed limitations on groups of 20 people or more from convening to help stop the spread of coronavirus. This impacted the work of AVEC groups. Some decided to suspend activities while others reduced the number of participants in the weekly meeting. These associations are an effective means of allowing members to better prepare themselves economically for a disaster such as COVID-19.

Unfortunately, most members live day by day and use the money from the AVEC group for activities that guarantee little more than survival. Members are currently having difficulty repaying their credit or putting something aside. For security reasons, some have suspended income-generating activities even if they have credit to repay. Others are prioritizing food costs.

Adidja Sikambwe, a 53-year-old member, sells fried bananas on the street. Since the pandemic started, her revenue has dropped dramatically because of the lack of customers due to the lockdown measures. The business is no longer profitable, and while she would like to change it, she lacks the means. Due to the situation, she can no longer repay her credit nor can she save money in her group.

If this situation persists, Sikambwe’s small business risks bankruptcy because she will be forced to use all her capital to meet the food needs of her family instead of on her business. Her capital now comes from a loan taken out two months ago from her AVEC group. Failure to repay the loan means committee members don’t have funds to meet the demands of other members in need of credit. There is a risk of bankruptcy for the entire group.

“Many of the women who seek to join the AVEC groups and are supported by the Don Bosco Center were already in desperate situations before the pandemic started and have been pushed now to greater vulnerability,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “The Don Bosco Center helps these women and their families by meeting their basic needs and providing education and social support. The goal is to help these women so they can recover and have an income of their own to give their children the hope of a better tomorrow.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – AVEC groups and Covid-19 pandemic in Bukavu

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Don Bosco Center is working to reunify street children with their families

MissionNewswire — Mon, 18 May 2020 14:01:03 +0000

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Center, located in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, is changing the lives of street youth through education and social programs. Daniel lived with his family in Goma. When M23 rebels occupied the city in November 2012, Daniel was just 10 years old. His family fled north, but when they were near the Virunga park, his parents decided to go back. Daniel lost contact with his family. He searched for them far and wide but did not find them.

Eventually, Daniel reached Bukavu by boat and had no one to turn to. All alone, he ended up living among the children on the streets. He transported waste and looked for abandoned pieces of iron to be sold to metal traders. One day, a friend told him they were welcoming street children to the Don Bosco Center. The friend accompanied him there and Daniel was accepted. That friend changed his life.

Daniel was part of the first group of 20 young people welcomed into a family reunification project at the Don Bosco Center, which has the support of the nongovernmental organization Louvain Coopération. The project, which started in April 2019, runs for three years and aims to reunify 20 street children with their families each year.

Father Piero Gavioli, director of the Don Bosco Center, said, “Boys and girls who are living on the streets and the margins of social life have a second chance at the Don Bosco Center. This new project also helps them to reconnect with their families if it’s possible.”

At the Don Bosco Center, Daniel had access to shelter, nutrition, education and a literacy program. Daniel adapted well and showed his desire to leave the street behind. A social worker from the Don Bosco Center searched for information about Daniel’s family. In time, they found people who knew of Daniel’s parents as well as a phone number. Daniel’s father had emigrated with his family to Nairobi, Kenya.

His father thought that Daniel was dead, but as soon as he learned he was alive, he asked Daniel to join them. After completing all of the paperwork, Daniel left for a long journey to Kenya, crossing Rwanda and Uganda. In Nairobi, he was warmly welcomed by his parents and brothers and sisters.

The director of the Salesian-run Don Bosco Boys’ Town in Nairobi agreed to include Daniel in a carpentry course so that he could continue his education. In November 2019, Daniel started the program, which finished in March 2020.

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line, living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. More than 4.1 million Congolese are displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Story of Daniel, lost and found

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: 50 children living in the Rwashi commune receive better nutrition thanks to Rise Against Hunger shipment

MissionNewswire — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 08:30:05 +0000

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Children living in Lubumbashi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, within the Rwashi commune and cared for by Solene Tshilobo, president of the Mary Help of Christians Association, had access to better nutrition thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, an international relief organization that provides food and life-changing aid to the world’s most vulnerable. The donation fed 50 children during the second quarter of 2019.

Rise Against Hunger partners with Salesian Missions, which works to identify needs and coordinate delivery of 40-foot shipping containers full of meals, supplemented with additional supplies when available. The partnership was developed in 2011 and since that time shipments have been successfully delivered to countries around the globe. The meals and life-saving aid have helped to nourish poor youth at Salesian schools and programs and care for those in need of emergency aid during times of war, natural disasters and health crises.

“The partnership with Rise Against Hunger allows Salesian Missions to expand its services for youth in need,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “Operating feeding programs and providing other life-changing supplies for youth is integral to the success of our students and their ability to gain an education.”

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. More than 4.1 million Congolese are displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries providing ongoing assistance to those most in need during the coronavirus crisis

MissionNewswire — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 14:08:13 +0000

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are working to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. After the discovery of two cases of COVID-19 in Bukavu, Salesians suspended the few activities still in progress. In addition to the school, which closed days ago, Salesians have stopped holding workshops, which had still been open in a limited way. Interns and guests of the Don Bosco Center have already returned to their families, except those who live far away or have no family ready to welcome them.

But Salesians cannot stop all work at their centers, at least for now, because of the great need in their communities. Most of the country’s population lives in very bad conditions. There is a lack of jobs, peace and support for those who live in poverty. Salesian missionaries arrived in Bukavu and launched the Don Bosco Center in 2014. The Don Bosco Center is always open and Salesians try to address the problems of those in the community.

People have been kicked out of their homes because they have not been able to pay rent. Others have had small businesses that have closed and lost capital because they got sick. There are some families who need shelter and babies who need proper nutrition. These problems are exacerbated during this time as the world responds to the coronavirus.

“For the time being, the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is less tragic than in Europe,” said Father Piero Gavioli, an Italian Salesian missionary who has served for more than 35 years in the country. “Yet one must still be careful. Already there have been about 50 cases of COVID-19 in the capital, with five or six dead. We are preparing for the worst, as we pray and hope that the worst will not happen.”

Fr. Gavioli added, “There are thousands of families around us who live day by day, who eat in the evening because their mother could sell something at the market. If markets are closed, how will they feed their children? And if they leave them open, the disease will spread. These mothers are faced with a tragic choice dying of coronavirus or starving.”

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. More than 4.1 million Congolese are displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Living confinement in Bukavu

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries launch initiative to secure mattresses, mosquito nets and sheets for children seeking shelter at Maison Papy

MissionNewswire — Tue, 21 Jan 2020 08:19:14 +0000

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have launched a new initiative to secure mattresses, mosquito nets and sheets for children who seek shelter at the Salesian Maison Papy reception center, part of the La Cité des Jeunes Don Bosco Lukunga Center. In the outskirts of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the large Salesian center was launched in 1989 and aims to help the most vulnerable children.

Don Bosco Lukunga is located in a very poor area where electricity runs in fits and starts and water is scarce. The Salesian Maison Papy reception center was named after a young boy who sought shelter at Don Bosco Lukunga, but was so gravely ill, he died shortly after in the hospital.

Youth who seek shelter at Maison Papy are the most disadvantaged in the region. Many have been accused unjustly of being sorcerers. It is estimated that over 13,000 in Kinshasa are considered sorcerers or ndoki. The children are really orphans living on the streets, minor workers and often drug-addicted.

More than 40 children, between the ages of 5 to 17 years, can stay at Maison Papy at any one time. Salesian missionaries offer them a home and education, health care and food. For many this is the first attention and affection they have received from adults. Many have never known what it’s like to be cared for and have a safe place to sleep.

“Maison Papy is a safe haven for children and older youth who have nowhere else to go and no one to take care of them,” says Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “The new initiative of having mattresses, sheets and mosquito netting is important for these children. Having a bed to sleep in is important. Youth are able to get a good night’s rest so they can be alert and ready to take part in their studies. It also provides youth, who come from impoverished backgrounds, a sense of dignity.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – Mattresses and mosquito nets for children of Papy maison

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Don Bosco Center graduates 69 students who successfully completed 14-month course

MissionNewswire — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 16:16:45 +0000

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Center, located in the city of Bukavu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has issued graduation certificates to 69 students. These graduates started coursework 14 months ago with two months of literacy training, followed by nine months of vocational training and a three-month internship. Upon graduating, the Don Bosco Center gave each graduate a tool kit to help them prepare for their employment search.

Father Piero Gavioli, director of the Don Bosco Center, said, “It is the culmination of a long road starting 14 months ago. Then these boys and girls were in the streets and on the margins of social life. Don Bosco welcomed them, gave them a trade and offered them an opportunity for a stable future. Now that they have graduated, the employment office of our school will help them in the search for a job.”

Operated by two Salesian priests and one Salesian brother, the Don Bosco Center is located near the main town square and a prison. It is an ideal location for missionaries to meet the many street children who spend time in the square washing cars, carrying luggage and parcels, stealing, and begging. Shortly after the inception of the Don Bosco Center, a Salesian school was opened on the premises which serves the local population.

“The Don Bosco Center was launched in 2014 and since that time we have chosen to offer a broad and unconditional welcome. During the day, the door of the Don Bosco Center is always open. We try to listen to those who come from outside with their problems,” added Fr. Gavioli.

He noted that people come with problems such as landlords kicking people out because they have not been able to pay rent. Others have had small businesses that have closed and lost capital because they got sick. There are families who need shelter and babies who need proper nutrition.

Salesian missionaries at the Don Bosco Center also lend support to families who cannot pay their children’s public school fees. Depending on the degree of vulnerability, the center has intervened to pay half or all the school fees for about 150 primary and secondary school children. The center also has a courtyard that allows children from the local community to come together and play year-round.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R. Congo – 69 young people towards a better future

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Don Bosco Center provides additional funding for 100 women to help them start their own businesses

MissionNewswire — Wed, 25 Dec 2019 14:52:30 +0000

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Center, located in the city of Bukavu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is supporting women who wish to join women’s groups run by the Association Villageoise d’Epargne et Crédit (AVEC), an association for savings and credit in the villages. Since July 2018, the Don Bosco Center has helped create 20 groups of women, mostly mothers.

Every week, the women deposit 1,000 to 5,000 Congolese Francs (CF), which is roughly 60 cents, into the group’s safe, in addition to depositing another 200 CF in the solidarity fund. After a few weeks, the group members can apply for credit and receive up to 10,000 CF to help in situations of necessity such as the birth of a child, an illness or a death in the family.

The Don Bosco Center has two social assistants, Gisèle Cibasa and Nicole Mapendo, who regularly attend the weekly meetings of each group and collect information on each member. They listen to each person individually, visit women’s homes and discover their stories.

The women in the groups often have great ideas and projects, but they need help to start or strengthen their activities. Many of the mothers live in difficult situations and have problems related to their children’s health, food and school.

Recently, Cibasa and Mapendo selected 100 mothers and a few dads to receive a small financial contribution from the Don Bosco Center. This will allow them to start an income-generating activity and work on becoming self-sufficient. The candidates selected are all in serious need of additional assistance.

Group member Nyassa Nyakisoka recently lost her home, and her husband is seriously ill. There is no money in the family for medicines. Bwinja Aline is fatherless, and after graduation she stopped studying to help her mother and her 11 brothers. Helene Murhula was abandoned by her husband and forced to leave her home. Her children do not go to school and she looks for a way to guarantee them a future. Didienne Mukunda is also struggling to pay her children’s school fees.

Many of the women who seek to join the AVEC groups and are supported by the Don Bosco Center are in desperate situations but must still find ways to support their families. The Don Bosco Center helps these women and their families by meeting their basic needs and providing education and social support. The goal is to help these women so they can recover and have an income of their own to give their children the hope of a better tomorrow.

“Salesian missionaries at the Don Bosco Center lend support to families who cannot pay their children’s public school fees,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Depending on the degree of vulnerability, the center has intervened to pay half or all the school fees for about 150 primary and secondary school children. The center also has a courtyard that allows children from the local community to come together and play year-round.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – Portraits of “Mother Courage”

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries prepare for start of the school year amid rising concerns of Ebola in Goma

MissionNewswire — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 14:56:39 +0000

(MissionNewswire) At the Don Bosco Ngangi youth center and technical school, located in city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Salesian missionaries are concerned about the spread of Ebola in the city and are preparing the facilities and programs in anticipation of children returning to school. Missionaries want to ensure the good health of the children, but they do face some challenges.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has noted that there are close to 3,000 cases of Ebola and 2,000 deaths recorded since the outbreak was declared in August 2018. While the majority of Ebola cases remain in DRC’s North Kivu province, the virus has spread to neighboring South Kivu province and the transit hub of Goma.

The country’s authorities confirmed that a mother and her 7-month-old child tested positive for Ebola in Mwenga, in South Kivu, which raises concerns about the risk of international expansion, due to its proximity to countries like Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania. The WHO has noted that it has vaccinated more than 1,300 people who potentially came into contact with the Ebola virus in Goma, but the concern remains.

“We are concerned about what is happening outside of our doors,” explained Salesian missionaries working in the center. “We are in touch with the people of the city, with children and young people, with their families and with employees. We cannot control that measures of prevention are applied outside. It is difficult because some people don’t believe that Ebola can affect them, and in others cases, some families can’t afford to buy disinfectants.”

Despite the authorities and health workers working tirelessly to provide information about prevention and control of the virus, the population is still not aware of the true consequences, reported the Salesians.

“In July, the first case of Ebola was confirmed in Goma, one of the most populated cities in the DRC and the alert was immediately announced,” explained Salesian missionaries who work in the city. Missionaries reported that the victim was a 46-year-old man. Since then, there have been seven positive Ebola cases in Goma, but the city’s routine has barely changed.

“Despite the efforts of the Ministry of Health and the preventive measures in place, the population does not respect the directives and does not believe what is happening,” added Salesian missionaries. “They do not believe the explanations of health personnel and do not take into account the preventive measures that are proposed to them.”

Fear in the Salesian centers of Goma is increasing, especially given that the educational centers will reopen their doors to hundreds of children and young people in September. Salesian missionaries are assessing the ongoing situation and are putting preventive measures in place within their own centers.

Salesian missionaries were also on the front lines of preventive measures during the West African Ebola outbreak of 2014, which affected Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea. The Salesian-run Don Bosco Fambul, one of Sierra Leone’s leading child-welfare organizations located in Freetown, the country’s capital city, had been on the forefront of efforts to help prevent Ebola in communities throughout Sierra Leone and provide care for children left orphaned by the deadly epidemic. The organization received Sierra Leone’s Presidential Award in recognition of its contribution in fighting Ebola.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Alert issued to prevent further Ebola infections in Goma

Reuters – WHO says no new Ebola cases in Goma, vaccinates over 1,300

SIERRA LEONE: Don Bosco Fambul Receives Sierra Leone’s Presidential Award for Its Efforts in Fighting Ebola Epidemic

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Children at the Don Bosco Clinic access better nutrition thanks to Rise Against Hunger rice-meal donation

MissionNewswire — Tue, 13 Aug 2019 13:37:43 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Children accessing medical care at the Don Bosco Clinic in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, had access to better nutrition in the first quarter of 2019 thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, an international relief organization that provides food and life-changing aid to the world’s most vulnerable. The donation was also shared with youth in the local prison and those living within the local community.

The Don Bosco Clinic provides care for children who suffer from poor nutrition. Since the Don Bosco Clinic received the Rise Against Hunger rice-meals, children have become healthier much faster. Fulbert Kyungu, who is in charge of the restoration of the Don Bosco Clinic, says, “Many parents do not work and do not know how to give the right food to their children and Rise Against Hunger rice has saved the lives of many children.”

The rice-meals were also shared with families who live in poverty in the Tabacongo district and are not able to provide food for their children. Many children in this neighborhood do not go to school. Poverty is the primary challenge and causes other problems such as disease and poor nutrition. The rice-meals were able to provide families with proper nutrition for their children.

At the juvenile prison in Lubumbashi, children are provided a meal only once a day and not every day. Onésime Kibambe, director of the prison, has noted, “Since February we have started to bring Rise Against Hunger rice to the prison. We have fed 75 young people twice a day on every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday. Since we started giving rice, these young people are happy. We have also distributed the soap that was donated through Rise Against Hunger. Children are using the soap for bathing and washing their clothes.”

Rise Against Hunger partners with Salesian Missions which works to identify needs and coordinate delivery of 40-foot shipping containers full of meals, supplemented with additional supplies when available. The partnership was developed in 2011 and since that time shipments have been successfully delivered to countries around the globe. The meals and life-saving aid have helped to nourish poor youth at Salesian schools and programs and care for those in need of emergency aid during times of war, natural disasters and health crises.

“The partnership with Rise Against Hunger allows Salesian Missions to expand its services for youth in need,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions. “Operating feeding programs and providing other life-changing supplies for youth is integral to the success of our students and their ability to gain an education.”

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of Congo for more than 100 years ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many youth the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian water project brings fresh clean water to more than 6,000 women and children in Cité Plateau III

MissionNewswire — Fri, 19 Jul 2019 17:41:39 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are providing clean water access to children and families in Cité Plateau III which is a poor and overcrowded area of Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Child labor is considered normal and the rate of schooling is extremely low. Part of the challenge is a lack of water which has created a health emergency in the area.

The only drinking water available at Cité Plateau III is distributed by a few rudimentary fountains that are fed by the same aquifer that houses wastewater. Rainwater and water that accumulates in the stone quarries scattered throughout the territory is collected by women who store the water in old, dirty containers. This water is often contaminated. Some mothers get up at 4:00 am to go and draw water from the wells of the neighboring districts, but this is not always possible.

The local population is exposed to health risks from contaminated water and severe dehydration which can lead to loss of consciousness, multiple organ failure and even death. To address the need for clean water, Salesian missionaries are drilling down 100 meters to draw on a pristine aquifer. They will then build a well that includes the installation of a submerged electric pump which will be powered by four solar panels for renewable energy.

The presence of a safe water source will prevent the spread of diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever which can be fatal for children and pregnant women. It will also contribute to improving children’s health as they are often forced to leave school to help find and carry water. In addition, it will significantly increase the quality of life of all the women in the neighborhood who will no longer be forced to travel for miles to obtain clean drinking water.

The well project will directly benefit at least 6,000 people, but at an indirect level it will do much more. The initiative provides for the direct involvement of people living in Cité Plateau III in the well’s management. An awareness-raising campaign will be launched once the inauguration takes place to train the locals on the importance of personal hygiene.

“Water is essential for life, and it’s critical that Salesian programs around the globe have access to safe, clean water for the health and safety of those we serve,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Improving water and sanitation facilities brings a sense of dignity to children and promotes proper hygiene. This reduces the number of waterborne illnesses that can affect those in our schools, keeping them away from important study time.”

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, a figure that’s expected to increase. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – A water well to change lives of mothers and children

UNICEF – DR Congo

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR CONGO: Five Salesian facilities in Lubumbashi have new irrigation systems and clean water access thanks to Salesian Missions donors

MissionNewswire — Tue, 02 Jul 2019 22:19:48 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Five Salesian facilities in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo, will have improved irrigation systems thanks to funding from Salesian Missions donors though the organization’s “Clean Water Initiative.” Salesian missionaries are working in the area to increase farming education and the potential of youth and families to improve farming practices.

The funding will provide new irrigation systems for a greenhouse and boarding house kitchen gardens. It will also fund a new transportable watering system to be used at the Salesian farming training center and replace an irrigation system at the Salesian agricultural vocational school.

“Improvements in irrigation at the Salesian facilities will provide clean water and give students and residents improved nutrition as well as increased agricultural production for greater income generation and self-sufficiency,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “We are grateful to our donors who continue to ensure that Salesian programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo and around the globe have access to clean water.”

UN-Water estimates that worldwide 2.1 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water services and by 2050, the world’s population will have grown by an estimated 2 billion people, pushing global water demand up to 30 percent higher than today. One in four primary schools have no drinking water service with students using unprotected water sources or going thirsty. In addition, UN-Water notes that more than 700 children under 5 years of age die every day from diarrheal disease linked to unsafe water and poor sanitation.

In response to this crisis, Salesian Missions has made building wells and supplying fresh, clean water a top priority for every community in every country in which Salesian missionaries work. The project in the Democratic Republic of Congo is just one of many that have been completed, with more in process.

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Sources:

Salesian Missions

UNICEF – DR Congo

World Water Day 2019

Salesian Missions – Democratic Republic of the Congo

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DR Congo: Salesian missionaries provide shelter and education for youth who face abuse, drug use and other exploitation on the streets

MissionNewswire — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 18:59:37 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have prioritized helping youth living on the streets in the city of Lubumbashi in the southeastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lubumbashi and its surrounding areas have a population close to 8.2 million with most living in poverty. While the city has wealth from both agricultural and mineral resources, it faces numerous economic and social challenges.

A simple walk along the main streets of Lubumbashi shows just how many minors are on the street instead of in school or with their parents. Children leave their homes for many reasons including divorce, family abuse and poverty, among others. Living on the streets is dangerous for these youth as they are exposed to all sorts of abuses and many are forced to turn to petty crime to survive.

Many people pity the children and are willing to help them, but their charity does not help get them off the streets. Instead, it makes their living on the streets more stable and permanent. The situation is even worse for girls who often end up in prostitution and are subjected to psychological and physical traumas with lifelong effects.

Salesian missionaries note recent assessments that indicate nearly 95 percent of street children use drugs in some form or another, including the consumption of glue, often from petrol or lacquers. Many children carry a small bottle in their hands and inhale the glue all day. When asked why, most said they want to be more lucid and strong enough to work and face the day and that they don’t want to think about the shame of having to beg.

Inhalation of glue generates dependence and causes the same problems other addictive substances do like an inability to control its use, negative effects on the brain and neurotransmitters and the likelihood of it being a gateway to other stronger substances.

Salesian missionaries encourage youth to seek the support of caring adults who can help them turn their lives around and connect them with appropriate shelter and education. In Lubumbashi, missionaries operate Bakanja Ville which is part of the local Salesian Bakanja Center for homeless children. Bakanja Ville marks the first stop in the process of welcoming children into the Salesian program, acting as a drop-in and reception center for homeless youth who are looking to escape the challenges of living on the streets.

The doors of Bakanja Ville are always open. Youth can access the program to take a shower, sleep, eat, wash their clothes and engage in activities. A personal file is opened for each young person who enters. Then, Salesian missionaries begin a search for family to see if reintegration is possible with the help of social workers. If not, youth are tracked into other Salesian programs where they can access education and have their basic needs met. Salesian missionaries also go out into the street twice a month to help connect with street children in their own environment to tell them about the program and offer them a safe place to stay.

“Children who are living on the streets experience discrimination and exclusion every day,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Children who are able to access programs that help them come in off the streets—where they face poverty and are at-risk for exploitation—have a chance at a better life. Salesian programs aim to help children live safely while getting the emotional support they need and the education that will help them live independently.”

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, a figure that’s expected to increase to 13.1 million in 2018. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – D.R Congo – “How is it possible we’ve become so indifferent to drug use by street children?”

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Women seek assistance from Don Bosco Center to join AVEC groups for business start-up support

MissionNewswire — Sat, 11 May 2019 16:19:17 +0000

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Center, located in the city of Bukavu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is supporting women who wish join women’s groups run by the Association Villageoise d’Epargne et Crédit (AVEC), an association for savings and credit in the villages.

Participants in the AVEC women’s groups agree to deposit 1000 Congolese Francs (about 0.60 Euro) in a common fund each week and 200 Congolese Francs in a solidarity fund in the event of illness and death. The group participants can then apply for credit to start a small business to earn an income that will meet the needs of their families. Many women who are unable to come up with the initial funding to be a part of the group seek financial assistance and other support from the Don Bosco Center.

One of the participants, Adela, who is the mother of six children, lives in a small two-room house made of hard-packed earth. Three of her children are struggling to fund their studies and one school age child stays at home due to lack of money. Her husband was in the military and is still hospitalized after an accident he had in 2015. Adela used to sell charcoal in the neighborhood but had to use all her capital to pay for the children’s school. Currently, she is waiting for her husband’s salary to resume her business.

Another participant, Elizabeth, farms the land and is a war widow. She gave birth to eight children but only one daughter survives today who is also a widow. Elizabeth lives with her daughter and her 10 grandchildren, two of whom receive services from the Don Bosco Center. Their house is in poor condition and they lack furniture. Elizabeth joined the AVEC group to increase her business of selling beans in order to give more money to her grandchildren.

Another woman, Florentine, has also joined the AVEC group. She lived in Burega with her husband until he was killed in the Kasika massacre. Their house was burned and Florentine had to flee with her seven children. She was also a victim of sexual abuse and benefited from assistance at the Panzi hospital. She now lives in a small rented house but risks eviction and does not have anywhere else to go. One of her children lives on the street and another has disappeared. Florentine used to sell fuel but currently doesn’t have the money to continue.

Many of the woman who seek to join the AVEC groups and are supported by the Don Bosco Center are in desperate situations but must still find ways to support their families. The Don Bosco Center helps these women and their families by meeting their basic needs and providing education and social support.

“Salesian missionaries at the Don Bosco Center lend support to families who cannot pay their children’s public school fees,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Depending on the degree of vulnerability, the center has intervened to pay half or all the school fees for about 150 primary and secondary school children. The center also has a courtyard which allows children from the local community to come together and play year-round.”

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, a figure that’s expected to increase to 13.1 million in 2018. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Adela, Elizabeth, Florentine … Stories of “Mothers Courage”

UNICEF – DRC Poverty

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DR CONGO: Youth at Chem Chem Youth Center have access to clean, safe water through Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative”

MissionNewswire — Tue, 16 Apr 2019 19:52:43 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Children, young mothers and pregnant women now have access to safe, clean drinking water thanks to a water project funded by donors through Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.” The project is impacting 150 youth living at the Salesian Chem Chem Youth Center, located in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the surrounding population of more than 2,000.

The project sought funds to drill a motorized well, build supports for plastic tanks and install a solar-powered immersion pump. With the project complete, young women and children will no longer have to travel far distances in search of clean water. This water project is the second to take place at the Chem Chem center. In 2017, funding was provided to upgrade the existing water system at the agriculture training center at Chem Chem to allow proper quantities of clean water for students. This was accomplished by deepening the existing well, erecting a water tower and installing two 2,500-liter water tanks.

Those attending the Chem Chem Youth Center are youth who are unable to finish normal training in secondary schools and who are unable to find a job. Without living at the center and accessing education, particularly farming education, they would not have the opportunity to prepare for the future and find stable employment.

UN-Water estimates that worldwide 2.1 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water services and by 2050, the world’s population will have grown by an estimated 2 billion people, pushing global water demand up to 30 percent higher than today. One in four primary schools have no drinking water service, with students using unprotected water sources or going thirsty. In addition, UN-Water notes that more than 700 children under 5 years of age die every day from diarrheal disease linked to unsafe water and poor sanitation.

In response to this crisis, Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has made building wells and supplying fresh, clean water a top priority for every community in every country in which Salesian missionaries work. The project in the Democratic Republic of Congo is just one of many that have been completed, with more in process.

“Water is essential for life, and it’s critical that Salesian programs around the globe have access to safe, clean water for the health and safety of those we serve,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions. “Improving water and sanitation facilities brings a sense of dignity to children and ensures that teachers and students are working and learning in an environment that promotes proper hygiene and has safe drinking water. This reduces the number of waterborne illnesses that can affect those in our schools, keeping them away from important study time.”

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Sources:

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

Salesian Missions

UNICEF – DR Congo

World Water Day 2019

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries help ensure youth affected by devastating fire are able to attend school

MissionNewswire — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 20:54:11 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have been providing support to families who lost everything when a devastating fire broke out in the Nyalukemba neighborhood in the city of Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The fire destroyed more than 300 houses that had been built with wooden planks and were very close together. With the agreement of the diocesan Caritas, Salesian missionaries decided to help families who needed to pay school fees for their children to attend primary school.

“I wrote to various friends in Europe, asking for help for the families who lost everything in the fire. I received a beautiful response of generosity,” says Father Piero Gavioli, a Salesian missionary who has been in the country for more than 35 years. “The leaders of the Christian communities in these districts carried out a serious survey in houses and schools, and drew up a list of children to be helped.”

The Don Bosco Center, which opened in 2014 in Bukavu, took in 100 minors. Recently, a social worker with the Don Bosco Center visited the families affected by the fire and were able to see that some families had received materials or money and had begun to rebuild their houses. Since the local authorities had not taken measures to help the inhabitants build according to the standards of urban planning regulations, the same mistakes that were made in the past have been repeated.

“Dad built a house out of sheet metal in which we spend the night, but in very difficult conditions, without a bed, mattress or good blankets. It is rather cold,” says Lea, a 12 year old and the sixth of nine children.

Another youth, Ahana Babwine, who is 10 years old and the eighth of ten children notes, “With help received in aid-in-kind and money, my father rebuilt the house, but it is not yet finished or furnished. We are already living there but it is tough.”

The families who have returned to their homes face many difficulties. Many houses are made of tin and the rooms are not separated by solid walls. Many have no furniture or furnishings. When it rains, residents become victims of flooding because the district is on swampy ground and not appropriate for building on.

Because of these challenging conditions, missionaries at the Don Bosco Center have preferred to invest in a school for the children. Thanks to national and international donors, almost all the children of the district are enrolled in school. The hope is that with education, youth will be able build a better future for themselves and their families.

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, a figure that’s expected to increase to 13.1 million in 2018. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Solidarity in support of education for families affected by the fire last August

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries provide financial aid for school and other critical services at the Don Bosco Center in Bukavu

MissionNewswire — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 20:57:27 +0000

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Center opened in 2014 in the city of Bukavu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Operated by two Salesian priests and one Salesian brother, the center is located near the main town square and a prison and is an ideal location for missionaries to meet the many street children who spend time in the square washing cars, carrying luggage and parcels, stealing and begging. Shortly after the inception of the Don Bosco Center, a Salesian school was opened on the premises which serves the local population.

“The country is in very bad condition,” wrote bishops of the Democratic Republic of the Congo about a year ago. “Most of the country’s population lives in very bad conditions. There is an obvious lack of jobs, peace, a fair and just distribution of wealth and support for the less fortunate people.”

Salesian Father Piero Gavioli has said, “Since our arrival in Bukavu just over three years ago, we have chosen to offer a broad and unconditional welcome. During the day, the door of the Don Bosco Center is always open. We try to listen to those who come from outside with their problems.”

He notes that people come with problems such as landlords kicking people out because they have not been able to pay rent. Others have had small businesses that have closed and lost capital because they got sick. There are families who need shelter and babies who need proper nutrition.

“Our mission here is to welcome the children in the streets and offer them free vocational training. Moreover, with our resources, we help families to pay the school fees of at least one of their children,” said Fr. Gavioli. “We helped 507 school children in the 2017-18 school year. But we cannot satisfy all the demands of the poor families of Bukavu.”

Rebecca, the mother of eight children and a widow, asked for help for her youngest son, Joseph, who was born with hydrocephalus. The operation to treat him cost $500 and Rebecca had no way of paying for it. Seeking help at the Don Bosco Center, she found that the Salesian missionaries there were willing to fund half the amount. The other half was provided by a relative of Rebecca. The operation was successful. Rebecca continues to carry bags of coal and wood on her back to bring in money to feed her children and help pay for at least one of her daughters to go to school.

Salesian missionaries at the Don Bosco Center lend support to families who cannot pay their children’s public school fees. Depending on the degree of vulnerability, the center has intervened to pay half or all the school fees for about 150 primary and secondary school children. The center also has a courtyard which allows children from the local community to come together and play year-round.

Chantal, who is 24 years old, also sought help at the Don Bosco Center. She is one of seven daughters and lost her father by the age of 14. Thanks to the hard work of her mother and several benefactors, she was successful in her studies. But when her mother died last year, she risked having to leave school after having reached the sixth year of medical training. Salesian missionaries paid a portion of her school taxes and helped her to get an exemption from payment and a scholarship.

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, a figure that’s expected to increase to 13.1 million in 2018. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – “They knocked on our door …”

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian missionaries at Bakanja Ville work to help youth living on the streets access shelter and education

MissionNewswire — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 13:23:42 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have prioritized working with youth living on the streets in the city of Lubumbashi in the southeastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lubumbashi and its surrounding areas have a population close to 8.2 million with most living in poverty. While the city has both agricultural and mineral resource wealth, it faces numerous economic and social challenges.

More than 60 percent of the population is less than 20 years old. A large percentage of children and young adults have dropped out of school because they are unable to pay for tuition, uniforms and school supplies. This leaves many young adults unemployed and living on the streets, often with only market stalls and cardboard boxes for shelter.

Many youth, even those as young as 7 years old, have grown accustomed to living on the streets. Some left home because they were kicked out, others ran away from violence and still others left seeking a better life. Salesian missionaries have noted that these street children build small autonomous communities. They have their freedom but often have to beg or steal to survive. Many of these children come from other regions and when they return to their homes, bring back what they learned on the streets in Lubumbashi, encouraging new and similar behavior by others.

Salesian missionaries encourage youth to seek the support of caring adults who can help them turn their lives around and connect them with appropriate shelter and education. In Lubumbashi, missionaries operate Bakanja Ville which is part of the local Salesian Bakanja Center for homeless children. Bakanja Ville marks the first stop in the process of welcoming children into the Salesian program, acting as a drop-in center and reception center for homeless youth who are looking to escape the challenges of living on the streets.

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, a figure that’s expected to increase to 13.1 million in 2018. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Does charity for beggars really help them or helps them stay on the street?

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian Missions donor funding helps to expand classrooms and provide nutritional assistance for poor students

MissionNewswire — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 15:57:09 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Thanks to donor funding through Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, youth at three Salesian centers in the Democratic Republic of Congo benefited from improved school conditions. Students attending the Don Bosco Vocational Center in Uvira and younger children at the Primary School Saint Kiwanuka/Kingabwa have improved classrooms and materials while students at the Don Bosco Center Ngangi have better nutrition.

The Don Bosco Vocational Center needs to upgrade dated classrooms and expand programs to accommodate more students. There is a real need in the area for vocational and life skills training opportunities to empower poor young women. Many of the vocational center’s students are former child soldiers, street children, children accused of witchcraft, abused women and single mothers who have had their rights violated and have been denied a chance to gain an education. All are particularly vulnerable to violence and exploitation.

Donor funding will be used to expand existing programs and provide tuition for three years for 250 students. It will also be used to support the purchase of new equipment and books used in the classroom as well as update teacher training.

“Expansion to this vocational school is critical because most of these young people have very limited education,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “They have attended a few years of primary school and then left because their circumstances didn’t allow them to continue in school. Salesian missionaries started the educational project so youth and single mothers could learn a trade and gain employment to break the cycle of poverty and become contributing members of their community.”

At the Primary School Saint Kiwanuka/Kingabwa donor funding was used to construct four new classrooms. These new classrooms will provide many more poor children in the community an education and a chance for a better life. Children who attend school regularly are more likely to stay away from the dangers of the streets.

Donor funding also helped support better nutrition at Don Bosco Center Ngangi, located in the eastern city of Goma. The center has been providing social development, medical and educational services to poor youth and their families since 1988. Currently, there are more than 4,600 people accessing the center’s services. The center owns a large farm which is used to grow food for the community. Funding will be used to supplement the program by providing prepared meals for 300 children and supporting the farm, making the center more self-sustainable in the future.

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of Congo for more than 100 years ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Salesian primary and secondary schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs offer many the opportunity for a stable and productive future.

The country has been plagued by intense civil war and internal conflict since the outbreak of fighting in 1998. As a result, there have been close to 5.4 million deaths, according to the International Rescue Committee. Most deaths resulted from non-violent causes such as malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition, all typically preventable under normal circumstances but often fatal in times of conflict. Close to 1.5 million people have been internally displaced or have become refugees in neighboring countries after having fled the country to escape the continued violence.

Youth make up about 19 percent of the country’s population but account for 47 percent of deaths during this conflict. Poverty is rampant, according to UNICEF, and 72 percent of rural households and 59 percent of urban households are poor. Nearly 40 percent of children under five suffer from chronic malnutrition and most of the population lives with moderate to serious food insecurity. The 2013 Human Development Index ranked the Democratic Republic of Congo 186 out of 187 countries and territories listed.

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Sources:

Salesian Missions Projects

UNICEF – DR Congo

The post DR CONGO: Salesian Missions donor funding helps to expand classrooms and provide nutritional assistance for poor students first appeared on MissionNewswire.

DR CONGO: Salesian oratory serving more than 800 youth develops music and sports programming

MissionNewswire — Sat, 21 Jul 2018 16:13:04 +0000

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian oratory, Michele Rua, located in Masina, a municipality in the capital city of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, has launched a new music and sports program. Kinshasa has nearly 11 million inhabitants with many children and older youth in need of education and support. Youth are often living on the streets or their families are too poor to pay for school. They have limited means of advancing in life and breaking the cycle of poverty.

Salesian missionaries are trying to address these needs through their six centers within Kinshasa. The Michele Rua oratory has become a place of refuge and support for nearly 800 boys and girls aged 7 to 15 years in the densely-populated, working-class neighborhood of Masina which is currently experiencing socio-economic difficulties. Given the needs in the community, Salesian missionaries anticipate that the number of youth participating in their programs will rise.

Missionaries are in the process of developing both music and sports programs. The goal is to offer these programs to provide recreation opportunities with peers and to teach additional skills outside of a formal educational setting. In order to set up the programs effectively, Salesian missionaries are currently working to raise funding and seek donations to provide the necessary equipment like musical instruments, sports uniforms, whistles, soccer balls, basketballs and handballs. Once the equipment is secured, the programs will be fully launched within the oratory.

Sports are an integral component of Salesian programs. Safe recreational activities and team sports encourage physical health, foster community spirit and help keep kids off the street and deter them from joining gangs.

“Sports programs teach youth both on and off the field,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Learning and playing team sports encourages leadership skills as well as teaches youth to work as part of a team. Students also learn important social skills and have opportunities for growth and maturity.”

Despite its vast material wealth, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been a very poor nation. Half of the country’s population lives below the poverty line, living on less than $1 a day, especially those in rural communities. Because of ongoing strife and violence within the country, more than 8.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, a figure that’s expected to increase to 13.1 million in 2018. More than 4.1 million Congolese are now displaced, with 620,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries. More than 7.5 million people do not have enough food to eat.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Music and sports for Masina children

UNICEF – DR Congo

Any goods, services or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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DR CONGO: New project helps mothers learn farming techniques to launch small farms to aid in self-sufficiency

MissionNewswire — Thu, 24 May 2018 14:06:46 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Mont Ngafula, a municipality of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), have launched a new project to help women of the parish start small agricultural activities that generate income. The small town of Mont Ngafula is isolated because there is no roadway that connects it to the city. This causes some of the economic challenges. There is also a lack of water and electricity and few jobs for the residents. Families have difficulty meeting their basic needs in the community due to its many challenges.

Inside the Don Bosco mission’s grounds there are already small plots of land set aside for the production of vegetables, fruit and cereals, as well as for breeding small farm animals. All of these farming activities contribute to the sustenance of families. Empowered by this experience, the women have set the goal of achieving food self-sufficiency through the cultivation of vegetables that, once the gardens are fully operational, can be sold to the market.

To launch this project, Salesian missionaries will provide modern and integrated training for women in the agricultural sciences. Within a year, the goal is for 80 percent of participants to be able to benefit from a supply of seeds and tools to renew cultivation in their own gardens. Then, after the harvest, they will be able to reimburse Salesian missionaries for the loan of the means of production, delivering to them 20 percent of the vegetables to feed orphans who are guests of the Maison Papy community, another structure within the mission.

At the same time, Salesian missionaries will work to increase the capacity of the current water well so that the issue of water scarcity will be addressed. In the long term, the community of Mont Ngafula will be able to extend the cultivated land and produce vegetables that can be sold in the city. This will also ensure that 107 families will have a more stable income and be able to pay for their children’s studies.

“This project is the perfect example of how Salesian missionaries are able to impact whole communities. Mothers are able to access training and initial support to launch small farms, which will then support their families and give back to their communities,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian missionaries provide education and workforce development paired with other social services to help poor youth and their families break the cycle of poverty and have hope for the future.”

The DRC has been plagued by intense civil war and internal conflict since the outbreak of fighting in 1998. As a result, there have been close to 5.4 million deaths, according to the International Rescue Committee. Most deaths resulted from non-violent causes such as malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition, all typically preventable under normal circumstances but often fatal in times of conflict. Close to 1.5 million people have been internally displaced or have become refugees in neighboring countries after having fled their own country to escape the continued violence.

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Sources:

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – Development and food self-sufficiency: mothers as protagonists

UNICEF – DR Congo

ANS photo

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DR CONGO: Salesian staff at Bakanja Ville helps to reunify one young boy with his family

MissionNewswire — Fri, 12 Jan 2018 14:21:30 +0000

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run Bakanja Ville is part of the local Salesian Bakanja Center for homeless children in the city of Lubumbashi in the southeastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the first stop in the process of welcoming children into the Salesian program. It acts as a drop-in center and reception center for homeless youth who are looking to escape their challenging life on the streets.

While the city of Lubumbashi has both agricultural and mineral resource wealth, the area faces numerous economic and social challenges. The city and surrounding areas have close to 8.2 million people, most living in poverty. More than 60 percent of the population is less than 20 years old. A large percentage of children and young adults have dropped out of school because they are unable to pay for tuition, uniforms and school supplies. This leaves many young adults unemployed and living on the streets. Often their only shelter is the market stalls and cardboard boxes.

The doors of Bakanja Ville are always open. Youth can access the program to take a shower, sleep, eat, wash their clothes and engage in activities. A personal file is opened for each young person. Then Salesian missionaries begin a search for the family to see if reintegration is possible with the help of social workers. Salesian missionaries also go out into the street twice a month to help connect with street children in their own environment to tell them about the program and offer them a safe place to stay.

“Children who are living on the streets experience discrimination and exclusion every day,” says Father Mark Hyde, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Children who are able to access programs that help youth come in off the streets—where they face poverty and are at-risk for exploitation—have a chance at a better life. Salesian programs aim to help children live safely while getting the emotional support they need and the education that will help them live independently.”

For one young boy named Joseph, Bakanja Ville was the lifeline he needed to reconnect with his mother.

“Joseph arrived at Bakanja Ville last May,” says Delphine Morin, a volunteer at the center. “A street kid found Joseph and took him to the center. The child was in a bad state. He had continuous epileptic seizures, which left him weakened and frightened, and a nasty wound to the tibia that prevented him from walking. Communication with him was not at all easy. Joseph has a development disability that limited his ability to speak and explain what had happened to him.”

At first Joseph slept a great deal to recover from the epileptic episodes and to heal his leg. With the help and work of many people, Joseph healed and started to feel better. At Bakanja Ville he was given a cure to control and reduce his epileptic episodes until they disappeared completely.

During his recovery, social workers tried to establish a dialogue with him, but Joseph insisted only on repeating “Mwambui” when he was asked about his mother, a term that in the local language refers to a woman who has had twins.

Elie, a young boy recently welcomed at the center, said he knew Joseph’s mother, a street vendor at M’zee Kabila’s market. For days, social workers went out to look for her, but without any positive result. Another newcomer to Bakanja Ville said he knew Joseph and his family as he had been a neighbor. The social workers went back out with this new information, and in the end, they managed to track down Joseph’s family.

The mother, who had thought her son was dead, was now being reunited with him. Joseph had wandered away from home and could not find his way back. It was through the help and determination of the staff at the Bakanja Ville that Joseph received the care and treatment he needed and was able to reunify with his family.

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Sources:

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – Portrait of young Joseph

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Don Bosco Center provides assistance to families in need of shelter and basic needs

MissionNewswire — Mon, 11 Dec 2017 01:08:12 +0000

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Center opened in 2014, in the city of Bukavu in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Operated by two Salesian priests and one Salesian brother, the center is located near the main town square and a prison, giving missionaries the ideal location to meet the many street children who spend time in the square washing cars, carrying luggage and parcels, stealing and begging. Shortly after the inception of the Don Bosco Center, a Salesian school was opened on the premises which serves the local population.

The word has spread among the local population that Salesian missionaries are there to help. While they can’t meet every request, missionaries are focused on providing for the urgent needs within the community. One woman, known locally as Mother Teresa, sought out support from the Don Bosco Center for her family.

Teresa, born in Burundi, has never been to school. When she was 6 years old, she lost her father and started working on a farm in the countryside. At 14, she was persuaded to take a trip to Bukavu for a visit, but later realized the trip was for her to be handed over to a Congolese man who forced her to be his wife.

After she gave birth to nine children, three of whom died at an early age, she was abandoned by her husband, who had been a violent man. Teresa then started a small business, but the little capital she had was lost after an illness. Like many other women, she started carrying sandbags on her back for building houses to earn a meager wage. After doing this job for a few years, she fell ill again and was no longer able to work, or pay rent and school fees for her children. The three older boys left home to search for their father. She stayed with her two young daughters and youngest son who has a disability. It was then Teresa was connected to the Don Bosco Center.

“When she came to ask us for help, she spent the night in a small shack and her daughters, who had just finished primary school, collected plastic bottles and filled them with tap water for the women who then sold them at the market, receiving in return just a few pieces of cassava,” says Father Piero Gavioli, a Salesian priest who has spent 33 years in the DRC as a missionary.

Not being able to host the entire family at the Don Bosco Center due to the lack of space, Fr. Gavioli helped Teresa by renting a room, putting in two mattresses, getting medical care for her and her disabled son, finding a school for two of the girls and giving her a small sum of money so she could start selling beans. The two daughters were welcomed in the Salesian cutting and sewing course. The support by the Don Bosco Center has allowed the family to start over in a safe and secure setting.

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Sources:

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – The Story of Mother Teresa

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian Priest Helps Street Youth Connect to Long-term Rehabilitation Programs

MissionNewswire — Sat, 25 Nov 2017 19:24:11 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Father Eric Meert, a Belgian Salesian priest, is one of the leaders of the Opera Mamma Margherita program operating in Lubumbashi, the second-largest city in the southeastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Fr. Meert contacts local street children within the city offering them shelter, education and reunification with their families, if possible.

Street children in Lubumbashi are often driven out of their homes because they are accused of witchcraft or theft. Some move away because their families cannot care for them because of poverty. They are left to become street children in the slums and in the marketplaces, sleeping and living in the open, exposed to all forms of danger and violence.

When Fr. Meert first approaches the youth, he must be careful to show interest in them and their stories of how they arrived on the streets. Once he is able to gain their trust, Fr. Meert can invite them to come to Bakanja Ville, the Salesian center for homeless children. It is essential that the decision to go to the Salesian center be made by the children. The choice of a new life must come from them. When the children take this step, they receive first aid and a shower, and can play in a safe place.

If youth express that they want to leave street life permanently, they are able to go to one of the Salesian rehabilitation centers that operate in the city. Once in the Salesian centers of Michael Magone or Cité des Jeunes, youth are able to access literacy classes, schooling, psychological and spiritual care, and later technical and vocational training.

“The goal of the program is to first and foremost help children come in off the streets into a safe environment where they can access shelter and food and connect with caring adults,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian missionaries will try to reunite youth with their families, if possible. If not and the child is willing, they will be placed in a long-term program where their basic needs are met and they can attend school to one day become contributing members of their community.”

The DR Congo has been plagued by intense civil war and internal conflict since the outbreak of fighting in 1998. As a result, there have been close to 5.4 million deaths, according to the International Rescue Committee. Most deaths resulted from nonviolent causes such as malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition, all typically preventable under normal circumstances but often fatal in times of conflict. Close to 1.5 million people have been internally displaced or have become refugees in neighboring countries after having fled the country to escape the continued violence.

Young people make up about 19 percent of the country’s population but account for 47 percent of deaths during the conflict. Poverty is rampant, according to UNICEF, and 72 percent of rural households and 59 percent of urban households are poor. Nearly 40 percent of children under five suffer from chronic malnutrition and most of the population lives with moderate to serious food insecurity. The 2014 Human Development Index ranked the DR Congo 176 out of 188 countries and territories listed.

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Sources:

PHOTO Courtesy Missioni Don Bosco / ANS

ANS – Democratic Republic of Congo – Rehabilitation of “shégués” – street children

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Don Bosco Center provides education and supportive services to at-risk and disadvantaged youth

MissionNewswire — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 14:00:09 +0000

(MissionNewswire) In 2014, Salesian missionaries opened Don Bosco Center in the city of Bukavu located in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Operated by two Salesian priests and one Salesian brother, the center is located near the main town square and a prison, giving missionaries the ideal location to meet the many street children who spend time in the square washing cars, carrying luggage and parcels, stealing and begging. Shortly after the inception of the Don Bosco Center, a Salesian school was opened on the premises which serves the local population.

At the end of the 2016-2017 school year at the Salesian-run Tuwe Wafundi Vocational School 54 apprentices obtained their licenses or certificates in order to utilize their skills in the workforce. During the school year, Salesian missionaries also launched new courses in repair work and welding and, for young women, a new experimental course in fashion hair styling. The goal of the school is to give students from disadvantaged backgrounds a chance to gain an education and have employable skills so they can take care of themselves and give back to their communities.

To better support youth seeking work, Don Bosco Center opened a job recruitment office. The coordinator of the project helps graduating students now looking for work. Of the 42 apprentices awarded their certificates in 2016, the coordinator found that almost all the bricklayers and carpenters found employment. The mechanics had more difficulty. The coordinator also helps to make first introductions for graduates. The coordinator also contacted owners of workshops, companies and building sites to ask these businesses if they could accommodate the 2016-17 finalists for a three-month internship. The coordinator also hosted an information and exchange meeting at the Don Bosco Center between 20 graduates and employers.

“All youth deserve a second chance in life and to feel safe and be valued members of their community,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Students supported by the Don Bosco Center have a real opportunity to gain an education, connect with their peers, and gain the work and social skills needed for long-term employment.”

Last year, the Don Bosco Center signed a memorandum of understanding with the Provincial Division of Justice of South Kivu, along with a protocol of cooperation with the Tribunal for the Minors of Bukavu, to take in 10 minors in conflict with the law and 30 children into the Salesian trade school. This collaboration allows students who need extra support to obtain it from trusting adults while receiving education tailored to meet their needs.

Salesian missionaries at Don Bosco Center also support youth by supporting families who cannot pay their children’s public school fees. Depending on the degree of vulnerability, the center has intervened to pay half or all the school fees for about 150 primary and secondary school children. The center also has a courtyard, which accommodates children from the local community to come together and play year-round. This year, a project funded by Germany allowed the center to turn the school yard into a volleyball court. Having a cemented courtyard is a rare treasure in Bukavu. Sometimes Salesian missionaries utilize the space for volleyball games, but also for other sporting and cultural activities.

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Sources:

ANS – D.R. Congo – Don Bosco Bukavu: evaluation of two years of activity

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Don Bosco Center provides shelter and education to youth living on the streets

MissionNewswire — Thu, 21 Sep 2017 16:35:18 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Father Piero Gavioli deals with the harsh reality of the growing number of street children in the city of Bukavu located in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In 2014, in order to address some of the needs of these youth, Salesian missionaries opened the Don Bosco Center. Operated by two Salesian priests and one Salesian brother, the center is located near the main town square and a prison, giving missionaries the ideal location to meet the many street children who spend time in the square washing cars, carrying luggage and parcels, stealing and begging.

Shortly after the inception of the Don Bosco Center, a Salesian school was opened on the premises which serves the local population. Beginning with a remedial education with a focus on literacy, the school works to raise its students’ knowledge base in order to prepare them for advanced skill training. Within the first two months of the school’s opening, its first students had advanced to learning French and computer skills and then commenced professional training. The school program includes a daily meal for each student as well as sports that are offered twice a week. The current curriculum spans eight months and graduates trained carpenters, builders and drivers.

In addition to the school, Don Bosco Center offers sports and games four afternoons each week for 100 young people from the community. It also provides French language lessons once a week to more than 50 area youth. The resident Salesian brother at the center participates in Sunday activities in the prison chaplaincy, a well-organized group of religious and lay people who work compassionately with the prison population. Missionaries at the center have been asked to help educate 30 of the younger prisoners so that upon release, they will be able to learn a trade and become productive members of society.

Ishara is one of the youth who benefited from the center. He was born in 1998, the sixth of nine children. Two are already married and one is a single mom. His family lives in Ciriri, on the mountain in a house with mud walls that risk collapse. He is almost an hour and a half walk from the Don Bosco Center. The father abandoned the family and remarried. The mother tries to earn a meager wage to pay for children’s school fees by carrying bags on her head or back.

Ishara tried to make ends meet on his own by selling toys on the street after school, but in the second year of junior high, an accident caused him to lose the money he had saved. He was forced to leave the school and spend entire days on the street. It was then Ishara connected with the Don Bosco Center. He was among the first to enroll in literacy and vocational courses.

Starting with two months of school refresher courses and following the orientation test, he was assigned to the carpentry course. After he reached the end of the year’s courses, Ishara received his certification and completed the three-month internship. He is currently working with an experienced carpenter who has opened a small neighborhood workshop. Ishara already manages to do a lot of work and has started earning some money. He is now able to buy clothes and contribute to his family. The Don Bosco Center is still actively helping Ishara, teaching him how to budget his income and plan for the future.

DRC has been plagued by intense civil war and internal conflict since the outbreak of fighting in 1998. As a result, there have been close to 5.4 million deaths, according to the International Rescue Committee. Most deaths resulted from non-violent causes such as malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition, all typically preventable under normal circumstances but often fatal in times of conflict. Close to 1.5 million people have been internally displaced or have become refugees in neighboring countries after having fled the country to escape the continued violence.

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Sources:

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – Ishara’s story, a boy in the street

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: VIA Don Bosco Helps Educate and Support 1,000 Congolese Youth Each Year

MissionNewswire — Fri, 23 Jun 2017 16:30:06 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was the first partner country of the Belgian Salesian organization Via Don Bosco. The organization is active in the field of education and training and supports the employment of young graduates from local Salesian professional schools. More than 70 percent of youth between the ages of 15 and 24 in DRC do not have a job. They are unable to find work and are turning to the black market and petty criminal behavior to help support themselves.

In addition, due to lack of education and often accompanied by frustration and low self-esteem, many young people who do have jobs struggle with communicating any issues they have in the workplace. They don’t possess the interpersonal and social skills to keep their jobs and often turn to aggressive behavior when things don’t go their way. Through training programs and social skills workshops, VIA Don Bosco is supporting more than 1,000 young Congolese students each year, providing a combination of a stable environment and adequate training that gives them the opportunity to become calm and feel appreciated. Their Salesian education allows them to acquire a set of values and skills to make them better integrated into society.

VIA Don Bosco is also working to make relationships within the employment sectors to help students transition from the classroom into the workplace. The Salesian organization has set up partnerships with local businesses so students can take part in internships and get a feel for the different companies and their internal operations. Thanks to these partnerships, new agriculture and carpentry courses have also been modified in such a way as to be more responsive to the demands of the labor market.

Independent evaluations of the program show that young people from Salesian schools are considered honest, reliable tolerant, and communicative. It’s been noted that students have the right attitude and work ethic coupled with solid technical knowledge, which impresses employers. Building off this work, VIA Don Bosco started a school business where students learn about running a business while generating profits for the school itself, which improves its services.

“All youth deserve a second chance in life and to feel safe and be valued members of their community,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Students supported by VIA Don Bosco have a real opportunity to gain an education, connect with their peers, and gain the work and social skills needed for long-term employment.”

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Sources:

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – Supporting employment

UNICEF – DR Congo

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GLOBAL: Five New Salesian Projects Start with Funding from Schneider Electric Foundation

MissionNewswire — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 16:44:51 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Thanks to a collaboration between the Salesian Institute in Rome, Italy and Schneider Electric Foundation, five international projects run by Salesian technical and professional schools aimed at sustainable human and social development will be funded with a total donation of 2 million euro. Schneider Electric Foundation is the charitable arm of Schneider Electric, a European multinational corporation that specializes in electricity distribution, automation management and the production of installation components for energy management.

Collaboration between the Salesian programs and Schneider Electric was formed 16 years ago. The contract between the two organizations was initiated between CNOS-FAP (National Center of Salesian Works – Professional Training and Upgrading) and Schneider Electric. Father Luigi Enrico Peretti, the general director of CNOS-FAP noted that the collaboration is very strong because it is based on common principles and perspectives with the goal of training youth for the workforce.

“Schneider Electric is proud to work with the Salesian Congregation through training programs for local instructors and students from more disadvantaged contexts,” said Gilles Vermot Desroches, senior vice president of sustainability at Schneider Electric.

The goal of the new projects is to generate sustainable development by creating opportunities for social advancement for disadvantaged youth in the regions where the programs will take place. In the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a project will be started at the Ngagi Professional Training Center to teach students about solar energy. The project will also include work placement and the installation of solar panels to generate electricity for the whole structure.

In Pingull Kudal, India, funding from this project will update the equipment in the laboratory of the local Professional Training Center to offer students the opportunity to work in more modern facilities. In Haiti, a project will offer training courses for teachers, new equipment for laboratories, technical materials for students and a new system of electricity supply. In Maputo, Mozambique, funding will allow the purchase of new equipment and materials for students and an energy update program will be set up for teachers and students. The fifth project funded will take place in southern Italy and provide apprenticeship courses in the subjects of innovation 4.0, covering electricity, electronics and renewable energies.

“Collaborative partnerships between Salesian missionaries and corporations are essential to help us meet our mission to provide education and social development programs to poor youth around the globe,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian missionaries provide technical and professional training for future electricians in many Salesian schools. The Schneider Electric partnership allows us to have up-to-date training materials and equipment available for our students along with professional training support in our classrooms.”

Through the Schneider Electrical Foundation more than 10,000 students have received electrician training in Salesian programs in India, Latin America and Europe since 2009. In addition to providing education, Salesian training programs help students connect to internships that allow them to apply lessons learned in the classroom to real-life work environments.

“Salesian programs educate poor youth who would otherwise have few opportunities for education and employment,” adds Fr. Hyde. “Having access to professionals in the field gives our students an advantage not only in the classroom but in the workforce as well.”

Salesian missionaries are also actively engaged in building hospitals, schools and youth centers as well as other community infrastructure in more than 130 countries around the globe. Schneider Electric has assisted in the implementation of many of these projects by providing both the equipment and professional support.

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Sources:

ANS – Italy – An Impressive Donation for Five Salesian Training Projects

Schneider Electrical Foundation

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DR CONGO: Salesian Centers Provide Shelter and Education for Single Mothers and At-Risk Girls

MissionNewswire — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 16:53:42 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Plagued by guerrilla violence that has lasted for more than 20 years, the Northern Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is rich in natural resources but marked by extreme poverty, raids and violence. Girls in the region are often the first victims facing violence and exploitation. They become mothers even before they become adults, often as the result of sexual violence and assault. They are lonely, helpless and only slightly older than their children. To help these girls, Salesian missionaries in Goma have opened two centers known as Maison Marguerite and the Foyer Annuarite.

The centers offer hospitality, protection and support to single mothers and young vulnerable women. Educators, voluntary workers and social and psychological assistants who work there provide the girls with psychological support, motivational programs and training to build self-awareness and self-esteem. The centers also offer vocational training and education along with a micro-credits program to help them develop small businesses. These young women can also engage in mediation and family reunions and recreational and sporting activities.

Safari, a 17-year-old girl in the program, has hopes for herself and her baby. Abandoned by her father at an early age and with a conflicting relationship with her stepfather, Safari ended up living on the street. There she has met a man who, after having courted her, abandoned her when he found out that she was pregnant. At her sixth month of pregnancy, Safari returned to live on the street and then ended up in jail, following a cruel and indiscriminate police operation against street children.

Justine, who is only 16 years old, has also suffered greatly. After the separation of her parents, she was stuck between her father and mother and forced to move several times. At the end, she escaped from her mother, and while trying to reach her father, was kidnapped by a soldier of the rebel troops that for years have been fighting with the army. For two months, she faced sexual assault and violence. After finding out she was pregnant, she was guided to Maison Marguerite through the help of a local civilian group and the Social Affairs Division. Justine’s sufferings ended and she and her baby are being taken care of by Salesian missionaries.

“Through these centers, Salesian missionaries are empowering young girls and women through education and ensuring that they have equal access to schools and skills training for later employment,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Young women and girls face many disadvantages and barriers to accessing education and achieving financial independence despite their huge potential. Those who are able to access education are more often able to achieve financial independence and make better and healthier choices that affect not only themselves, but their families and communities as well.”

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been plagued by intense civil war and internal conflict since the outbreak of fighting in 1998. As a result, there have been close to 5.4 million deaths, according to the International Rescue Committee. Most deaths resulted from non-violent causes such as malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition, all typically preventable under normal circumstances but often fatal in times of conflict. Close to 1.5 million people have been internally displaced or have become refugees in neighboring countries after having fled the country to escape the continued violence.

Young people make up about 19 percent of the country’s population but account for 47 percent of deaths during this conflict. Poverty is rampant, according to UNICEF, and 72 percent of rural households and 59 percent of urban households are poor. Nearly 40 percent of children under 5 suffer from chronic malnutrition and most of the population lives with moderate to serious food insecurity. The 2015 Human Development Index ranked the Democratic Republic of the Congo 176 out of 188 countries and territories listed.

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Sources:

ANS – The Democratic Republic of the Congo – “Maison Marguerite” and “Foyer Annuarite”: places of rebirth for mothers and babies

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Salesian Bakanja Center Aims to Help Street Children Access Shelter and Education

MissionNewswire — Wed, 17 May 2017 14:50:32 +0000

Salesian missionaries at Bakanja Center, in the city of Lubumbashi in the southeastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are helping youth living on the streets escape a life of poverty. Poverty and family breakdown are the main reasons for the large number of children and young people who crowd the streets of Lubumbashi. Often their only shelter is the market stalls and cardboard boxes.

While the city of Lubumbashi has both agricultural and mineral resource wealth, the area faces numerous economic and social challenges. The city and surrounding areas have close to 8.2 million people, most living in poverty. More than 60 percent of the population is less than 20 years old. A large percentage of children and young adults have dropped out of school because they are unable to pay for tuition, uniforms, and school supplies. This leaves many young adults unemployed and living on the streets.

The doors of Bakanja Ville, the main reception center of the Bakanja Center, are always open. Youth can access the program to take a shower, sleep, eat, wash their clothes, and engage in activities. A personal file is opened for each young person. Then Salesian missionaries begin a search for the family to see if reintegration is possible with the help of social workers. Salesian missionaries also go out into the street twice a month to help connect with street children in their own environment to tell them about the program and offer them a safe place to stay.

Each child has their own reason for being on the street so each intervention is customized for the individual. Those who demonstrate a willingness to leave the streets begin their rehabilitation at Bakanja Center. Here, there is a hostel for 80 young people. Some 300 children attend primary school and are offered literacy courses and remedial teaching. There are many success stories from the program. Former street children have become teachers, graduates or professionals who have found their place in life.

Additional programs are offered tailored specifically for youth. Cité des Jeunes is a vocational school that offers courses in carpentry, auto mechanics, construction, welding, mechanics and agriculture, and offers a hostel for 60 young people. Then there is Bakanja Magone, a vocational school that offers craft courses in addition to a hostel for 41 young people. Even those who have already been reintegrated back with their family can attend courses in carpentry, mechanics, welding, shoemaking, construction, ceramics, or driving. Finally, there is the Jacaranda Center that has a hostel attached for 35 young people. This center offers a training course lasting three to four years in mathematics, French language, and agriculture and farming techniques.

“Children who are living on the streets experience discrimination and exclusion every day,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Children who are able to access programs that help youth come in off the streets where they face poverty and are at-risk for exploitation, have a chance at a better life. Salesian programs aim to help children live safely while getting the emotional support they need and the education that will help them live independently.”

Sources

ANS – Democratic Republic of the Congo – Building a future for young people away from the streets

UNICEF – DR Congo

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DR CONGO: Close to 4,000 Salesian Students and Staff Have Better Access to Clean Water

MissionNewswire — Sat, 06 May 2017 21:02:41 +0000

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries at two Salesian training and vocational centers in the city of Lubumbashi in the southeastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo just completed water projects thanks to funding provided by Salesian Missions. Close to 4,000 youth, parents, Salesian staff, and community members will benefit from these water projects at the Salesian-run Kansebula St. Jean Bosco Institute and Chem Chem Center.

The goal of the projects was a complete renovation of existing water systems, which were outdated, wasting energy, and provided insufficient quantities of water. The Kansebula St Jean Bosco Institute and the Chem Chem Center are providing educational opportunities for at-risk youth living in poverty within in the community. The Kansebula Institute emphasizes a human science curriculum while the Chem Chem Center specializes in agricultural training. Both facilities prepare youth for the workforce but face challenges around energy and water sources due to their remote locations. Neither facility has water services provided by its town or government and must rely on local resources such as wells and rivers.

Salesian missionaries began the two water projects to ensure clean fresh water for the students and the sustainability of the water sources for their facilities. At Kansebula, the new water system allows for uninterrupted water provision, even during energy cuts and while hosting large groups at the facility. The project consisted of erecting a water tower and two 2,500-liter water tanks in connection to the existing water system, improving water management and protect the water pump in use.

Salesian missionaries are able to save funding on charcoal thanks to a filter system installed in the kitchen and after the rehabilitation of the tank and piping system. In addition, new outdoor toilets were built by staff and students at the Salesian vocational training center, giving students an opportunity to practice their skills.

At Chem Chem, the project entailed upgrading the existing water system to allow proper quantities of clean water for students. This was accomplished by deepening the existing well, erecting a water tower and installing two 2,500-liter water tanks.

UN-Water estimates that worldwide there are more than 663 million people living without a safe water supply close to their home and must spend countless hours queuing or trekking to distant sources to look for water and cope with the health impacts of using contaminated water. For those who have no access to clean water, water-related disease is common with more than 840,000 people dying each year from water-related diseases.

In response to this crisis, Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has made building wells and supplying fresh, clean water, a top priority for every community in every country in which Salesian missionaries work. The two projects in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are just two of many that have been completed, with more in the process.

“Having access to clean water and proper sanitation brings a sense of dignity to the children and families we serve in our programs,” says Father Mark Hyde, executive director of Salesian Missions. “Improving water and sanitation facilities also ensures that teachers and students are working and learning in an environment that promotes proper hygiene and has safe drinking water, reducing the number of waterborne illnesses that can affect those in our schools and keep them away from important study time.”

Salesian missionaries have been working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for more than 100 years ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not forgotten. Primary and secondary education schools and programs lay the foundation for early learning while Salesian trade, vocational and agricultural programs provide youth with an opportunity for a stable and productive future.

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Sources:

UNICEF – DR Congo

UN-Water

Salesian Missions

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