ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Center, located in Shire, in the Tigray region of Ethiopia*, provides education and support to youth who are vulnerable, orphaned, or poor through school and computer courses. In early March, Don Bosco Shire, in collaboration with the Sisters of St. Jeanne Antide Thouret and the Daughters of Charity, organized a humanitarian food distribution for internally displaced people.

The Tigray area has been plagued by war, and many areas are still occupied by the military. Even the areas currently free of conflict have been left with serious damage. Since the signing of a peace agreement in November 2022, the situation is slowly returning to normal, but it has left around a million people displaced and thousands of refugees in Sudan.

“In most cases, the territories are still not free,” explained a Salesian working in the area. “But wherever possible, we want people to return to a normal life in their villages. The challenge is that many people who want to return to their homes are now faced with them destroyed, their agricultural land abandoned and all their assets lost. We are working to help people return to a normal life in their villages as soon as possible when it’s safe to do so.”

The food initiative supported the most at-risk groups, particularly pregnant women and breast-feeding mothers, whose nutritional needs are urgent. More than 200 people from different internally displaced communities in Shire received food assistance. Each beneficiary was provided with Famix (a food supplement to combat malnutrition in children), salt, sugar and edible oil.

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world with more than 38% of its population living in poverty, according to Feed the Future. Close to 85% of the country’s workforce is employed in agriculture, but frequent droughts severely affect the agricultural economy leaving more than 12 million people chronically, or at least periodically, food insecure. In addition, more than two-thirds of the population is illiterate.

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

ANS – Ethiopia – Don Bosco, Shire, distributes food to vulnerable internally displaced persons

Salesian Missions – Ethiopia

UNICEF – Ethiopia

UNHCR – Ethiopia

*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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BURUNDI

(MissionNewswire) Salesian International Volunteering for Development (VIS), in collaboration with the Museke Foundation in Brescia, Italy, is taking action to aid people living at the Makombe Transit Camp in Burundi*. The camp is currently home to more than 1,700 people who fled the clashes in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo in December 2025.

Approximately 1,050 children up to age 11, 300 boys and girls between the ages of 12-17, and 350 adults, mostly women, have been registered. The camp was set up in 2021 as a temporary reception facility, but it remains overcrowded due to the arrival of new refugees.

The country’s permanent camps are currently full, and many refugees remain in the transit center. Several humanitarian organizations have intervened in the camp to provide essential services, including health care, access to water and food distribution. However, in recent months, some key activities have been suspended, leaving important needs unmet for children, young people and women.

A Salesian noted, “Families now receive only one meal a day, many do not have their own tent, and there are insufficient toilets and showers. There is also a lack of educational activities and safe spaces for young children, while women and girls no longer receive menstrual kits and counseling services.”

VIS is putting a plan into place to address several issues. The activities include a daily hot meal for young children, menstrual kits for women and girls, the creation of safe spaces with recreational and educational activities for children, and education for community leaders who can raise awareness about children’s rights and the sexual and reproductive health of youth.

The Salesian said, “The aim is to strengthen the protection of children and women and to offer support to a community that, despite the difficulties, continues to demonstrate resilience and the ability to live together.”

Burundi has seen more than a decade of violence and conflict, contributing to widespread poverty according to UNICEF. Children are some of the most severely affected by the country’s rampant poverty. Fifty-three percent of children under the age of 5 suffer from growth stunting caused by inadequate food, low-quality diet, poor infant feeding practices, poor household management of childhood diseases and the general decline of the country’s health system.

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

ANS – Burundi – Emergency in Makombe camp: VIS and Museke Foundation intervene and launch an appeal

Salesian Missions – Burundi

UNICEF – Burundi

*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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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian community in Palabek Refugee Settlement, located in Uganda, has a new solar power system thanks to donor funding by Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding enabled the successful installation of 60 high-quality solar panels, harnessing renewable energy to meet the community’s electricity needs. This significantly enhances energy access for the community, including religious missionaries and residents.

The upgraded system has contributed to reducing dependence on fuel-based generators, leading to noticeable savings in operational costs. The new system also advances environmental conservation efforts by utilizing renewable solar energy and decreasing the community’s carbon footprint. More than 600 people from the youth center and chapel have been impacted by this donation.

Before the project, chapels, youth centers, nursery schools, and the community needed more electricity than the existing system could provide. The old system’s capacity was insufficient to supply continuous electricity where needed. The 12 batteries could only power the area for a few hours after sunset, with some lighting lasting just three hours. To address this, the new system increased the number of batteries to 16, including high-quality lithium batteries known for their long-lasting life and resistance.

The installed system now supports lighting, communication, and basic electrical needs within the residence, enhancing daily living and community activities. The improved energy infrastructure has increased the community’s ability to support various programs and activities, fostering development and well-being.

Ojok Denis Mlozi, aged 51, is one those benefiting from the project. He cares for his six younger siblings and his four children, and he has also taken in two orphaned children from his sister. Mlozi is a trainee technical teacher, currently working with Don Bosco Vocational Training Center in Palabek.

Mlozi was excited about the new solar power system and aware of the challenges faced by the Salesian community. He said, “Before the project, I was worried that power outages might occur earlier in the night, especially since the community hosts important visitors. I felt reassured when the project was completed because the new system was built with high-quality technology. Overall, I, and others, are happy with the changes brought by the project. We are grateful for the support.”

Salesian missionaries living and working among the refugees at Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp provide a range of educational and social development programs for the 93,000 people living in the camp. Most of them are from South Sudan, and 60% are under age 13. Salesians have been supporting refugees since the opening of the camp in 2016.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Uganda

UNHCR – Uganda Refugees

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TANZANIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Don Bosco Igawa Parish in Tanzania have fresh, clean water for their community thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding was part of the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative” and was implemented to respond to chronic water scarcity affecting Igawa village and surrounding rural communities in the Mbeya region.

With the new water access, more than 10,000 people have clean water, reducing time spent fetching water, particularly for women and children. Hygiene and school attendance improved, and waterborne illness decreased in the village.

People in the area rely on subsistence farming and small livestock. Before the intervention, residents depended on distant, seasonal and often unsafe water sources such as shallow wells and seasonal streams, exposing families to waterborne diseases and long daily travel times for water collection.

With the funding, Salesians were able to conduct professional hydrogeological and geophysical surveys to identify a viable and sustainable aquifer. Once it and all permits were established, the drilling for a deep borehole was completed, including casing, gravel packing and sanitary sealing. The funding also provided for the installation of an electric-powered submersible pump and a 5,000-liter (approximately 1,320 gallon) water storage tank and distribution points for community access.

Mariana Mtawa, a resident, said, “Before the borehole was drilled, my children and I used to wake up very early to look for water. Sometimes we walked more than two hours, and even then, the water we found was not clean. During the dry season, it was very difficult, and my children would miss school because they were tired or sick. When drilling started, we were worried because we had heard the rocks were very hard, and the first machine failed. We prayed that the work would not stop. When water was finally reached, the whole village celebrated.”

Mtawa added, “Now we have water every day near the parish. My children are healthier, they go to school on time and I can use the extra time to work on my farm. Even though the tank is still small, we are very grateful, and we hope the bigger tank will come soon. This water has changed our lives.”

In Tanzania, 67.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. While the country has seen some economic growth in tourism, mining, trade and communication, the number of Tanzanians living below the poverty line has marginally increased due to rapid population growth. In some regions, up to half of the population struggles to meet the cost of essential food and shelter and other basic necessities like clothing, health care and education.

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Salesian Missions – Tanzania

UNICEF – Tanzania

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Reception Center, located in Kigali, Rwanda, has installed a new high-efficiency solar power system, responding to critical energy needs while promoting environmental responsibility within the complex. The project was supported by the Salesian Missions Office in Turin, Italy.

Father Servilien Ufitamahoro, director, emphasized the need for this modernization, pointing out that previously the center had struggled to maintain a constant power supply with limited resources. To resolve these issues, the center collaborated with a company to implement modern technologies, which led to the installation of 24 solar panels and two advanced batteries.

The project has already produced measurable results. Solar energy now accounts for 30% of the electricity used by the center, leading to what Fr. Ufitamahoro describes as a significant improvement in daily operations.

In addition to the immediate logistical benefits, the initiative represents a commitment to environmental protection. Fr. Ufitamahoro noted that in the light of climate change, the adoption of renewable energy is essential to better care for the environment. Looking to the future, he hoped that the center will be able to switch to 100% solar energy.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Youth who are poor are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.

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

ANS – Rwanda – The Don Bosco Reception Centre in Kigali adopts renewable energy by installing a new solar power system

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the St. Patrick Province in Ireland have been providing humanitarian aid, including food aid and education, for people who are internally displaced because of violence in South Sudan*. In Morobo, Salesians were able to provide 700 displaced families with basic food supplies that lasted for several weeks, despite the serious difficulties in the region.

In Morobo, teachers from St. Charles Lwanga Primary School have been providing support for people who are poor and vulnerable. The distribution of food was carried out in collaboration with local authorities, community leaders and humanitarian staff from the United Nations Regional Collaboration Center. In addition, the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Yei attended the distribution of aid, emphasizing the Church’s continued support and solidarity with those affected in Morobo.

The beneficiaries expressed relief and gratitude after receiving the food parcels. “We had nothing left to eat,” said a mother of four children. “This food will help us survive. I pray that there will be more support and that peace will return so that we can go home.”

The crisis in Morobo is part of a wider humanitarian emergency in the country where millions of people remain displaced due to conflict and economic instability. South Sudan has faced recurring violence, forcing people to abandon their homes and livelihoods. Many of the displaced are women, children and the elderly, groups particularly at risk of malnutrition and poor health.

In addition to the distribution of food items, a key component of the program was the education provided to 21 teachers and 14 student representatives from St. Charles Lwanga School. The education focused on child protection and topics such as water, sanitation and hygiene. These topics are essential for promoting a safe, inclusive and healthy learning environment, especially in Morobo, where access to public services is limited.

Father Anthony Doss Leo Arokianathan, economer of the Salesian Delegation of South Sudan, reiterated the importance of partnerships in responding to the needs of the community. He thanked Misean Cara, an international missionary development movement based in Ireland, and the Church for their support of the mission.

These activities are part of the ongoing efforts of the Salesians and their partners to provide holistic support to communities affected by conflict and displacement in South Sudan. By combining immediate relief with education and capacity building, the Salesian community aims to empower communities to rebuild and thrive even in difficult circumstances.

The Salesians in Ireland said, “As conflict and economic crisis continue to devastate communities across South Sudan, it is our privilege to help provide assistance to the affected populations. We ask for your prayers and support for the displaced, to help bring hope in these difficult times.”

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Photo courtesy of Salesians of Don Bosco Ireland: https://www.salesiansireland.ie/story/supporting-idps-and-school-leaders-in-south-sudan/

ANS – South Sudan – Salesians Ireland support internally displaced persons and school leaders in South Sudan

Salesians of Ireland

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Youth attending the St. Vincent De Paul School, run by the Salesian sisters in Gumbo, South Sudan*, have improved sanitation and access to workshops, along with a new equality club, thanks to donor funding. The funding was provided by Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

Donor funding helped with the construction of new bathroom facilities for girls, strengthening gender equality in the school community. Dehay Company LTD, a local firm employing local workers, built the structure. The roof was then finished and a rainwater disposal system was installed, along with doors, windows, walls, flooring, ceiling, plumbing and fittings.

While construction was happening, teachers implemented regular hygiene and gender equality awareness sessions. From March to September 2025, the sessions were delivered during daily school assemblies. In total, 24 awareness sessions were conducted, covering topics such as personal hygiene, hand-washing practices, oral hygiene, safe use and maintenance of toilets, menstrual health, body changes, and maintaining a clean environment at school and at home. More than 1,100 students participated in these sessions.

In addition, an equality club was established and became active during the academic year. The club reached 53 students from grade 3 until grade 7. The club promoted equal participation among boys and girls in the school and strengthened gender-sensitive practices. A total of 14 leaders were appointed to motivate their peers and support the implementation of the planned program. Under the guidance of teachers, the club organized mixed sports tournaments, gender-themed debates and shared responsibilities for school duties. These activities fostered collaboration, encouraged balanced participation and promoted positive gender roles across the school community.

Charity Poni Lino, one of the teachers at the school, said, “Life in Gumbo is challenging and it is not easy as a teacher. I see that most of people struggle even to pay school fees, but we know that education can change our future. My wish is to study hard and become a doctor so that I can help others girls and my community.”

About the project, she noted, “Before the construction, most of the girls faced challenges with the lack of enough toilets. Both students and teachers were excited by the changes as well as the gender awareness campaign. It helped the whole school community.”

Salesian missionaries in South Sudan are dedicated to providing programs and services across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) More than 4,800 youth at Salesian schools in Uganda have access to better nutrition 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 through nutrition, education and economic empowerment. Youth at Salesian schools and at Don Bosco Palabek received the meals in the first half of 2025.

At St. Joseph Vocational Training Center, meals supported students during their studies and large-scale events like Women’s Day and the Don Bosco sports tournament. As a result, the school was able to redirect funds toward learning materials. Students showed better concentration and performance, and community members expressed appreciation.

At Don Bosco CALM, daily hot meals were served to hundreds of youth, including weekend rations for boarding students. The center also distributed take-home meals to neighboring households and held two sessions on dietary health and food safety for caregivers. As a result, school attendance rose from 87% to 95%, and there was a 9% improvement in end-of-year exam pass rates. Malnourished children reached healthy BMIs, and parents reported financial relief as a result of the meal support.

Meals were also distributed at Don Bosco Palabek for children and youth in the early childhood development program and the vocational training center, helping maintain program stability amid broader food shortages. The camp managed to sustain school operations during a regional food crisis. The meals boosted morale and educational continuity and enabled the center to allocate funds toward education materials and facility improvements.

Finally, at the Don Bosco Vocational Training Center in Bombo, the meals helped the school avoid a food crisis during school sessions, attracted new enrollments due to improved student welfare and fostered community bonds through inclusive meal-sharing events. The center also supported poor local families with the meals and began expanding vocational education offerings.

Frank, a student at Don Bosco Vocational Training Center, is currently studying metal fabrication and wishes to be a professional welder. Frank comes from a very poor family and is an orphan who lives with his siblings. Due to financial constraints, they could only afford to have one small meal so that everyone could have something to eat.

Frank said, “Ever since I started receiving Rise Against Hunger meals, my life has really greatly improved because I no longer miss any important meal.’’ He said that his grades and those of other students are better because students now go to class with the right energy after receiving lunch.

When asked about his hopes for the future, Frank said, “In the future, I want to be a welder who provides the best quality services for my customers. With that career path, I hope to create financial freedom for my family so that none of my family members has to suffer from hunger again.”

Salesians at the schools work primarily with boys who are homeless and those who have been orphaned, battered, and neglected. They also provide support for other youth and children who are vulnerable, including those who are HIV/AIDS positive. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) Five young innovators from Don Bosco Gambella in Ethiopia* are transforming agriculture through their start-up, Afri Tech Eng. All five youth are graduates of Don Bosco Gambella, and their journey from student to start-up reflects the values and skills they learned through their education.

Afri Tech Eng has been tasked with designing and manufacturing essential agricultural machinery for local farming communities. These machines were entirely designed and manufactured in Salesian workshops and will be distributed across nine sub-districts of Gambella, helping to boost agricultural productivity through technology that is both locally relevant and affordable.

Father Lijo Vadakkan, director of Don Bosco Gambella, expressed his deep appreciation for the young innovators and their work. He said, “What we have seen over the past two months is a clear example of what young minds can achieve when focus, dedication and hard work come together.”

Salesians have been operating Don Bosco Gambella for 51 years, providing education and support to the local community. They work to ensure that youth have the education and skills needed to find and retain long term employment. Students are also encouraged to use their skills to improve their local communities.

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world with more than 38% of its population living in poverty, according to Feed the Future. Close to 85% of the country’s workforce is employed in agriculture, but frequent droughts severely affect the agricultural economy leaving more than 12 million people chronically, or at least periodically, food insecure. In addition, more than two-thirds of the population is illiterate.

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

ANS – Ethiopia – From the classroom to the workshop: young innovators promote local agricultural solutions in Gambella

Salesian Missions – Ethiopia

UNICEF – Ethiopia

*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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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are challenging gender stereotypes in education in Rwanda. For years, technical and vocational education in the country has steered young women into subjects that did not require physical strength. However, the four-year project “Gender Matters for Green TVET” at Don Bosco Gatenga and Don Bosco Muhazi is creating a pathway for young women to succeed in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as construction, electricity and plumbing.

Although the initial goal was to ensure that at least 30% of students were young women, the results far exceeded expectations. In the 2022-2023 school year, only 60 young women were enrolled at Don Bosco Gatenga, while in 2024-2025 that number rose to 209 out of a total of 533 students.

This growth was supported by the construction of a dormitory for young women that offered safe spaces for self-care, directly increasing the confidence and academic performance of these students.

Two students who completed their studies in electrical engineering received scholarships for advanced education. One of them traveled to Ghana to specialize in solar energy and will return to Rwanda to teach short courses, while the other is currently pursuing university studies in Sweden.

At Don Bosco Muhazi, the project has helped more than 100 students, including single mothers, to engage in agriculture and livestock farming. Graduates have received financial aid and livestock to overcome personal difficulties, while 15 other graduates have already started their own agricultural initiatives.

A Salesian noted, “Recognizing that education requires more than just books, the project has provided counseling for trauma and distress to more than 50 young women and financial assistance to 30. The program is also helping these students connect with job opportunities to ensure that they are able to find and retain long-term employment.”

Around 80% of those enrolled at Don Bosco Muhazi are now involved in entrepreneurship programs and are equipped with tools such as hoes and livestock and trained by financial institutions to manage their business ventures.

The work is thanks to the collaboration of the Austrian Development Cooperation, Jugend Eine Welt and the Salesians of Don Bosco.

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

ANS – Rwanda – Breaking down barriers: transforming gender issues in technical and vocational education and training

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) More than 5,000 people, most of whom are internally displaced in Gumbo, on the outskirts of the city of Juba, South Sudan*, had access to better nutrition during the first half of 2025. The food shipment was the result of 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.

At the Don Bosco Gumbo Camp, Rise Against Hunger meals, which consist of rice, soy, vegetables and a vitamin packet, were distributed to 2,958 people, ensuring that all the families received essential food supplies. Meals were also served at the Don Bosco School, benefiting more than 1,500 students in the regular morning classes and more than 500 in the accelerated learning program in the afternoon. The meals served during their break provided much-needed nourishment to support their learning and well-being.

In Tonj, 180 people who are affected by leprosy also received meals. This outreach emphasized inclusivity and compassion, reaching one of the most marginalized groups in society. Additionally, meals were distributed to refugees in Wau, reinforcing efforts to support displaced communities and uphold their dignity through food assistance.

At the Don Bosco Gumbo Primary School, James is one of the students who received nutritious meals. Before the Rise Against Hunger meals were introduced, his family often managed only one meal per day. He now has breakfast at school and a second meal when he returns home. This improvement in nutrition has helped him and his classmates focus better in class and improve their grades. James dreams of becoming a doctor if he continues to do well in school.

During one school lunch, James said, “Since we’ve been having these meals, I feel stronger and don’t get tired very fast. These meals are my favorite part of my day. I get to eat with my friends and then play afterwards.”

James is deeply grateful for the support and says that one day he hopes to help others just as he has been helped through the meal program. He has observed that the entire school community is happier and more engaged with the consistent meals. Attendance has improved, and more students come to school regularly.

Paul Mutte-Atelio, community leader and teacher, said, “The Rise Against Hunger meals are very good. The students and teachers are happy and appreciative of the support. In the internally displaced persons camp, we have some women who are vulnerable and cannot do much, but with the meals, their life has improved so much, and they are very grateful. Now they help prepare the meals and have found food stability for them and their children.”

Salesian missionaries in South Sudan are dedicated to providing programs and services across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan in 2011 but has faced an ongoing civil war that started in December 2013 and continues today. This has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis. According to the United States Institute of Peace, more than 10 million people have been forced from their homes. The war has also triggered the world’s worst hunger crisis with more than 18 million Sudanese living in acute food insecurity.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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TANZANIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Novitiate in Morogoro, Tanzania, completed a renovation project thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Fifteen years of use, combined with harsh tropical weather and limited resources for major maintenance, led to widespread infrastructure needs. This project restored safety, dignity and functionality to the entire compound.

These improvements have impacted 23 Salesian novices from Tanzania and neighboring countries, close to 500 youth who regularly participate in oratory activities, catechesis, sports, tutoring, and youth formation programs at Don Bosco Morogoro. Those visiting the compound from the local community are also benefiting from a safe and functional environment.

The renovation began with a complete overhaul of the plumbing system, which had become the most critical problem. The original galvanized iron pipes were severely corroded, leading to frequent leaks, low water pressure and rust-contaminated water. Entire sections of piping were replaced with durable, modern materials, including new valves, fittings and connectors. All washrooms and dormitories were comprehensively renovated as well. This restored hygiene, dignity, and safety for the novices, staff and visiting youth.

Structural repairs were also completed throughout the building. Cracks in walls were repaired and reinforced, leaking roof sections were sealed, and damaged floors in corridors, dining areas, and common spaces were repaired. The entire building, both interior and exterior, was repainted, transforming the building into a clean, bright and welcoming environment.

Lastly, the project also addressed security and compound infrastructure. The perimeter fence was repaired and reinforced, and the main gate was upgraded to ensure the safety of residents, visiting youth, and the property.

Mtewa Evans Edward, one of those impacted by the renovation, said, “When I see the clean rooms, the water flowing freely, the pavements inside the compound and the beautiful tarmac road leading into our home, I feel deeply grateful. This place now truly reflects the dignity of our vocation. We thank our benefactors from our hearts.”

In Tanzania, 67.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. While the country has seen some economic growth in tourism, mining, trade and communication, the number of Tanzanians living below the poverty line has marginally increased due to rapid population growth. In some regions, up to half of the population struggles to meet the cost of essential food and shelter and other basic necessities like clothing, health care and education. Nearly 43% of the population lives in extreme poverty.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Tanzania

UNICEF – Tanzania

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ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) More than 2,500 families across eight communities in Ethiopia* had access to better 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 families have been impacted by the ongoing strife in the Tigray region of the country.

A Salesian explained, “The war started in November 2020. Until the peace agreement was reached in November 2022, there were active clashes between the federal military and the regional force, and hundreds of thousands of people died on both sides. The food shortage began around November 2020, coinciding with the start of the conflict in Tigray. As the war unfolded, it worsened food access and contributed to the broader humanitarian crisis.”

Salesian missionaries have been a crucial lifeline for war-affected people in Tigray, operating primarily through established communities in Mekelle, Adigrat, Adwa and Shire. Salesians address immediate humanitarian needs while also focusing on long-term recovery and resilience.

This donation was sent in partnership with Flexport.org, which managed the shipping and funded the shipping costs. Salesian Missions will partner with Flexport.org for additional upcoming humanitarian aid shipments.

Salesians have also organized and distributed food baskets containing essentials like wheat, rice and oil to tens of thousands of internally displaced persons and families facing food shortage-like conditions. They are running programs for the most vulnerable, especially malnourished children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, providing high-nutrient food like fortified flour to combat acute malnutrition. They are also providing non-food items like blankets, mattresses and other items.

With infrastructure broken, Salesians have taken on projects to restore clean water access. They are currently working to repair damaged wells and boreholes in order to provide a more sustainable water source for local communities.

In addition, Salesians are providing education to children and skills training for older youth and adults. A Salesian explained, “Education is at the heart of what we do in these communities. Salesians have been instrumental in getting schools functional again by providing books and pens, repairing damaged classrooms, and paying incentive salaries for teachers who otherwise wouldn’t work. For children who have missed years of schooling, we also provide informal classes for internally displaced people, setting up temporary learning spaces to help them catch up. For older youth and adults, we provide access to skills training with short technical and vocational courses and startup kits to help them generate a small income.”

Salesians were in these communities well before the war started and will be there long after it’s done. The existing trust with the community means that Salesians can often operate when international non-governmental organizations are unable to gain access. This has been critical in assessing nutritional needs and ensuring that food shipments reach people most in need.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Ethiopia

UNICEF – Ethiopia

*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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BURUNDI

(MissionNewswire) More than 950 students attending Don Bosco High School in Ngozi, Burundi*, had access to better nutrition during the first half of 2025 as a result of 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.

Students at the school often come from families who are poor and do not have the means to pay school fees or provide lunch. The economy in Ngozi is primarily agricultural, such as growing coffee, cassava, tea, and beans or raising cattle for the local markets. Other industries in the region include processing tea and mining tin.

The feeding program created positive changes at the school. Students had more energy and were better engaged with their studies. They were also involved in various sporting and cultural activities organized during this time.

One of the recipients was Lucky Alpha Nduwimana. He is the oldest of three children and both his parents are primary school teachers. At home, they normally eat two meals a day, although sometimes they can only afford one. Since joining the Don Bosco High School and receiving Rise Against Hunger meals three times a day, Nduwimana says he feels much better. He enjoys eating meals with his friends, and they often play sports after since they are full of energy.

Nduwimana hopes to one day have his own coffee farm and sell his product at the local markets in Ngozi. He wants to complete his schooling to be knowledgeable and ready to start his own business.

Thomas Riyawimana, headmaster and teacher, noted that Nduwimana has improved in his physical strength, energy and overall happiness since receiving the meals. He noted, “I am proud of Lucky for overcoming hardship and showing promise for the future. My hope is that Lucky will use his education to help others in need, just as he was helped. He will be able to apply what he has learned and be generous and helpful to those around him.”

Burundi has seen more than a decade of violence and conflict, contributing to widespread poverty according to UNICEF. Children are some of the most severely affected by the country’s rampant poverty. Fifty-three percent of children under the age of 5 suffer from growth stunting caused by inadequate food, low-quality diet, poor infant feeding practices, poor household management of childhood diseases and the general decline of the country’s health system.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Burundi

UNICEF – Burundi

*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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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesians with Don Bosco Morobo in South Sudan* have finished renovations on the community house thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The rehabilitation provides a safe, functional space for governance of Don Bosco Primary School and coordination of parish activities across 25 sub-stations.

The Don Bosco Community House in Morobo was fully renovated including work on structural repairs to the roof, walls, and flooring, as well as adding essential equipment for educational and pastoral use. The renovation further included complete plumbing and electrical installations to ensure safety and functionality, and the addition of a new 15kV solar power system for reliable energy. A 20,000-liter water tank with a tower and solar pump was installed to serve both the school and community, addressing critical water needs.

Furthermore, a protective fence was constructed to safeguard the property from wild animals and theft. These enhancements ensure the long-term sustainability, security, and usability of the community house and its services. The renovated facility now serves as a hub for education, pastoral care, youth development, and community gatherings.

The donation has impacted more than 1,000 children enrolled in Don Bosco Primary School as well as 40 teachers and more than 20,000 parishioners across the sub-stations. Many of these people have returned to their homes after conflict drove them to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Anthony Ukwar Uber, a member of the parish choir, explained, “I run a small shop in the local market, where I sell basic household items to help support my family. Life in Morobo hasn’t always been easy. We are still recovering from the effects of the war, and many young people like me are trying to rebuild our lives from scratch. But having the church and the Salesians back with us has been a big relief. It brings hope.”

He continued, “When the civil war started in 2015, everything collapsed. The Salesians had to leave because of the fighting, and many of us — including my own family — fled to Uganda as refugees. Life in the camps was difficult. When we returned around 2020, the Salesian compound was destroyed and abandoned. There were no priests, no parish activities, and we felt spiritually empty. We had no one to guide us, no sports or music, and no place to come together as before.”

Uber is grateful the Salesians have returned. He concluded, “When we heard that Salesian Missions was supporting the renovation of the Salesian house, it brought excitement and a sense of hope. We saw the house being rebuilt, and with it, we saw our parish life slowly coming back. I was excited and just prayed the priests would return. There was no anxiety, only joy. We have a resident priest who celebrates Mass daily, works with school children during the day, and organizes games and sports for us youth in the evenings. The community feels alive again. We are seeing improvements in both our spiritual and social lives. Youth are more united, and there’s less idle time. The project gave us exactly what we needed.”

Salesian missionaries in South Sudan are dedicated to providing programs and services across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesians with Don Bosco Morobo in South Sudan* have a new Toyota Land Cruiser to facilitate mission work thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The primary goal of the new vehicle is to strengthen the pastoral outreach to remote areas of Don Bosco Morobo Parish.

The Land Cruiser is enabling the pastoral team to access outstations regularly and provide sacramental services, youth ministry activities and support for people who are poor, elderly and vulnerable. The entire parish community includes close to 10,000 people who benefit from improved access to sacraments and emergency transport.

Morobo County lies along South Sudan’s southern border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The region features hilly terrain, tropical vegetation, and fertile soils, with savannah grasslands and patches of forest. Some roads are unpaved and become impassable during rainy seasons, limiting movement and access to services.

Anthony Issac Oromo, catechist and parish counselor, explained, “Before we received support from New Rochelle, we faced serious challenges in reaching the outstations. Many of our communities are far apart — some up to three or four hours on foot. This made it difficult for catechism classes, choir practice and youth group meetings. We were committed, but it was tiring, and sometimes we had to cancel activities if the weather was bad or if someone fell ill on the way.”

He added, “The new car has changed everything. Now, we travel with the parish priest to all the outstations regularly. We bring the message of God, offer catechism classes, organize choir practice and meet with the youth — all in a day, something that used to take several days. The people’s morale has gone up. They feel cared for, and I feel proud to be part of something that brings them hope. This vehicle isn’t just a means of transport — it’s a symbol of connection, unity and hope. We are very grateful to Salesian Missions for supporting our mission.”

Salesian missionaries in South Sudan are dedicated to providing programs and services across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Don Bosco Novitiate, located in Morogoro, Tanzania, have access to clean water thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The project is part of the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.” Close to 1,500 people are benefiting from this project, including those in the surrounding community who are able to access the water.

The area is semi-arid at the foot of the Uluguru Mountains. Most families rely on subsistence farming or trade, and they face frequent water shortages in the dry season. Many homes lack electricity or piped water, and droughts and erratic rains make life challenging.

The project included the construction of a new water system including a submersible solar-powered pump inside the underground tank to push water up to a new 50,000-liter plastic header tank. Solar panels and an inverter power the pump, ensuring an independent energy source. In November, the reservoir, pump and header tank were fully connected and delivering water by gravity to all taps across the novitiate and oratory.

All 350 people on site now have a dependable daily water supply without interruptions, allowing residents to bathe, cook and clean without rationing. This uninterrupted access has improved daily living conditions and hygiene.

The Salesians also offer free water outreach to the surrounding community. In the past, the public tap often ran dry by midday. Now water is available all day, even at peak demand. Women and girls benefit from shorter lines and are able to access water when they need it.

Deusdedit K. Julius, coordinator of youth activities, said, “Now the tank is finished, and it has changed our lives. We no longer need to ration water. There is enough for the novices, the oratory youth and even the neighboring families who come to our gate.”

Julius added, “Health and hygiene have improved. The children at the oratory can wash their hands or even take a quick shower after playing. This is a luxury we couldn’t afford before and the novices can keep themselves and their clothes clean without stress. Our whole community is now optimistic. This gift of water has given us our life back. The time we spent searching for water, we now spend on productive work and with our youth. God bless everyone who made it happen.”

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Tanzania

UNICEF – Tanzania

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Province of East Africa has inaugurated a new Don Bosco oratory in Siaya, Kenya, near Lake Victoria. The launch of the new center also marks the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian missionaries in the region. Welcomed by Archbishop Maurice Mbata and the clergy of the Archdiocese of Kisumu, the Salesians are being hosted by the parish community of Mbaga.

The oratory was officially blessed and opened on Nov. 22. More than 100 boys and girls attended the first gathering, expressing joy and enthusiasm for the new center. Local families are anticipating the future senior secondary school also planned for the site. The land was donated to the Salesians two years ago by German philanthropist Dr. Alois Stimpfle. The Salesian community is looking for assistance to start the school with the goal of the first enrollment in 2028.

A Salesian explained, “This is the first Salesian oratory in Siaya. We have had such a welcome reception. With the great need for poor youth in the community, we hope to expand to provide formal education so youth can gain the skills for long-term employment. Salesians require assistance though to build the school and get it operational.”

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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

ANS – Kenya – The First Salesian Oratory at Siaya (Kenya)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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KENYA

Project trained 66 animators and teachers across seven parishes

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries were able to train Pontifical Missionary Children animators and Sunday school teachers in Salesian parishes in Kenya, thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Through this project 66 animators and teachers were trained across seven parishes.

The animators and teachers were trained in psychology of child development, psychosocial development, James Fowler’s model of faith development and cognitive development contemporary theories for children learning spirituality.

A Salesian explained, “This was an excellent training project. Now with the 66 animators and teachers trained, they will bring what they are learned to educate more than 12,000 children, aged 5–12 years, in various parishes. Not only that but animators and teachers were able to share their experiences, build a supportive network and continue to learn from each other.”

An interactive WhatsApp group was created through this project to enable members to share ideas, showcase progress, and demonstrate the application of learned methodologies. On the last day of the training, animators visited Don Bosco Upperhill Parish (Shrine of Mary Help of Christians) to observe how the animators and Sunday School teachers organize and conduct their sessions.

Nelly Lukaziva Sanya is one of the people who attended the training. She has always been passionate about nurturing children’s spiritual growth. Before joining the project, Sanya faced several challenges that affected her confidence and teaching effectiveness. Her methods were mostly traditional, and she often felt limited in how she could engage her students or manage classroom dynamics.

Reflecting on that period, Sanya said, “Before the training, I often felt stuck doing things the same way and wasn’t sure how to make my lessons more engaging.” When the project was introduced, Sanya welcomed it with both excitement and apprehension. She was eager to learn new teaching techniques and connect with other teachers, yet she worried about whether she could adapt to the new methods and apply them effectively. Despite these initial worries, she embraced the learning process and found the sessions inspiring and transformative.

By the end of the training, Sanya felt a renewed sense of confidence and purpose. The practical methods and creative strategies she learned helped her better engage her students and strengthened the trust between her and the children’s parents. The training not only improved her teaching but also deepened her sense of community among fellow teachers. Together, they shared insights, encouraged one another, and discussed ways to make Sunday school more interactive and spiritually enriching.

Looking ahead, Sanya hopes to continue growing as a teacher and mentor. She envisions creating digital learning resources, forming a supportive network of Sunday school teachers, and inspiring others through mentorship and collaboration.

Sanya added, “I want to mentor children and new teachers, share what I’ve learned, and create online resources to support others.” Overall, the project has enhanced Sanya’s confidence, teaching effectiveness and community leadership, contributing to a more engaging and spiritually enriching learning environment.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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KENYA

Initiative fosters sense of stewardship among youth, educators and communities

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Kenya has taken a transformative step by launching the Don Bosco Integral Ecology Plan that spans from now through 2029. Salesians in Kenya will turn to Don Bosco Green Alliance, a global platform for ecological initiatives and activities.

The plan represents a comprehensive roadmap to integrate ecological responsibility across all facets of Salesian education, pastoral care, and social engagement. The six pillars of the plan include energy management, carbon management, water management, waste management, sustainable agriculture, and ecological conversion.

These actions will involve the participation of 14 Salesian institutions across Kenya and is designed to benefit more than 45,000 youth and community members annually. Rooted firmly in the principles of Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’s call for an integral approach to ecology, the initiative addresses critical environmental challenges while fostering a sense of stewardship among young people, educators, and communities.

In his opening remarks to unveil the plan, Father George Tharayil, provincial superior, framed the initiative as both a spiritual and practical commitment. He said, “This five-year strategic plan for Integral Ecology reflects our dedication to God, the environment, and the people we serve.”

Father Savio Silveira, the coordinator of the Don Bosco Green Alliance, addressed the growing concern of “eco-anxiety” among youth, emphasizing the importance of immediate action. “Whatever affects young people affects the Salesian community,” he stressed, applauding the Salesian Province of East Africa for being the first in the Salesian world to launch such a comprehensive ecological plan.

The launch event concluded with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony, involving representatives from Don Bosco institutions, private entities, non-governmental organizations and civil society. This act symbolized the shared commitment to nurturing a greener planet and marked the beginning of a legacy that will inspire future generations.

The Don Bosco Integral Ecology Plan sets a powerful example, calling on Salesian provinces worldwide to embrace ecological responsibility with focus, unity, and determination.

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Don Bosco Green Alliance – Kenya – The Salesian Province of East Africa (AFE) Launches the Don Bosco Integral Ecology Plan (2025–2029)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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UGANDA

Center ensures education remains a pathway out of poverty

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Children and Life Mission (CALM) in Namugongo, Uganda is part of the “You are daily bread” project supported by Mission Don Bosco in Turin, Italy. The project helps support youth in accessing education and thriving once they are in school.

A Salesian explained, “Back to school time brings with it the excitement for many. The streets are full of children and young people with colorful school bags and dreams in their hearts. They return to school ready to build their future. But not for everyone. Millions of children in the world do not even know about school or cannot attend it because they are too poor, too far away or are living on the streets forced to survive.”

The Salesian added, “This is why education is at the forefront of what Salesian missionaries provide around the globe. Education is a pathway out of poverty, but we need to make sure vulnerable youth have access not only to school but to the supports that help them thrive once they are there.”

Mission Don Bosco is helping support youth in school not only at Don Bosco CALM but at Don Bosco Deodurga in India and the Don Bosco Boys Home in Sunyani, Ghana.  The Salesian noted, “Thanks to the generosity of so many benefactors from all over the world, these centers enable so many youth to go to school, and even more, to experience the joy and serenity of their childhood.”

Don Bosco CALM rescues, rehabilitates and reintegrates children who have been living on the street back into society. Salesians meet basic needs and provide education, socio-cultural activities and recreation — such as sports programming — to help youth have a bright future.

Salesians work primarily with boys without homes and those who have been orphaned, battered and neglected. Salesians also provide support for other vulnerable youth and children, including those with HIV/AIDS. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

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

ANS – Uganda – School starts at CALM too

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Utume in Nairobi, Kenya, has installed a new tank to provide clean water to community members and others, including people who are marginalized, thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The project is part of the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.”

This project has increased the total water storage from approximately 5,200 gallons (25,000 liters) to almost 16,000 gallons (85,000 liters), resolving the previous storage shortfall that had caused frequent outages. Don Bosco Utume is located in Langata, Nairobi, an urban area with a growing population and significant water needs. The climate is semi-arid, with irregular rainfall patterns, making water storage essential for both human consumption and agricultural sustainability.

The community serves approximately 200 residents, including seminarians and staff, while also providing free water to more than 1,000 people each day, including members of the Maasai community and children who live on the street. The previous water tank was insufficient to meet the demands. The borehole pump ran continuously, increasing electricity costs and maintenance expenses. The lack of adequate water storage limited irrigation for agribusiness, affected sports field maintenance and hindered community outreach efforts.

A Salesian noted, “Since the installation of the new storage tank, people report that water remains available even during busy times. Water that used to run out by the afternoon is now consistently available throughout the day. Early readings also indicate that the pump runs approximately 30% less each day. This lowers electricity consumption and reduces wear and tear on the pump, which is exactly what we aimed for.”

The new storage tank is greatly impacting the lives of people in the community, particularly women who are often tasked with finding water sources. Elizabeth is a mother of four, and every day, she and her daughter would wake before sunrise and walk more than three miles to fetch water. They often waited in long lines and were exhausted by the time they got home.

Elizabeth said, “We had to use the little water we had sparingly, as shortages can cause stress and hurt our health. I hoped my children could stay healthy and attend school instead of spending hours fetching water. Before the new tank was installed, the old one at Don Bosco often ran dry by midday. I would arrive and find it empty, forcing us to come back later or walk further to another borehole. This meant missing chores, such as washing clothes, or even delaying cooking.”

She added, “With the new water tank, for the first time, my children can bathe daily, and we all feel cleaner. We still have to carry heavy cans home because the water isn’t piped to our homes. It’s a lot of effort, but at least we don’t have to worry about the tank running out of fuel. If I could have one more thing, it would be a pipeline or even more taps closer to the village. This project has shown us that improvements are possible. For now, I am thankful that, although we must walk to Don Bosco, water is available there. I genuinely feel optimistic about the future. I am very grateful for this gift of water.”

To learn more about the Salesian Missions Clean Water Initiative, go to SalesianMissions.org/water.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with Don Bosco Makuya in Kenya were able to remove and replace hazardous asbestos roofing thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. All of the asbestos has been removed from the technical school and staff housing roofing, and new roofing has been added.

Close to 1,000 individuals, including students, teachers, residents, and parishioners, are benefiting from this project with safer classrooms and workshops. The technical school has close to 150 people, including students and staff, who are taking courses to learn a trade for employment. Courses are offered in masonry, plumbing, electrical installation, arc welding, motor vehicle mechanics, solar photovoltaic skills, carpentry and joinery, printing technology, and cabinet making.

Students come from the surrounding communities and often face significant poverty. The majority of students lack the tuition money to continue with their secondary or college education. Some even find it difficult to get three meals a day from their families due to harsh economic situations.

One of those interviewed about the project expressed joy, relief and gratitude for the project’s completion. They said, “The project has given us peace of mind knowing that all the students and staff are no longer exposed to hazardous asbestos.”

In addition, there is a parish community with more than 700 people, including youth and volunteers, who use the space. Stakeholders in this project cited reduced respiratory risks and increased long-term health benefits, especially for the students, staff, Salesians and all who visit the community, as well as residents previously exposed to asbestos fibers.

Many viewed the transition as a step toward a healthier, more sustainable future for the next generation. The stakeholder added, “The renovation work not only removed asbestos but also improved the overall condition of our buildings.”

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Boys Town (Bosco Boys) Langata is providing services to 32 boys who had been living on the streets of Nairobi, Kenya. The Salesian organization is the first reception place for youth to take part in a program of rehabilitation, literacy, and gradual inclusion into school or learning a trade.

A Salesian explained, “The boys stay at Langata for a period of three to six months, during which they receive assistance to stabilize them. Once they have made satisfactory progress, both personally and educationally, they are transferred to Bosco Boys Kuwinda to continue their education. At Kuwinda, the boys follow a standard education program, from primary to high school.”

Students who complete their primary education are then assisted with secondary education or are advised to choose technical training in sister institutions. The secondary education is most often provided at Don Bosco Technical Secondary School in the town of Embu, northeast of Nairobi.

With the two-year technical training, youth have a wide variety of skills to choose from, including tailoring, car engineering/mechanics, carpentry, electrical work, and welding, as well as secretarial skills and a full spectrum of computer-related job skills. After graduation, more than 80% of graduates are employed in their fields of study. Many students go on to attend university or establish their own businesses and become entrepreneurs in Nairobi.

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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

ANS – Kenya – More than thirty street children saved thanks to Bosco Boys Langata

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run ProFuturo Digital Education Program in Rwanda is empowering teachers with digital skills and providing students with access to quality learning materials. As many teachers were unfamiliar with the technology tools, the program helped them get up to date.

Gisele Umugwaneza, a ProFuturo coach coordinating five private schools in Kigali, explained, “When we started the project, it was not easy. Training teachers was very difficult because they did not understand what the ProFuturo program will bring to them.”

Coaches like Umugwaneza implemented personalized communication strategies, and the program’s impact is now evident. Umugwaneza noted that teachers are now more motivated and capable of independently preparing students to use the digital tools. She explained, “Students are familiar with the tablet, how to navigate from one point to another. They can even work on them if the teacher is not there, ensuring continuity of learning.”

As a result of the program, some schools are increasing their enrollment and seeing students who had dropped out return to class. Other schools are starting to see an increase in test scores and reduced student dropout rates.

Agathe Kandema, a coach for six schools, highlighted the program’s contribution to inclusivity and access to learning resources. “The best of ProFuturo is that those students from the poor families have access to the content as the same level of the students from wealthier families.”

Dominique Uwarugira, ProFuturo project coordinator, emphasized the program’s widespread reach and impact. “So far, we have 42 schools under the supervision of the Salesians of Don Bosco. All the schools are motivated and committed to changing education in Rwanda and incorporating more digital education.”

Uwarugira also highlighted the program’s success in training teachers and students to use digital tools. “We can be happy to see that Rwandan children are now able to use digital tools in their studies. We can say it is a very good step in terms of the use of technology.”

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Youth who are poor are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.

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

ANS – Rwanda – “A Game-Changer”: ProFuturo Coaches Lead Digital Education Revolution in Rwanda

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Young women have graduated from Don Bosco Muhazi Vocational Training School in Rwanda after a six-month course in agriculture supported by the Gender Matters for Green TVET project. The project focused on education for young mothers and other youth who are vulnerable. The graduation ceremony brought together students and teaching staff united in the power of second chances and empowerment through education.

A Salesian noted, “The graduation represented a historic milestone for many young mothers and youth graduates, particularly those who overcame enormous personal and social challenges to pursue a formation in sustainable agriculture.”

In his keynote address, Ahobantegeye Theodore, director of studies at Don Bosco Muhazi, congratulated the graduates and applauded their resilience and determination. At the end of the ceremony, the new graduates received certificates and an agricultural starter kit, symbolizing not only their success but also a new beginning. Many expressed an interest in setting up cooperatives and even starting small agricultural enterprises.

Don Bosco Muhazi Vocational Training School educates 261 youth aged 16-23. In the district 22.0% of people these ages previously attended school and have left for some reason, 75.2% are currently attending school and 2.8% have never attended secondary school.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Youth who are poor are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.

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

ANS – Rwanda – Don Bosco Muhazi celebrates graduation ceremony for young mothers and vulnerable young people

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in the Gumbo refugee camp in Juba, South Sudan*, are improving the living conditions of vulnerable families by providing waterproof tarpaulins for the rainy season. More than 5,000 people are impacted by this donation.

The humanitarian emergency in South Sudan continues to worsen because of 12 years of internal war, which is compounded by the conflict in neighboring Sudan. Thousands of people flee every day from violence and insecurity, and many have found refuge in the camp for displaced persons run by Salesian missionaries in Gumbo.

A Salesian explained, “In this extremely precarious environment, where more than 6,000 people survive in very difficult conditions, the arrival of the rainy season always poses an additional threat. The plastic sheets that served as roofs for many of the makeshift temporary shelters were worn or torn after years of use in extreme weather conditions, with high temperatures, strong winds and torrential rains. Without adequate protection, families, especially those headed by women, the elderly, persons with disabilities and young children, were at real risk of disease, flooding, and losing what little they had.”

Salesian missionaries, with the support of the Provincial Planning and Development Office, launched an emergency response to distribute quality waterproof plastic sheeting to the 750 most vulnerable families in the settlement. Thanks to substantial funding and rapid logistics, UV-resistant tarpaulins were purchased. Each family received two, which is enough to cover their temporary shelter.

Father Leo Arokianathan, who heads the project, said, “It was not just about delivering materials, but about ensuring the dignity of these people and showing them that they are not alone. The seemingly simple gesture has had a profound impact. More than 5,000 people, including 3,610 women, now sleep in dry conditions, protected and with a greater sense of security.”

A mother who received the tarpaulins added, “The sheet is more than just a roof. It’s the difference between a peaceful night and a frightening night in the rain.” The sheets also help to preserve the privacy of families and protect essential items, including kitchen utensils and children’s clothes.

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

ANS – South Sudan – Tarpaulins to shelter from the rain and give dignity to displaced persons in chaos

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Vocational Training School, located inside of the Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp in Uganda, has a new high-capacity water tank thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding is part of the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.”

Salesian missionaries living and working among the refugees at Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp provide a range of educational and social development programs for the 93,000 people living in the camp. Most of them are from South Sudan, and 60% are under age 13. Salesians have been supporting refugees since the opening of the camp in 2016.

With so many people living in the camp, the current water sources simply aren’t enough. The new tank will help to provide water for the students at the vocational school and to the broader refugee population once the project is completed. While the tank has been installed, the current water pumps aren’t adequate to fill the tank. Salesians will finalize the project when the funding for new water pumps becomes available.

A Salesian noted, “The project aims to directly benefit more than 750 students and workers at Don Bosco Vocational Training School inside the camp. These populations, already living in extremely precarious conditions, depend on constant access to safe drinking water to meet their basic needs. The lack of sufficient storage capacity weakens the water supply, significantly increasing the risk of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea and cholera. The tank, once operational, will address this critical need by improving the availability, consistency, and quality of water distributed in the camp. The project will also have a structural impact on the daily lives of refugees.”

Ozele Pascal, aged 32, is one of the beneficiaries who lives at the camp. Originally from the Alur tribe in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he serves as a volunteer in agricultural activities, including crop cultivation and animal husbandry. He is also employed as a gardener at Don Bosco Mission Palabek.

Pascal said, “My hope is to see the community focus on sustainable food production through kitchen gardening and the construction of decent housing, including homes, latrines, and shelters. I wish for improved access to clothes and basic needs, better hygiene, and moral development within the community.”

He added, “Before the installation of the 150,000-liter water tank, we faced significant water shortages, especially during the dry season. Access to sufficient water for drinking, hygiene, cooking and sanitation was a major challenge. The absence of an irrigation system meant limited capacity to irrigate crops, which affected food production. When I saw the installation of the water tank, I was very excited. I thought the tank was enormous and recognized its purpose for water storage. I was happy about this development because it signified an improvement in our water access. I am optimistic that it will positively impact our community.”

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Uganda

UNHCR – Uganda Refugees

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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries were able to establish a sick bay for children who are ill at Don Bosco CALM Nursery and Primary School in Uganda thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The sick bay will provide services to more than 700 children.

Uganda faces significant challenges in providing health care, particularly to vulnerable populations, including children from low-income backgrounds. Limited access to health care facilities, a high disease prevalence and limited financial resources make it difficult for children to receive timely and adequate medical care.

A Salesian explained, “Establishing a sick bay at Don Bosco CALM ensures that children have the immediate medical care that they need, ensuring that minor injuries and illness are treated properly. This will also help manage chronic conditions, provide first aid, and offer preventive care like vaccinations, hygiene education and nutritional support that children need. Further, this will help cut down on time lost from school due to illness, allowing children to grow up healthy and have a better quality of life.”

Nine-year-old Daniel is one of the children who has received care in the new area. He used to be frequently sick and missed many days of school. He said, “I used to stay in bed for days when I got sick. At the sick bay, the nurse is kind and I don’t fear being sick anymore.”

The sick bay is staffed by a nurse who assess and treats the children. She said, “When Daniel first came in, he was scared and in pain. But soon, he was back to playing soccer with his friends.”

Don Bosco CALM rescues, rehabilitates and reintegrates children who have been living on the street back into society. Salesians meet basic needs and provide education, socio-cultural activities, and recreation such as sports programming to help youth have a bright future.

Salesians work primarily with boys without homes and those who have been orphaned, battered, and neglected. Salesians also provide support for other vulnerable youth and children, including those with HIV/AIDS. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have been working in Kakuma Refugee Camp in Turkana County in northern Kenya for the past 25 years. Established in 1992, Kakuma is one of Africa’s largest refugee settlements, sheltering thousands fleeing conflict. Salesians began their work under the leadership of Father Vincent Donati. Seeing the urgent needs of young refugees, Fr. Donati enlisted former students from Don Bosco Technical School in Embu to bring education to the camp.

The first vocational school welcomed 153 students, supported by the Lutheran World Federation and Italian donors. By 2000, a permanent Salesian community was established. Today, the mission collaborates closely with United Nations High Commissioner on Refugees (UNHCR), which funds most of its projects.

A Salesian explained, “Over the years, Don Bosco Kakuma has grown into seven centers, offering technical and vocational training in fields like carpentry, tailoring, welding, agriculture, photovoltaics, and motor mechanics. From humble beginnings, the mission now serves around 2,300 students annually, with over 19,000 graduates since its inception.”

The Silver Jubilee Mass, led by Bishop John Mbinda of the Diocese of Lodwar, was the centerpiece of the anniversary celebration. Attended by 18 priests, students, and members of the host community, the event featured a vibrant liturgy and cultural performances. In his homily, Bishop Mbinda commended the Salesians for their dedicated service to young refugees and emphasized the transformative power of Kenya’s youth, who make up 70% of the population.

After the Mass, they blessed the newly constructed administration block, funded by Slovak Aid. Celebrations continued with cultural displays and speeches from the Rector of Don Bosco Kakuma, a UNHCR representative, the Salesian provincial, and student representatives. Despite the challenges of life in the camp, Salesians remain steadfast in their mission offering hope and opportunity to the refugee youth.

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

ANS – Kenya – Kakuma Refugee Camp: 25 Years of Salesian Service and Dedication

Mission Don Bosco

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Muhazi Technical and Vocational School in Rwanda had the funding to support 260 students thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding provided food assistance and essential supplies. Fifty of these students, who live off school grounds, received hygiene kits, food supplies and rent support.

A Salesian noted, “This aid was especially crucial for students from remote areas who struggle to meet their basic needs while pursuing technical education. It enabled them to focus more effectively on their studies. School staff and students alike have expressed increased morale and hope with testimonies indicating that the aid has stabilized their living conditions temporarily. In the longer term, this support fosters resilience, reduces dropout rates, and promotes a conducive learning environment, helping students build a better future for themselves and their communities.”

Don Bosco Muhazi educates 261 youth aged 16-23. In the district 22.0% of people these ages previously attended school and have left for some reason, 75.2% are currently attending school and 2.8% have never attended secondary school.

Vumiriya Uwihoreye, a student benefiting from the program, said, “We are very happy. Many of us live in difficult circumstances, but seeing donors like this shows that there are many kind-hearted people interested in helping those with limited resources succeed.”

Sister Nyanzira Leocadie, a school staff member, explained, “The support we received is so helpful because until now we were wondering how the children would survive, especially since the school’s previous funding has been reduced due to economic problems around the world. The food for the students was running out, and we were wondering how we would feed them. But now, we are spending the whole semester in good health so that the children can study well.”

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Youth who are poor are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) More than 1,800 people in a Salesian camp for people who are internally displaced, located in Gumbo, on the outskirts of the city of Juba, South Sudan*, had access to better nutrition during the second half of 2024. The food shipment was the result of 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.

People in the camp face challenges, including the rising price of commodities and the weakening of the local currency. Food insecurity is a major challenge. Thanks to the meals, Salesians have seen reduced hunger, improved nutrition and enhanced food security.

Salesians have tried to address food challenges by offering small plots of land, encouraging people who are displaced and the local community to cultivate crops to supplement the meal rations that are offered. However, this can only happen during the rainy season and not everyone can receive a plot. Therefore, Salesians heavily rely on partner support to address the food insecurity.

Selwa Atoo Ukech was one of the recipients. She is a 57-year-old South Sudanese woman who was living with her family when the civil war broke out in 2014. During the war, she lost family members and, with her children, sought refuge with the Salesians in Gumbo.

Ukech explained that the Rise Against Hunger meals brought relief and created a sense of joy and food security for her family and the camp community. She said, “The meals provide energy for us to complete our daily duties, help our bodies to rebuild and repair, and provide overall well-being both mentally and physically. Most importantly, it has provided a sense of food security for us.”

Salesian missionaries in South Sudan are dedicated to providing programs and services across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan in 2011 but has faced an ongoing civil war that started in December 2013 and continues today. This has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis. According to the United States Institute of Peace, more than 10 million people have been forced from their homes. The war has also triggered the world’s worst hunger crisis with more than 18 million Sudanese living in acute food insecurity.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) More than 2,100 youth at Salesian schools in Uganda have access to better nutrition 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. Three Salesian schools received meals in the second half of 2024.

More than 650 youth at Don Bosco Children and Life Mission (Don Bosco CALM) benefited from the nutritious meals, as well as more than 1,000 students at the Don Bosco School Bombo and close to 400 students at the Salesian vocational school in Kamuli.

In Uganda, like the rest of East Africa, food prices have increased, which has in turn impacted feeding programs at Salesian schools. These economic challenges are a result of climate change that affected the agriculture sector, doubling the cost of basic food staples like maize, rice and beans.

A Salesian noted, “The Rise Against Hunger meals supported the academic activities at the Salesian centers. The meals provided adequate nutrition for the students and staff, allowing them to continue their teaching and learning activities without interruption. At the center in Kamuli, the donation uplifted community spirit and strengthened the bond among parents and stakeholders, who appreciated the assistance during a tough period. It also enabled the school to channel its scarce resources into other pressing priorities, such as procuring teaching materials and maintaining facilities, thereby enhancing the learning environment.”

One of the recipients at Don Bosco CALM was David Musoke, age 18, who is living with HIV. He is now going to secondary school and getting the medication he needs, and he has a safe place to stay that provides nutritious meals.

The meal program has made a big difference in Musoke’s life. He said, “My immune system has improved, and I don’t get sick as often. I have more energy for school and playing with my friends. I want to become a doctor and be able to help other children like me have a better life.”

Salesians at the schools work primarily with boys who are homeless and those who have been orphaned, battered, and neglected. They also provide support for other vulnerable youth and children, including those who are HIV/AIDS positive. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco CALM

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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BURUNDI

(MissionNewswire) More than 1,600 students attending Don Bosco high schools in Ngozi and Buterere, Burundi*, had access to better nutrition during the second half of 2024 as a result of 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 feeding program created positive changes at the schools. At Don Bosco Ngozi, students had more energy and better engaged with their studies. During the period, Don Bosco Ngozi organized summer camps for youth to offer them positive activities during the break. Once school started, there were various sporting and cultural activities organized during this time, including a soccer tournament.

One of the recipients at Don Bosco Ngozi was Jean Nixon Ndemeye, aged 13. He said, “I feel very happy and encouraged. In the future, I would like to become a doctor in medicine to help other people. Since the Rise Against Hunger meals, I am enjoying eating with my classmates and I have more energy for sports.”

He added, “When I hear about other people who are committing themselves to doing good, like those making it possible for us to eat these meals, I feel confident that I can do something for others.”

In Buterere, the economic situation is dire. There is a lack of fuel for vehicles and an unstable communication network. During a three-month period, the price of almost all items tripled. This situation has increased the number of school dropouts as families require youth to work to pay for food and other necessities of family life.

The meals offered an incentive to keep students at Don Bosco Buterere, which provides a youth center, a technical and vocational training center, a secondary school, a parish, and a shrine. More than 600 youth attend programs at the oratory each day. Salesians offer sports, games and cultural programs. The school has roughly 700 students and the parish is one of the most popular in the area.

Burundi has seen more than a decade of violence and conflict, contributing to widespread poverty according to UNICEF. Children are some of the most severely affected by the country’s rampant poverty. Fifty-three percent of children under the age of 5 suffer from growth stunting caused by inadequate food, low-quality diet, poor infant feeding practices, poor household management of childhood diseases and the general decline of the country’s health system.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Burundi

UNICEF – Burundi

*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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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Vocational Training Center, located in Rango, Rwanda, ensures youth who are vulnerable can access the skills training they need to succeed in life. Uwimana Patience is one student who has found hope through tailoring courses. As a single mother of a newborn child, she lives with her mother and faces significant uncertainty about the future.

“Our house is in ruins. When it rains, we have to leave and seek shelter outside to avoid getting wet,” said Patience. She explained that it is hard for them to eat and that every bit of money she has goes toward their survival. After attending her classes, Patience does whatever work she can find — washing dishes, fetching water and cleaning houses — barely earning enough to provide for herself, her baby and her chronically ill mother.

While Patience learns sewing techniques at school, she worries about her family. She said, “These courses are extremely important, but I can’t stop thinking about how to provide for my family.”

Poverty is a critical issue in Rwanda. The World Bank estimated that the poverty rate stood at 48.4% in 2024, a slight improvement from 2023, with projections suggesting a decrease to 47.0% by 2026. These economic hardships are further exacerbated by high unemployment rates and limited access to quality education and job opportunities for young people.

Patience’s story reflects the realities faced by many young people in Salesian vocational training centers, where students strive to gain an education while navigating dire circumstances. The center relies on the generosity of donors to support students like Patience, but the challenges remain overwhelming. Many graduates lack the resources needed to secure a stable livelihood and build a better future for themselves.

A Salesian explained, “Donor contributions remain the most effective way to make a difference and offer tangible support to individuals like Patience. Even a small contribution can lighten heavy burdens and provide the tools for a sustainable future.”

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

ANS – Rwanda – Hope Amid Despair: Uwimana Patience’s Fight for a Better Future at the Don Bosco Vocational Training Center in Rango

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

The post RWANDA: Skills training helps provide hope for young mother first appeared on MissionNewswire.

KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Ten Belgian students from the Salesian Province of San Giovanni Berchmans volunteered at the Kebene Children’s Home in Ukunda, near Mombasa, Kenya. From Feb. 25 to March 6, students from the Salesian house “Don Bosco” in Hechtel, Belgium, learned and provided support to children and youth who had been living on the street.

The children and youth at Kebene receive food, shelter and education. They also learn how to sew and gain other skills that help them secure employment. In addition, during the COVID-19 pandemic, authorities requested that the shelter accommodate young girls who had experienced early pregnancies. The center houses around 150-160 children, including the babies of young mothers.

The trip was part of a project that allows students to dedicate one hour a week to an activity of their choice. According to Mark Van Dyck, a supervising teacher, the trip to Kenya has become popular, with 40 students who wanted to focus their time on helping others applying.

Van Dyck notes that preparation for the students’ trip was important. He said, “At the shelter, there are young mothers who became pregnant as a result of violence. These girls have painful pasts, and encountering such realities can be distressing. We wanted to prepare the students for this while also allowing them to fully experience it.”

Once back in Belgium, the students reflected on their extraordinary journey. On social media the students remarked, “We are immensely grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in this project. We laughed, cried, sweated a lot, and most of all, we learned so much. Kebene will always have a place in our hearts.”

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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

ANS – Kenya – Belgian Salesian Students on a Humanitarian Mission with Street Children

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are providing aid and support for people as violence continues to escalate in South Sudan*. Tensions have now reached the capital of Juba, where several explosions have been reported. Fear of a new surge in violence is driving thousands of people to flee their homes.

Salesians remain committed to supporting women, children and displaced persons. Manuel Ballester, a humanitarian worker with the Salesian organization Youth & Development, said, “In recent weeks, tensions and violence have resurfaced in South Sudan. The fragile peace built after the 2018 agreement is once again under threat.”

The situation in the world’s youngest country — officially established in 2011 — had already been deteriorating for some time. In March, the president dismissed several government officials, while violent clashes between rebels and government forces erupted in the north. The first vice president was arrested by government forces, further inflaming tensions between rival factions. The situation is extremely dangerous, compounded by the looming threat of a cholera outbreak among the displaced, reported Doctors Without Borders.

In Juba alone, Salesians provide aid to more than 6,000 people who have been displaced, most of whom have fled from central South Sudan. Many have been living in Salesian facilities for more than 13 years, where they receive care and education. At the Juba educational center, Salesians ensure access to schooling for 3,000 children and young people.

“We are present in Juba, as well as in other areas of the country such as Tonj, Maridi, Wau, and Kuajok, where we run schools and training centers for youth,” explained Father Luis Manuel Moral, director of the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid.

Salesian missionaries in South Sudan are dedicated to providing programs and services across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

Representatives from the Salesian Missions Office in Madrid have expressed concern over the renewed conflict and its devastating impact on millions of women and children. The situation is dire — especially considering that over 90% of South Sudan’s population lives below the poverty line, more than 1.7 million children are out of school, and over 75% of the population depends on humanitarian aid for survival.

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

ANS – South Sudan – The Country Once Again on the Brink of Collapse Amid a New Wave of Violence

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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.

The post SOUTH SUDAN: Salesians continue support as violence increases in country first appeared on MissionNewswire.

KENYA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Technical and Vocational Training Center in Makuyu, Kenya, has undergone much-needed renovations to improve the learning environment for students thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

The funding was used to renovate student bathrooms, paint the entire center, cement and plaster exterior pillars and the interior of some classes, and replace windowpanes and frames. The next project is replacing the roofing of the center, which has asbestos.

The center offers training to youth and adults aged 13-35 to equip them with the job skills they need. The students come from the surrounding communities and often face significant poverty. The majority of students lack the tuition money to continue with their secondary or college education. Some even find it difficult to get three meals a day from their families due to harsh economic situations.

The center has become a refuge for these students to help them become self-sufficient. Salesians offer technical training in various areas of specialization including masonry, plumbing, electrical installation, arc welding, motor vehicle mechanics, solar photovoltaic skills, carpentry and joinery, printing technology, and cabinet making.

One of the students impacted is James Munene, who is the oldest in a family of seven. He is studying motor vehicle mechanics. Munene said, “When I finish school, I want to get a job and help my family and pay school fees for my brothers and sisters. Thanks to the repairs and painting, our school is very beautiful. I feel proud to be here.”

The economic situation of the students has led the center to face financial constraints. A Salesian explained, “The limited funds we have are channeled to purchasing training materials, and salaries for the teachers and staff. To equip the school with modern machinery and equipment has proven to be a challenge to date. This is why we are so grateful for the funding that has enabled us to make improvements to the school, which positively impacts the learning environment.”

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Utume Salesian Theological College, a center for learning for those who are becoming priests in Nairobi, Kenya, has new bathrooms for its multi-use field for the community thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The project is part of the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.”

Salesians rent out their field for use for community activities including sports, but the bathrooms were more than 25 years old. In order to be able to continue to rent out the space, which brings in revenue to help Don Bosco Utume remain self-sufficient, the block of bathrooms needed to be updated. The Karen Hospital next to the school also uses the field often, while youth use it for events.

With the funding provided, Salesians were able to build a block of bathrooms for men and women. The toilets are modern and have sensors for flushing to avoid wasting water. There are also changing rooms, lockers and showers available.

A Salesian noted, “We are grateful for the funding and what we have been able to accomplish with this project. One of the most important things for us was making sure that the men’s and women’s bathrooms had at least one toilet for a person with a disability. This project has enabled Don Bosco Utume to be part of a disability inclusion agenda.”

With the new bathrooms, Don Bosco Utume has improved the field grounds by making it a friendly environment for those using it. This will significantly contribute to improved income earned from the grounds.

Collectively, Salesians at Don Bosco Utume provide support and services to more than 1,000 youth. The school has 169 students and 20 staff members. On monthly basis, the facility serves around 1,600 people.

To learn more about the Salesian Missions Clean Water Initiative, go to SalesianMissions.org/water.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries working in the Kakuma Refugee Camp in northern Kenya are providing education and social support for people who have been displaced. Kakuma Refugee Camp has more than 225,000 refugees from nine countries including South Sudan*, Sudan*, Rwanda and Burundi*. It is estimated that more than 50% of refugees are youth and children.

Operated by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in collaboration with Salesian missionaries and other humanitarian organizations, Kakuma Refugee Camp offers refugees safety, security, and life-saving services such as housing, health care, clean water and sanitation.

Of the organizations working in the camp, Salesians are the only ones residing in the camp among the people. This has given them an ability to learn firsthand the needs of the refugees and develop bonds with the people.

To help refugees gain skills for employment, Salesians operate the Don Bosco Technical Institute in the camp with the help of UNHCR. The courses offered include masonry, electrical and solar, motor vehicle mechanics, plumbing, dressmaking, welding and fabrication, secretarial, and computer, as well as literacy programs.

To increase access to the training, Salesians run four other centers across the camp that offer the same services. Over the years, Salesians have provided education to more than 3,000 refugees that have enabled them to earn a living in the camp and in their countries of origin.

A Salesian explained, “Youth have been given the opportunity to earn a living, both in the refugee camp, which is now structured like a large village, with no shortage of shops, workshops and laboratories, and in their country of origin, should they return.”

Salesians also provide spiritual service to the refugees through the only Catholic parish. The Holy Cross Catholic Parish provides spiritual services at 10 out-stations spread across the camp. Salesians also launched the Savio Club in 2014 to provide character development for children. Today, there are more than 1,000 children involved in club activities.

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Photo courtesy of Mission Don Bosco

ANS – Kenya – A future for young refugees in Kakuma

Mission Don Bosco

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

*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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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Wau and Tonj, in the St. Josephine Bakhita Delegation of Sudan* and South Sudan*, organized teacher training to start the academic year 2025. Aimed at all primary and secondary school teachers and technical center educators, the training helped teachers deepen their understanding of Don Bosco’s work and the Salesian preventive system and educational philosophy.

A Salesian noted, “The teacher training sessions were enriched by interactive activities, lectures and reflective discussions, in which participants exchanged insights on the Salesian education system and how to apply Don Bosco’s principles in today’s educational context in South Sudan.”

Through similar training, Salesians also educated teachers in Kuajok, Gumbo and Maridi, committing themselves to achieving the planned objectives inspired by the Strenna for 2025: “Anchored in hope, pilgrims with young people.” The Strenna was announced last year by Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime.

Salesian missionaries in South Sudan are dedicated to providing programs and services across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan in 2011 but has faced an ongoing civil war that started in December 2013 and continues today. This has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis. According to the United States Institute of Peace, more than 10 million people have been forced from their homes. The war has also triggered the world’s worst hunger crisis with more than 18 million Sudanese living in acute food insecurity.

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Sources:

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

ANS – South Sudan – Salesian Animation for Teachers

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in the Atede community in the Gulu district of Uganda have been able to purchase land for a new agriculture school thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The new Salesian school will provide a source of education for poor youth while also growing food to address food security issues. Currently, the district only has a few secondary schools and one vocational school.

The new school will feature areas for livestock as well as land for growing staple crops like maize, sweet potatoes and other vegetables. The harvest from these crops will help bolster the school’s feeding programs for its students. Students will also learn how to run an agribusiness to sell the surplus.

A Salesian explained, “The school will focus on teaching students sustainable and environmentally friendly farming techniques. They will have practical and hands-on lessons that will also incorporate education on agribusiness. Salesians will also focus on agriculture research, experimentation and innovation. The bonds between the school and the local community will strengthen through these agriculture initiatives.”

Nearly 21% of the population in Uganda lives below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. This number rises to 33% for those living in the northern region where poverty is greatest. While the country has seen some economic growth as well as improvement in its U.N. Human Development Index ranking over the last 20 years, the country still ranks near the bottom at 159 out of 193 countries. After decades of war left many displaced, the people of Uganda face many significant challenges as they work to rebuild their country.

Uganda’s literacy rate has improved with 73% of the population literate, but only 23% of Ugandans go on to acquire a secondary education. According to UNICEF, one of the biggest challenges in the country is combating the serious increase of HIV/AIDS that has left millions of children orphaned.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Boys Town Technical Institute, located in Nairobi, Kenya, awarded certificates to 321 youth who completed two years of rigorous training in trades, including carpentry, plumbing, tailoring, mechanics, computer science, and solar technology.

The two-year technical training provides youth with a wide variety of skills. After graduation, more than 80%of graduates are employed in their fields of study. Many students go on to attend university or establish their own businesses and become entrepreneurs in Nairobi.

After the Mass celebrated by Father George TJ, superior of the Salesian Province of East Africa, the participants attended cultural shows and speeches that highlighted the graduates. The event also marked the official opening and blessing of a newly built pavilion that hosted the ceremony.

In addition to the awarding of certificates, recognition was given to the students who participated in the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival, celebrating their involvement and contribution. The event attracted hundreds of participants, including parents, relatives, friends of graduates, benefactors and partners of the institution.

“At the institute, students have access to the training and support needed to thrive in the job market,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian education ensures youth are able to take the skills learned in the classroom and utilize them in real working environments, benefiting both the student and the employer.”

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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

ANS – Kenya – Graduation ceremony for 321 young people and opening of a new pavilion at the Don Bosco Boys Town Technical Institute in Nairobi

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries living and working among the refugees at Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp in the border town of Palabek, Uganda, aim to focus some of their programmatic efforts on young mothers. The camp is currently home to nearly 72,000 refugees and asylum seekers, mostly from South Sudan, and 60% are under age 13. Salesians have been supporting refugees since the opening of the camp in 2016.

According to the rules of the education system in Uganda, students who are pregnant or nursing mothers cannot attend school, which means that many of these young women do not receive the education and training they need.

A Salesian explained, “If they do go to school, they usually stop breastfeeding because they do not have facilities to have their babies nearby when they are in class. This is something unthinkable for many of these young mothers, who do not have other means to feed their babies.”

The Salesian added, “Almost all of these teenage mothers in Palabek have fled war and have not had the time or support they need to develop, improve their self-esteem, or learn how to look after children. They need training and information on how to care for their babies and themselves. It is difficult for them to maintain basic hygiene routines and healthy habits due to the lack of external supports available to them.”

Salesians want to create a safe space for babies to stay while mothers are in class. This would make it easier for these mothers to continue breastfeeding and would give them peace of mind. The goal is to be able to provide skills training and emotional education to promote healthy habits, good hygiene, and higher self-esteem.

The Salesian explained, “We are sure that with a little support and a program dedicated to these young mothers, the future will be better and brighter for all of them. A future full of hope, dreams, and joy for them and their babies. Through Don Bosco, they could overcome the challenges they face, develop their talents, make friends, build peace, train in leadership skills, and be well-equipped for the future.”

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Sources:

Photo and information courtesy of Salesians of Ireland

ANS – Uganda – The Teenage Mothers of Palabek

Salesian Missions – Uganda

UNHCR – Uganda Refugees

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ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Gambella in Ethiopia* held a soccer tournament in celebration of the 50-year anniversary of Salesians working in the region. The Jubilee Premier League soccer competition brought together various organizations to participate in 12 teams that were created. The event was attended by more than 1,000 people.

The opening match was between the two nongovernmental organizations of World Vision and ZOA. The ceremony was presided over by Alemitu Omod, president of the regional state of Gambella, and Dr. Gatluak Ruon, vice-president. In her opening address, Omod praised the Salesians and recalled the contributions of the Catholic Church in Ethiopia.

A Salesian explained, “The championship matches will continue for almost three months, ending near the feast of Don Bosco in January. The event brought great enthusiasm to the city, thanks to the wide coverage on local media and social networks. On the occasion of the Jubilee Year, a small shrub was also planted and President Omod visited the local Salesian center.”

The Salesian community in Mekele marked another milestone during the jubilee. The school held its first graduation after a five-year delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic and civil war. The graduation was significant in the region’s journey toward recovery.

The Salesian added, “The Salesian community’s commitment to education and empowerment has been a beacon of hope in the region. Even during the hardest of times of war in the region, the four Salesian communities of the Tigray region always stood with the people and for the people, offering the assistance and the aid that was much needed during that time. As the Salesian congregation embarks on this milestone anniversary, it reaffirms its dedication to serving the people of Ethiopia, fostering education, skills development, and holistic growth.”

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world with more than 38% of its population living in poverty, according to Feed the Future. Close to 85% of the country’s workforce is employed in agriculture, but frequent droughts severely affect the agricultural economy leaving more than 12 million people chronically, or at least periodically, food insecure. In addition, more than two-thirds of the population is illiterate.

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

ANS – Ethiopia – A football tournament at Don Bosco Gambella for the 50th anniversary of the Salesian presence in the country

ANS – Ethiopia – Salesian community celebrates first graduation after 5-year hiatus

Salesian Missions – Ethiopia

UNICEF – Ethiopia

*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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TANZANIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Kilimanjaro International Institute for Telecommunications, Electronics and Computers (Don Bosco KIITEC), located in Arusha, Tanzania, has a new hostel for 300 students thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The construction for the hostel had been started thanks to a local benefactor, and the donor funding from Salesian Missions was utilized to build the upper floors and finish the building, including plumbing, tiling, doors, electrical work, and painting. The building is currently being used for 150 students.

Don Bosco KIITEC serves poor youth and young adults. The school sits on a 15-acre campus that offers the most advanced training technologies in the region. Courses include electrical engineering with industrial automation, renewable energy, and computer science, as well as electronics and telecommunications.

One of the students, Herman Exaud John, has enjoyed his time at Don Bosco KIITEC. He said, “I am so proud of myself, and I feel I’m at the right place because until now I have learned a lot through different programs like the entrepreneurship training. It really helped me a lot since I got new skills to handle my life. I am staying in the hostel which is a place to live and learn. We have all the facilities there. I would really like to thank all who supported us.”

The school’s education model is based on a hands-on and student-centered approach to learning with full access to modern equipment simulating real-world experiences. The school is also registered and accredited by the National Council for Technical Education and awards successful graduates with a three-year National Technical Award Level Six diploma.

In Tanzania, 67.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. While the country has seen some economic growth in tourism, mining, trade and communication, the number of Tanzanians living below the poverty line has marginally increased due to rapid population growth. In some regions, up to half of the population struggles to meet the cost of essential food and shelter and other basic necessities like clothing, health care and education. Nearly 43% of the population lives in extreme poverty.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Tanzania

UNICEF – Tanzania

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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with Don Bosco Children and Life Mission (Don Bosco CALM), in Namugongo, northeast of Kampala, Uganda, had the funding for a rain harvest water system thanks to the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.” Salesian Missions is the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The project was completed in June 2024.

The new water system has ensured reliable clean water for the 558 students at the Salesian school along with staff, others on campus and people in the nearby community. The water is available for drinking, cooking and hygiene. The new system is also working to ensure that the campus no longer floods during heavy rains by controlling the impact of running water over the grounds. With the addition of the new system, Salesians are saving money on expensive water bills and can reinvest this money into the school.

Okori Timothy, age 10, is one of the students who have benefited from the project. He explained, “Before the new water system, my friends and I struggled to have the water we needed for washing clothes and for bathing. During the rainy season it was difficult to play because the field would be flooded. This new water system is solving both problems. We have the water we need and can use the grounds to play and be with our friends.”

Don Bosco CALM rescues, rehabilitates and reintegrates street children back into society. Salesians meet basic needs and provide education, socio-cultural activities, and recreation such as sports programming to help youth have a bright future.

Salesians work primarily with boys without homes and those who have been orphaned, battered, and neglected. Salesians also provide support for other vulnerable youth and children, including those with HIV/AIDS. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

Uganda’s literacy rate has improved with 73% of the population literate, but only 23% of Ugandans go on to acquire a secondary education. Nearly 21% of the population in Uganda lives below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. This number rises to 33% for those living in the northern region where poverty is greatest. While the country has seen some economic growth as well as improvement in its U.N. Human Development Index ranking over the last 20 years, the country still ranked near the bottom at 159 out of 193 countries in 2024.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco CALM

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Boys Town, located in Nairobi, has become Kenya‘s first Amazon Web Services (AWS) Digital Academy member institution. The launch event held Sept. 10 marked a significant step forward in cloud skills training and certification in the region.

A Salesian explained, “As an AWS Digital Academy member institution, Don Bosco Boys Town is now authorized to offer digital literacy cloud skills training and certification, potentially opening new avenues for youth employment in the rapidly growing tech sector.”

The launch ceremony was attended by key figures from both government and private sectors. During the event, the Salesian vice-provincial in East Africa presented an overview of the organization’s global presence, emphasizing its commitment to youth skill development. The partnership between Amazon, Thin Tech and Don Bosco Boys Town is expected to create new opportunities for digital skills training in Kenya.

A Salesian noted, “As the first AWS Academy in Kenya, this initiative is poised to play a crucial role in bridging the digital skills gap and preparing the country’s workforce for the demands of the modern digital economy. The success of this program could set a precedent for similar initiatives across the African continent.”

Don Bosco Boys Town provides education and technical skills training to former street children. Students who complete their primary education are then assisted with secondary education or are advised to choose technical training in sister institutions. The secondary education is most often provided at Don Bosco Technical Secondary School in the town of Embu, northeast of Nairobi.

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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

ANS – Kenya – Don Bosco Boys Town: Kenya’s First AWS Digital Academy Launched

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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TANZANIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Oysterbay in Tanzania has received basketball equipment for the teams Don Bosco Oratory for boys and Don Bosco Troncatti for girls, thanks to Jubilee Life Insurance Corporation of Tanzania Limited. During a ceremony for the donation, the company’s CEO, Helena Mzena, emphasized the donation was part of the company’s social responsibility efforts, aimed at helping youth achieve their goals, according to a recent article in The Guardian, a newspaper in Tanzania.

Father Joachim Sivali, the teams’ patron, expressed gratitude for the company’s support. In the article, he said, “Sports is a cornerstone of good health. We must continue to support our youth so they can thrive when empowered.”

Stanslaus Zuberi, chair of Don Bosco Oratory, also praised the initiative in the article and highlighted the importance of the sponsorship. He noted, “We pledge to be the best ambassadors for our teams and Don Bosco as a whole as we work toward achieving our goals.”

In the article, Mzena said, “Jubilee Life Insurance’s new initiative reflects our commitment to going beyond the traditional role of insurance. We’re not just providing services; we’re offering valuable insights that help people make informed decisions for their health and financial well-being. Today’s initiative to sponsor Don Bosco Oratory and Don Bosco Troncatti basketball teams is a testament to our dedication to supporting youth in reaching their aspirations.”

Sports are a significant part of Salesian education, helping youth to develop teamwork, communication, respect and team spirit. In addition to the sport’s teams, Don Bosco Oysterbay offers training in five technical courses including carpentry, electrical, mechanics, secretarial and welding together with aluminum works. All of the courses are three years in length except for the secretarial course, which is for two years. The school has also started a six-month tailoring course. Most recently, technical training has expanded to include training in renewable energy.

In Tanzania, 67.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. While the country has seen some economic growth in tourism, mining, trade and communication, the number of Tanzanians living below the poverty line has marginally increased due to rapid population growth. In some regions, up to half of the population struggles to meet the cost of essential food and shelter and other basic necessities like clothing, health care and education. Nearly 43% of the population lives in extreme poverty.

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The Guardian – Company donates sports equipment to Don Bosco Oysterbay basketball teams

Salesian Missions – Tanzania

UNICEF – Tanzania

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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Close to 1,700 youth at Salesian schools in Uganda have better nutrition 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. Four Salesian schools received a donation in the first half of 2024.

More than 600 youth at Don Bosco Children and Life Mission (Don Bosco CALM) benefited from the nutritious meals, as well as nearly 700 students at the Don Bosco School Bombo and 380 students at the Salesian vocational schools in Bombo and Kamuli.

In Uganda, like the rest of East Africa, food prices have increased, which has in turn impacted feeding programs at Salesian schools. These economic challenges are a result of climate change that affected the agriculture sector, doubling the cost of basic food staples like maize, rice and beans.

A Salesian noted, “We struggle to access basic foodstuffs like we used to. The price of food keeps increasing. The deployment of armed forces, due to the upcoming election, in the towns also makes people have doubts about what will happen tomorrow and scares off some of the farmers from participating in the local markets because they have no guarantee that their efforts will not be wiped out by violence.”

The Salesian added, “The Rise Against Hunger donation helped us to manage the crises that had impacted the schools. We did not have to struggle to provide meals for our students, who have been able to continue with their academic activities.”

One of the students is Kalema Ronald, age 14, who is in grade seven at Don Bosco Nursery and Primary School. He lives with his mother who works as a vendor in the market, and he came to Don Bosco CALM after his mother reached out for support for his education. He explained, “Before the Rise Against Hunger meals at Don Bosco CALM, my friends and I struggled to have a balanced diet because we were only eating posho and beans for lunch and supper.”

Salesians report that the meals have helped the students have the energy, confidence, and strength they need to focus on their studies and excel in school. Ronald wants to go into business after he’s done with school. “I thank the donors and providers of the Rise Against Hunger meals for their support of children in need.”

Don Bosco CALM rescues, rehabilitates and reintegrates children who are living on the street back into society. Along with meeting basic needs, Salesians provide education, socio-cultural activities and recreation to help youth have a bright future.

Salesians work primarily with boys who are homeless and those who have been orphaned, battered, and neglected. They also provide support for other vulnerable youth and children, including those who are HIV/AIDS positive. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco CALM

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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BURUNDI

(MissionNewswire) More than 1,600 students attending Don Bosco high schools in Ngozi and Buterere, Burundi*, had access to better nutrition during the first half of 2024 as a result of 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.

One of the recipient schools, Don Bosco Buterere, provides a youth center, a technical and vocational training center, a secondary school, a parish, and a shrine. More than 600 youth attend programs at the oratory each day. Salesians offer sports, games and cultural programs. The school has roughly 700 students and the parish is one of the most popular in the area.

After youth received the meals, Salesians noticed a positive change. A Salesian said, “We have witnessed the large number of youth attending organized programs with interest and commitment. We are pleased to see the enthusiasm in the community for these activities and hope to encourage continued involvement from the children and their families.”

Gad Lamec Mbonyumugenzi, age 13, was one of the recipients. He has been at the Don Bosco school for one year. Mbonyumugenzi boards at the school, and he has developed friendships with his classmates and housemates. Before coming to Don Bosco Buterere, he was living with his father. When his dad was away working, he stayed with his grandmother, which caused some instability in his life. Mbonyumugenzi is glad to now have stability at Don Bosco Buterere and to be living with the same people throughout the school year.

A Salesian said, “As with many young men his age, he enjoys three meals a day, playing soccer and other games. When they don’t eat the Rise Against Hunger meals, they eat cassava bread or cassava maize. When he considers his life at home and the life at Don Bosco, he will always say, ‘I feel at home here.’”

Burundi has seen more than a decade of violence and conflict, contributing to widespread, poverty according to UNICEF. Children are some of the most severely affected by the country’s rampant poverty. Fifty-three percent of children under the age of 5 suffer from growth stunting caused by inadequate food, low-quality diet, poor infant feeding practices, poor household management of childhood diseases and the general decline of the country’s health system.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Burundi

UNICEF – Burundi

*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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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Salesians in Korr, a city in the Chalbi desert in Kenya, are building two wells thanks to donor funding from the Salesian Mission Office in Turin, Italy. The project involves the installation of solar pumps, pipes and a 20,000-liter tank. The water wells will improve the quality of life and health of over 800 families. One of the wells has been completed.

A Salesian said, “Imagine a girl who can finally attend school regularly because she no longer has to spend hours looking for water. Together we can make a difference, transforming their daily struggle for water into a story of change and hope. Let’s build together a future in which water access is no longer a privilege, but a right guaranteed for everyone.”

The ongoing drought and poverty, along with and the lack of running water, makes life difficult for the Samburu and Rendille tribes who live in this region. Every day is a quest to find water. People travel up to 15 km to reach the nearest water point, which takes time away from education, work and family life. Women and children bear the greatest burden of this effort. The surface and underground wells, often distant and not always safe, are also used for subsistence farming activities.

Salesians have always been committed to fighting the drought. In 2018, a well was dug in one of the villages, but the water over time proved too saline to be used. Now two new wells will bring better quality water.

The mission in Korr was started in 1972 by Father Redento Tignonsini, who realized digging wells was essential for survival. He built a dispensary to treat the people who were sick and a shop to sell essential products for the population. In 1981, Salesians took over, transforming the area into a beacon of hope for the local community. The Salesian mission provides education, health care and food support to communities in one of Kenya’s most isolated and needy regions.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Kenya – A well in the desert, where the earth is burned by the sun and drought is constant

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Salesian Secondary School in Maridi, South Sudan*, has launched a tree planting campaign entitled “One student, one tree.” The school prepared seedlings of various kinds of trees and each student planted one. They will care for their tree during the time they are students at the school.

Through this project, the Don Bosco Salesian Secondary School administration intends to spread hope among youth and make South Sudan greener for future generations.

Father Michael Kalathipullatt, rector, and Father Charles Taban, principal, launched the effort at the school during the monsoon season, which is the favorable time to plant trees. Other schools and people in nearby villages have been inspired by the Salesian students’ actions and have started planting projects of their own.

During the tree planting, Fr. Kalathipullatt told the students, “He who plants a tree, plants hope. And our closeness to nature is really closeness to the divine, because God speaks through nature.”

Salesian missionaries in South Sudan are dedicated to providing programs and services across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan in 2011 but has faced an ongoing civil war that started in December 2013 and continues today. This has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis. According to the United States Institute of Peace, more than 10 million people have been forced from their homes. The war has also triggered the world’s worst hunger crisis with more than 18 million Sudanese living in acute food insecurity.

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

ANS – South Sudan – Don Bosco Salesian secondary school in Maridi launches tree planting campaign

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

*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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BURUNDI

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Ngozi High School in Burundi* is working to complete a sanitation project thanks to funding from the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.” Salesian Missions is the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The school has 1,248 students but has not been able to keep up with modernizing and increasing the number of toilets, even though the number of students has increased each year.

The “Clean Hygienic Facilities for a Big Smile” project will install water facilities, wastewater channels, and other necessary amenities to ensure that the facilities are clean, safe, and hygienic. Work is half-way completed as of the end of July 2024.

A Salesian explained, “Before this project started, the toilet facilities were in a state of disrepair. The new upgrades made possible through this funding will play a crucial role in ensuring the health and safety of the youth who utilize them. Clean and hygienic facilities are essential for preventing the spread of diseases and promoting good hygiene practices. By providing these facilities, we are not only improving the physical well-being of the youth but also their overall quality of life.”

The Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative” makes building wells and supplying fresh, clean water a top priority for every community in every country in which Salesian missionaries work.

Burundi has seen more than a decade of violence and conflict which has contributed to widespread poverty, according to UNICEF. Children are some of the most severely affected by the country’s rampant poverty. Fifty-three percent of children under the age of 5 suffer from growth stunting caused by inadequate food, low-quality diet, poor infant feeding practices, poor household management of childhood diseases and the general decline of the country’s health system.

To learn more about the Salesian Missions Clean Water Initiative, go to SalesianMissions.org/water.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Burundi

UNICEF – Burundi

*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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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian “Empowering Young People through Sports and Spiritual Activities at Don Bosco Muhazi Recreation Center” project in Rwanda has made significant progress in achieving its goals thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

With the funding, the existing infrastructure at Don Bosco Muhazi Recreation Center is undergoing renovation. The basketball and volleyball courts are near completion. Sporting and musical equipment has also been purchased. Through these efforts, youth will be able to access new initiatives at weekend programs.

In addition, Salesians aim to promote awareness on poverty reduction and sustainable development while supporting youth in preparing for their futures. Salesians will provide training on agriculture and farming activities to equip youth with skills to reduce poverty in their communities. Education on values and youth programs are also being organized in a safe environment to promote personal growth and development.

A Salesian explained, “The impact of the project on the community surrounding Don Bosco Muhazi Recreation Center will be significant. We expect that more youth will engage in agriculture and farming activities. We will also be able to serve more young people during the weekend program, as they participate in various activities such as games and training.”

The project is not yet complete but Salesians are confident they are on track. The Salesian noted, “Moving forward, we plan to continue implementing the project and further expand its reach to empower even more young people in the community. We want them to have a bright future and these new activities are a step in the right direction.”

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Poor youth are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.

Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Students and staff at Don Bosco Boys Town Technical Institute in Nairobi, Kenya, completed the fabrication of waste bins for waste management and environmental sustainability. The community is working toward achieving a green campus, community and culture.

The project was completed with the support of Don Bosco Tech Africa and coordination by the Salesian Province of Eastern Africa through the Don Bosco Development Outreach Network. The collaboration between these organizations highlights the importance of working together toward a cleaner and greener future.

A Salesian noted, “Through hands-on experience and practical training, the institute has not only contributed to waste management efforts but has also provided valuable learning opportunities for the participants. The successful completion of this activity demonstrates the positive impact that vocational education can have on both individuals and the community. By actively engaging in such projects, Don Bosco Boys Town Technical Institute is also setting an example for other institutions to follow in promoting environmental consciousness and responsibility.”

Don Bosco Boys Town provides education and technical skills training to former street children. Students who complete their primary education are then assisted with secondary education or are advised to choose technical training in sister institutions. Secondary education is most often provided at Don Bosco Technical Secondary School in the town of Embu, northeast of Nairobi. The two-year technical training provides youth with a wide variety of skills to choose from. After graduation, more than 80% of graduates are employed in their fields of study.

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Waste Management at Don Bosco Boys Town Technical Institute

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco School of Technical and Vocational Education in Muhazi, Rwanda, has held its first graduation ceremony for an agriculture course focused on women’s education. The graduating class was made up of 21 young mothers, all of whom came from vulnerable situations.

During the six-month course, the young women learned to produce soap and tofu to sell as a source of income. They also had the opportunity to participate in an internship and connect with mentors from various companies and cooperatives. Upon completing the class, each woman received a toolkit to help them begin their employment.

One of the objectives of this course was to promote gender equality and eradicate poverty among the young mothers. Another one of its primary objectives was to enable women to diversify their professional skills, thus ensuring they had more than one activity to depend on for income, if necessary.

“I want to thank all our benefactors because it is thanks to their help that I have been able to acquire skills,” said Rachel, one of the course participants. “Now, I am ready to put into practice what I have learned, wherever it is in Rwanda. Thanks to the pay I will receive, I will be able to support my child and my brothers and sisters who depend on me.”

Another participant, Florence, was likewise grateful for the class. She shared, “Because I’m poor, I used to ask people to rent me their fields, but I always ended up giving up because of the lack of proper skills. Now I am very happy with this experience because for the first time, I feel sure of what I can do thanks to what I have learned.”

The graduation ceremony was attended by Father Raymond Bavumiragiye, who delivered the commencement speech. During his speech, Fr. Bavumiragiye asked the graduates to use the skills they had acquired to protect themselves from those who might want to take advantage of them. He also encouraged them to continue pursuing their education and improving their well-being. Now that the inaugural cohort has graduated, a second class is already underway.

Salesian missionaries offer a range of educational and social development programs to people living in Rwanda. Through these programs, youth experiencing poverty have access to health, nutrition, education and general support services that promote their well-being and help them lead productive lives.

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country, and about 35% of its population is engaged in subsistence agriculture, some of which includes mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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

ANS – Rwanda – Successful conclusion of the first agricultural course at the Don Bosco school in Muhazi for young mothers

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Students from primary and secondary classes at Don Bosco Tonj in South Sudan* have been working on the school farm to ensure that there is enough food to eat during the ongoing civil war and serious economic crisis impacting the country. People in the South Sudan are facing a 300% cost increase for basic necessities, and it has become very difficult for people to eat at least two meals a day.

During the rainy season, students grew various products for school meals. Before the early morning school assembly and after class, students devote time to sowing and caring for the land to get a better harvest.

Similarly, young parishioners, with the help of the justice and peace desk at the Catholic diocese of Rumbek, have also ventured into agriculture, in addition to their work and study commitments. Youth have shown great resilience with the agricultural initiatives.

A Salesian noted, “Work on the school farm is not an obstacle to regular attendance in classes. Students have been as dedicated to their studies as they have been in working on the farm. The food grown helps to provide for their meals and support their growth. Hungry students have trouble learning and we have created a farm that allows them to ensure good nutrition while also learning new skills.”

South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan in 2011 but has faced an ongoing civil war that started in December 2013 and continues today. This has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis. According to the United States Institute of Peace, more than 10 million people have been forced from their homes. The war has also triggered the world’s worst hunger crisis with more than 18 million Sudanese living in acute food insecurity.

Responding to the civil strife is nothing new to Salesian missionaries in South Sudan, who are dedicated to the programs and services they are providing across the country. Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs, and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

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

ANS – South Sudan – Don Bosco Tonj school pupils cultivate the land to deal with the country’s economic instability

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

United States Institute of Peace – Four Priorities for Sudan a Year into the Civil War

*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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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Muhazi is relaunching its musical training for students as part of its work with vulnerable youth in Rwanda. Salesians began their work in Muhazi starting with teaching reading and writing. Later, they opened short vocational training courses focused on helping poor and disenfranchised youth gain the skills for employment.

A Salesian noted, “The direct result of poverty and other family problems is associated with a range of emotional and behavioral problems in adolescence and adulthood. Salesians have joined other professional training programs to protect against all forms of violence and trauma rehabilitation through meetings on gender issues and modern and traditional music clubs.”

The Salesian added, “Music has a strong power to bring people together and to create good relationships and a positive sense of belonging. It can act very preventively on conflicts and clashes. Don Bosco was already aware of this and in his first oratory in Valdocco he had established a musical band.”

Salesians are working to establish a music workshop, but to do this they need musical instruments including a bass, two electric guitars, a pianola and modest electrical gear such as an amplifier, two microphones and two monitors. This music workshop will continue to evolve as Salesians are able to access the musical equipment they need.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Poor youth are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Rwanda – Don Bosco centre in Muhazi relaunches musical training

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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Don Bosco Technical Institute in kenya.

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical Institute, located in Embu, Kenya, provides youth from poor and disadvantaged backgrounds a chance at an education. The institute hosts Don Bosco Embu Farm, which was set up by the late Brother Umberto Rizzetto, who worked at the school since its founding in 1984. From then until his death in 2017, he worked to make Don Bosco Embu self-sufficient regarding food.

Today, with the help of several donors, the farm has the needed equipment and tools to use in both the agriculture and animal departments. Vegetables like cabbages, tomatoes, spinach and Sukuma wiki are grown for consumption and for sale. There is also animal husbandry at the farm with cows, pigs, rabbits and layer chickens. The farm has a herd of 20 cows.

A Salesian said, “The farm takes pride in providing high-quality vegetables to meet the needs of the local community and beyond. With a commitment to sustainable farming practices and a dedication to delivering fresh, healthy produce, the Bro. Umberto Memorial Farm continues to contribute to the local food market while promoting healthy eating habits.”

Poultry farming thrives thanks to a generous donation of 1,500 laying chickens through The Sterling Trust, which has significantly elevated production levels and turned it into a highly profitable venture.

The Salesian added, “By exposing them to advanced agricultural practices from Israel, the Bro. Umberto Farm empowers young individuals to embrace modern farming methods, boosting productivity and sustainability. This invaluable experience not only equips them with marketable skills but also nurtures a spirit of entrepreneurship and a passion for agricultural development.”

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Embu

Don Bosco Embu

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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TANZANIA.

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Province of Tanzania organized the first edition of Salesian Sports, with the theme of “The Dream that Makes You Dream.” The event brought together more than 300 youth and 32 leaders from all over the country to the Don Bosco Dodoma campus. Also present at the event were Father Michael Muia, provincial delegate for youth ministry, and Father Valerain Kway, delegate for the Salesian Family in the province.

A Salesian said, “The competition brought together boys and girls who have been involved in different disciplines, such as basketball, soccer, volleyball and netball. For many, it was an opportunity to meet and to test themselves. At the end of the day, after the tournaments and a moment of prayer, the winning teams were rewarded.”

Salesians believe in the importance of sports in education. The Salesian noted, “Sports and education complement each other, and youth learn study habits, hygiene and healthy eating, as well as the values of companionship and solidarity. Youth experience a positive transformation that translates into the development of discipline, punctuality and responsibility.”

In Tanzania, 67.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. While the country has seen some economic growth in tourism, mining, trade and communication, the number of Tanzanians living below the poverty line has marginally increased due to rapid population growth. In some regions, up to half of the population struggles to meet the cost of essential food and shelter and other basic necessities like clothing, health care and education. Nearly 43% of the population lives in extreme poverty.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Tanzania – Salesian sport is an experience “that makes you dream”

Salesian Missions – Tanzania

UNICEF – Tanzania

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ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) A water-well project in the Gambella region of Ethiopia* is supported by Salesians and the nonprofit organization Cuore Amico. Father Filippo Perin, a Salesian missionary, facilitates the project to open as many wells as possible to ensure the population’s survival, according to a recent article in Vatican News.

According to the article, 100 wells have been built in Gambella with the support of the Catholic Church, the Cuore Amico Fraternità Foundation, and many private individuals. There are plans for more.

Gambella is home to many different ethnic groups as well as South Sudanese refugees living in eight refugee camps. The life expectancy in the region is below age 50, and the area is faced with drought and famine. People clash, sometimes to the death, over a jug of drinking water, according to the Vatican News article.

Fr. Perin told Vatican News, “Only 14% of the population has access to drinking water, so it is not uncommon for bloody clashes to break out between villages over water. That is why one of the first things we felt was most urgent was to raise funds to dig wells. The costs, however, are high. Just to bring the excavating machine to this impervious and isolated area requires 3,000 euros, and the cost for the digging work is also expensive, but it saves people’s lives.”

Fr. Perin explained to Vatican News why the project is so important to him. “There is a lack of food; people have only one meal a day. There are no hospitals, and the local clinics only distribute two medicines: paracetamol and amoxicillin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic for various types of infections. Nothing else. Young people and children fall ill and die from diseases that are curable in other parts of the world. There are no schools; education is not even a priority for governments, so it is often entrusted to the church or NGOs that perform this important task as best they can. The children don’t have books or notebooks to write in but they have a great desire to learn. Not to mention the climatic situation: from December to June the temperatures are over 40-45 degrees and there is no rain, so agriculture suffers a lot.”

During his 16 years in Gambella, Fr. Perin has opened new parishes and raised money for 30 wells. He also found a company that provides the equipment to dig during the dry months. Otherwise, in the rainy season everything is too flooded and the roads are impassable. The technicians do an inspection to find the perfect place for the well and then dig. They also build a cement base with a pump to bring the water up.

The Vatican News article explained, “When the first water comes out, the whole village erupts in celebration. Women arrive to fill their jerrycans, some drink, some shower, some play with the water like crazy, some dance with joy! They all stand around the well for hours and realize what a great gift they have received!”

Supplies are limited and there is always the risk that the water will run out. Fr. Perin noted, “It is important to ensure that the well is well maintained. The inhabitants are instructed on the correct use of the crank handle but it often breaks and then we have to call the company again to try to repair it but this involves other expenses, more money.”

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world with more than 38% of its population living in poverty, according to Feed the Future. Close to 85% of the country’s workforce is employed in agriculture, but frequent droughts severely affect the agricultural economy leaving more than 12 million people chronically, or at least periodically, food insecure. In addition, more than two-thirds of the population is illiterate.

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Salesian Missions – Ethiopia

UNICEF – Ethiopia

Vatican News – Ethiopia and its life-giving water wells

*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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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Hospitality Center, located in Kigali, Rwanda, will train professionals in the hospitality industry while also generating income for Salesian programs in the country. The center has 35 rooms as well as a restaurant and multi-functional hall that will hold up to 600 people.

“We are committed to training the next generation of leaders and innovators in the hospitality industry,” remarked Father Pierre Celestin Ngoboka, provincial superior of the Africa of the Great Lakes Salesian Province, at the opening ceremony on April 26. “Through the training programs at the Don Bosco Hospitality Center, we aim to empower our students with the skills, knowledge and experiences necessary to succeed in this dynamic field.”

The center is offering classroom learning coupled with hands-on preparation through the center’s hospitality services that are open to the public. Fr. Ngoboka explained, “Apart from training, the center is well-positioned to offer quality and advanced hospitality services to all persons who are willing to use the facility. As Rwanda continues to emerge as a hub for tourism and hospitality, the establishment of Don Bosco Hospitality Center represents a significant stride toward meeting the growing demand for skilled talent in the industry.”

The German ambassador to Rwanda, Ambassador Heike Uta Dettmann, praised the center during a speech at the grand opening ceremony and emphasized the importance of vocational training and the service industry in Rwanda’s development. She highlighted the significance of providing hands-on training for youth who may not have had the opportunity to travel or gain practical experience in the hospitality sector.

Dettmann stated, “I’m very happy that the German government is cooperating in financial support with the education system in Rwanda, and this specific jewel of teenage education aligns with the needs of the country and its young population.”

She expressed her belief that investing in youth education is essential for the future of Rwanda, as youth are the driving force behind the country’s development. Dettmann wished the center success and hoped all students would find meaningful employment opportunities upon completing their training.

The construction of the new center was environmentally friendly and was supported by the Salesian Congregation through the Office of the Rector Major, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development-BMZ through Don Bosco Mondo, the Africa of the Great Lakes Salesian Province, and the Procures of Turin and Madrid, among others. To develop the business plan for the center, Salesians partnered with Horwath HTL Interconsult, an international hotel and tourism consultancy in Rwanda.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Poor youth are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Rwanda – German Ambassador Applauds Opening of Don Bosco Hospitality Centre in Kigali

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Boys Town, located in Nairobi, Kenya, has launched the International Trade Center-Ethical Fashion Initiative, which is a green fashion project funded by the Italian government. The project will utilize micro-manufacturers to enhance Kenya’s potential as a fashion production center. The Salesian Training Center, part of Don Bosco Boys Town, will serve as a design center for the production of products.

The launch of the project featured an event with several Salesians and industry leaders from the fashion world and government agencies. Stakeholders involved in the project highlighted the importance of collaboration among the government, Salesians and other development partners in order to empower and enable job creation and sustainability for youth.

A Salesian missionary explained, “Don Bosco Boys Town has launched similar initiatives all with the goal of helping youth gain the skills for later employment in industries that are hiring and need skilled labor. A couple of years ago it was a plumbing partnership program and now it’s fashion. Salesians remain at the forefront of technical training in Kenya and around the globe.”

Don Bosco Boys Town provides education and technical skills training to former street children. Students who complete their primary education are then assisted with secondary education or are advised to choose technical training in sister institutions. The secondary education is most often provided at Don Bosco Technical Secondary School in the town of Embu, northeast of Nairobi.

The two-year technical training provides youth with a wide variety of skills to choose from, including tailoring, car engineering/mechanics, carpentry, electrical work, and welding, as well as secretarial skills and a full spectrum of computer-related job skills. After graduation, more than 80% of graduates are employed in their fields of study. Many students go on to attend university or establish their own businesses and become entrepreneurs in Nairobi.

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Kenya – An initiative for ethical fashion at the Don Bosco Boys Town in Nairobi

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Vocational Training Center, located in Wau, South Sudan*, graduated 370 students who are going on to find gainful employment. The school launched in 1995 and has provided education to thousands of youth from all over South Sudan. The center empowers youth to realize their dreams in the employment sector of their choice.

The center offers quality non-formal education in information technology, welding, car repair and maintenance, electricity, carpentry, masonry, printing, plumbing, catering, bakery and tailoring skills.

A Salesian said, “The education youth gain here at the Don Bosco Vocational Training Center is truly life-changing. Youth are able to hone their skills through practical and hands-on education in employment sectors that are hiring. This positions Salesian students to make an easier transition from school to the workforce.”

South Sudan gained its independence from Sudan in 2011 but has faced an ongoing civil war that started in December 2013 and has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis. Responding to the civil strife is nothing new to Salesian missionaries in South Sudan, who are dedicated to the programs and services they are providing across the country.

Salesian missionaries provide education, social development services, nutrition programs and health clinics for poor youth and their families. For some, the education offered at Salesian schools is the only opportunity to gain an education and the skills necessary for future employment.

South Sudan is expansive and largely rural with 83% of the population residing in rural areas. Poverty is endemic with at least 80% of the population defined as income-poor and living on the equivalent of less than $1 per day, according to the World Bank. More than one-third of the population lacks secure access to food.

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

ANS – South Sudan – More than 370 graduates from the Don Bosco Vocational Training Centre Wau

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

World Bank – South Sudan

*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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ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Mission Office in Madrid has launched a project for the reconstruction and support for the return of people displaced by the conflict, especially women and girls, in the Tigray region of Ethiopia*.

The project aims to help hundreds of people return to villages and cities. The Tigray area has been plagued by war and many areas are still occupied by the military. Even the areas currently free of conflict have been left with serious damage. Since the signing of a peace agreement in November 2022, the situation is slowly returning to normal, but it has left around a million people displaced and thousands of refugees in Sudan.

“In most cases, the territories are still not free,” explained a Salesian working in the area. “But wherever possible, we want people to return to a normal life in their villages. The challenge is that many people who want to return to their homes are now faced with them destroyed, their agricultural land abandoned and all their assets lost. We are working to help people return to a normal life in their villages as soon as possible when it’s safe to do so.”

The project is helping families who want to and can return to their homes, have access to hygiene, health, protection and well-being. “We will rehabilitate homes and provide them with basic necessities for home and hygiene,” explained Raquel Fuente, coordinator of International Cooperation at the Salesian Mission Office.

One of the bigger challenges is to ensure the availability of food by improving the health and food security of families. The Ethiopian government and local authorities have declared a famine emergency in the Tigray region. This makes the fight for food security a priority. The project will help families with agricultural and livestock activities. The aim is to recover agricultural land and support people with the necessary training, seeds and tools.

Fuente added, “We will also work on the healing of traumas after the horrors of two years of open conflict and the losses suffered. This will increase individual resilience, but also social cohesion. Working for a culture of peace and reconciliation will be fundamental for the success of the restarting of the population and for the development of the region.”

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world with more than 38% of its population living in poverty, according to Feed the Future. Close to 85% of the country’s workforce is employed in agriculture, but frequent droughts severely affect the agricultural economy leaving more than 12 million people chronically, or at least periodically, food insecure. In addition, more than two-thirds of the population is illiterate.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Ethiopia – Overcoming the war and rebuilding the Tigray region

Salesian Missions – Ethiopia

UNICEF – Ethiopia

UNHCR – Ethiopia

*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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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Salesians in Kenya held a mobile journalism training for Salesian staff to help them empower youth tell their stories. The training gave participants, who were from Kenya, South Sudan and Tanzania, the skills to produce high-quality content using mobile devices.

The training is particularly relevant as mobile communication is growing in Africa. In 2022, there were 415 million smartphone subscriptions in Sub-Saharan Africa. Based on the steady growth seen in earlier years, this number is expected to reach 689 million by 2028.

During the three-day seminar, the participants learned how to effectively use a smartphone for journalism purposes. Using the phone’s camera, they learned how to utilize different angles and movements for shooting, lighting, microphones, interview skills, and more.

A Salesian noted, “The participants were trained to shoot and edit photos and videos and use social media for publishing and distribution. The workshop also stressed real-time reporting, teamwork and ethical considerations involved in this type of journalism. The training also covered various aspects of mobile journalism, including reporting, visual storytelling, and utilizing mobile platforms to disseminate news and other content. The training gave the participants a lot of hands-on experience.”

At the end of the training, the participants felt they had gained sufficient knowledge to embark on a mission to tell African stories to the world. The Salesian explained, “This training reflects the growing trend in Africa, where mobile journalism and content creation are gaining popularity. Smartphones are expected to continue evolving, with journalists and content creators adapting to new technologies and storytelling to meet the demands of modern news consumption.”

Salesians are grateful for the support of Father Gildasio Mendes, the general counsellor for social communication, who enabled Father Maciej Makula and Aleksandra Stankiewicz from the Social Communication Department to facilitate the training.

One participant said, “We acknowledge with gratitude Fr. Makula’s and Stankiewicz’s hard work in training the communication delegates. We also thank the provincial, who sponsored and encouraged this training.”

Salesians in Kenya provide a range of social development and educational programs including primary and secondary schools as well as vocational and technical education to help poor youth gain self-sufficiency and hope for the future.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Kenya – Mobile Journalism (MoJo) training for the Social Communication Delegates of the province of East Africa (AFE)

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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(MissionNewswire) With education from the Don Bosco Boys Training Institute in Nairobi, Kenya, Lucy Muchemi has become an accomplished plumber. An article in The Standard highlights her work in a male-dominated field and her educational path to get there.

The Standard noted, “Her trajectory from an office assistant to a successful entrepreneur who has established a thriving plumbing business underscores the transformative influence of vocational education, mentorship and unwavering perseverance.”

According to the article, Muchemi initially wanted to be a civil engineer. In 2001, she enrolled at Kiambu Institute of Science and Technology but underestimated the course. “I never fully understood what the course was all about,” Muchemi told The Standard. “I was the only woman in a class of about 20 students. Of course, I struggled and failed in several assessment tests.”

She then started her plumbing training at the Don Bosco Boys Training Institute with coursework as well as hands-on training. Muchemi was so interested in the subject that she read more and more away from classes and spoke to people in the field. She received her diploma in 2003.

At the Don Bosco Boys Training Institute, students undergo training as well as mentorship. Apprentices are certified as professionals in the trade by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA). There are currently two class groups enrolled in the two-year program with one scheduled to graduate in November 2024.

After working for a few companies and trying to open her own business, Muchemi succeeded in opening Mavens Plumbers in 2017 while still under employment at another firm. In the article, Muchemi explained, “I was so good at plumbing that the employer was hesitant to let me go, even offering me some space in the firm to set up my private business.” She balanced the two until 2020 when she chose to work with her business full-time.

In addition, Muchemi is a mentor to empower individuals to excel in trades such as plumbing and electrical work, according to the article. In this role, Muchemi ensures that the plumbing curriculum in the country’s vocational schools aligns with current industry demands.

Being a woman in the field has not been easy. Muchemi is met by men who do not want to work with her and others who think plumbing is an odd profession for a woman.

In the article, Muchemi said, “I have done ground and home piping. I have installed facilities on the walls. I have fixed toilets. I can hold my own in meetings with experts in the construction industry. Unfortunately, some still hold me in contempt because I am just a plumber and a woman at that. That mindset must change.”

Don Bosco schools help empower women like Muchemi to ensure they have the skills needed for self-sufficiency and long-term employment even in traditionally male-dominated technical fields.

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

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Sources:

The Standard – Lucy Muchemi: What plumbing has taught me about resilience

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

The post KENYA: Woman shares experience as plumber first appeared on MissionNewswire.

UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Nearly 1,700 youth at Salesian schools in Uganda had 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 humanitarian organization growing a global movement to end hunger.

More than 600 youth at Don Bosco Children and Life Mission (Don Bosco CALM) received fortified rice-meals provided by Rise Against Hunger, as well as nearly 700 students at the Don Bosco School Bombo and 380 students at the Salesian vocational schools in Bombo and Kamuli.

Don Bosco CALM rescues, rehabilitates and reintegrates children who are living on the street back into society. Along with meeting basic needs, Salesians provide education, socio-cultural activities, and recreation such as sports programming to help youth have a bright future.

Salesians work primarily with boys who are homeless and those who have been orphaned, battered, and neglected. They also provide support for other vulnerable youth and children, including those who are HIV/AIDS positive. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

One of the recipients of the meals is Edward Kavuma, age 12. He attends primary school at the Don Bosco Nursery and Primary School and lives with his aunt who is a subsistence farmer in a rural community in Wakiso. He previously was not studying because his aunt could not afford the school fees.

He said, “Before this Rise Against Hunger donation, it was a challenge to have a balanced diet as we were only eating posho and beans for lunch and supper because it is what the school administration could afford.”

The Rise Against Hunger meals have increased the well-being of the students because the meals are rich in nutrients. Kavuma and his classmates found the meals delicious, and the meals gave them the confidence and strength to continue with their studies. Kavuma added, “I want to be a doctor in the future and I have confidence that I will.”

The students at the vocational schools have also echoed how important the meals are for their well-being. Alex Mulangira, age 22 and a student at Don Bosco Vocational Training School Bombo, said, “Before the donation, my classmates and I would often go hungry at school because we did not have food for lunch. Some of the students dropped out because of this. With the Rise Against Hunger meals, we all have the strength and confidence to continue studying. This is important because I am studying to become a plumber and know now I will succeed.”

Uganda’s literacy rate has improved with 73% of the population literate, but only 23% of Ugandans go on to acquire a secondary education. Nearly 21% of the population in Uganda lives below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. This number rises to 33% for those living in the northern region where poverty is greatest.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco CALM

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Gatenga Technical Secondary School in Kigali, Rwanda, celebrated International Women’s Day with a special event on March 10. The event featured a presentation urging girls to pursue technical subjects and highlighted the progress made in promoting gender equality at the school and the national level.

During the celebration, students sang, read poems and danced to honor the achievements achieved by women in society. One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of a student who distinguished herself in the last academic year. The recognition served as a symbol of encouragement for other girls to strive for success and break down barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.

The event was part of the “Gender Matters for Green TVET” project, funded by the Austrian Development Cooperation and carried out by Salesians in Rwanda and Uganda. A Salesian noted, “The project aims to promote gender equality in technical and vocational schools and improve the skills of young women, encouraging them to join professions traditionally reserved for young men.”

Don Bosco Gatenga has been at the forefront of gender issues in the region. Since its beginning in 1976, the school has welcomed youth in need. The school helps to prepare youth for the future and teaches them employable skills so that they will be self-sufficient and help support their families and the community.

Don Bosco Gatenga also features a large farm that has 26 hectares of land. Ten of those hectares have already been cultivated for farming. The food grown helps to feed the students in the school. Don Bosco Gatenga has seen more and more children who are undernourished and malnourished coming to the center. The number of students from poor families who want to attend the school has also increased.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Poor youth are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives.

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Rwanda – The Don Bosco Gatenga TSS School commemorates International Women’s Day

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

The post RWANDA: Events honors women’s achievement first appeared on MissionNewswire.

SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Primary School in Tonj, a town in the northwest region of South Sudan*, launched a campaign to clean up the environment during Lent. Students taking part in the “Keep Clean and Grow Green” project are cleaning up the town and planting trees every Friday.

The project was established in response to Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

A Salesian said, “In response to global warming and the growing ecological crisis, the students are learning about care for the environment. The goal is to instill these values in them when they are young so they carry it forward as they get older. The school is committed to teaching about the necessary care and respect for the environment that is needed.”

Salesian missionaries have been working in Tonj for several years. Their focus has been on providing education and social development services for poor youth through the operation of primary and secondary schools and youth centers. In addition, the missionaries operate several medical clinics, including a leprosy clinic. In 2015, Salesian missionaries, in collaboration with the Tonj Project Onlus, opened a new hospital with maternity and surgical wards and a residence for medical and administrative staff.

South Sudan is expansive and largely rural with 83% of the population residing in rural areas. Poverty is endemic with at least 80% of the population defined as income-poor and living on the equivalent of less than $1 per day, according to the World Bank. More than one-third of the population lacks secure access to food.

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Sources:

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

ANS – South Sudan – A “green” initiative for Lent

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

World Bank – South Sudan

*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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BURUNDI

(MissionNewswire) More than 1,600 students attending Don Bosco high schools in Ngozi and Buterere, Burundi*, had access to better nutrition during the second half of 2023 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.

Burundi is one of the poorest countries in the world. Across the country, people are facing high levels of food insecurity due to the political and economic situation, poor agricultural production, and rapid population growth. Fuel shortages also make transportation of goods difficult.

One of the recipient schools, Don Bosco High School in Ngozi, has 1,088 students, including 778 boys and 310 girls. Since its foundation, the school has faced food shortages due to a lack of funding. The available land is not enough to produce a sufficient quantity of food to feed the 650 students in the boarding school.

The fortified rice-meals provided by Rise Against Hunger are making a difference in this shortfall. The students have three meals a day at school. In the morning, they are given porridge and at lunch, they have cassava bread. The Rise Against Hunger meals are given to them at dinner, which the students enjoy.

One of the young students who received the meals is Bwitonzi Gaby Charbel, age 13, who is studying in class eight. When his parents brought him to Don Bosco High School, Charbel struggled with the transition to a boarding school. It was his first time living outside of the family home. Today, Charbel is healthy and plays basketball games with his classmates. He is also active in choir, and he sings and dances during school functions.

During his free time, Charbel helps on the farm, having befriended the chickens and goats. He visits the farm at least once a day. Inspired by the school farm, Charbel started a small farm with three chickens at his home during the holidays.

When asked about his plans, Charbel noted, “I want to become a great farmer, able to provide for the needs of my family and other vulnerable children.” After he struggled in school, Charbel was able to get back on track. The meals have been helping him. When asked what he enjoys most within the school, Charbel said, “In this school, I like three things: Rise Against Hunger meals, the farm and the music.”

Burundi has seen more than a decade of violence and conflict which has contributed to widespread poverty, according to UNICEF. Children are some of the most severely affected by the country’s rampant poverty. Fifty-three percent of children under the age of 5 suffer from growth stunting caused by inadequate food, low-quality diet, poor infant feeding practices, poor household management of childhood diseases and the general decline of the country’s health system.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Burundi

UNICEF – Burundi

*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.

The post BURUNDI: More than 1,600 students receive meals through Salesian Missions and Rise Against Hunger first appeared on MissionNewswire.

UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Students attending Don Bosco Primary School, part of Don Bosco Children and Life Mission (Don Bosco CALM), in Namugongo, northeast of Kampala, Uganda, received new school uniforms, sports uniforms and school supplies thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

The 200 children, ages 5-13, were from families most in need. They could not afford to buy their children new school uniforms or the school supplies to take part in educational activities.

Mbabazi Prosper, age 9, was one of the recipients. He lives with his grandmother who is unable to buy the things he needs for school. Prosper said, “I was not going to school before because my grandmother could not afford the school fees. Now I study at Don Bosco and I’m sure I will succeed in the future. Thanks to the donors we received new uniforms, books and pencils that allow us to participate in school. We are all grateful.”

Many of the students who received the donation drew pictures and wrote notes in thanks for the donation that allows them to fully participate in their education.

Don Bosco CALM rescues, rehabilitates and reintegrates street children back into society. Salesians meet basic needs and provide education, socio-cultural activities, and recreation such as sports programming to help youth have a bright future.

Salesians work primarily with homeless boys and those who have been orphaned, battered, and neglected. They also provide support for other vulnerable youth and children, including those who are HIV/AIDS positive. All of the children are in school with some attending Don Bosco Primary School, Salesian secondary schools and vocational training institutes.

Uganda’s literacy rate has improved with 73% of the population literate, but only 23% of Ugandans go on to acquire a secondary education. Nearly 21% of the population in Uganda lives below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. This number rises to 33% for those living in the northern region where poverty is greatest. While the country has seen some economic growth as well as improvement in its U.N. Human Development Index ranking over the last 20 years, the country still ranked near the bottom at 166 out of 191 countries in 2022.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco CALM

Salesian Missions – Uganda

World Bank – Uganda

The post UGANDA: Students receive new school uniforms, supplies through funding from Salesian Missions first appeared on MissionNewswire.

RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Filippo Smaldone Institute, located in Nyamirambo, a suburb of Kigali, Rwanda, is run by the Salesian Sisters of the Sacred Heart. The institute provides primary and secondary school, as well as vocational courses to prepare students for the workforce. The institute also has special courses for students with vision and hearing disabilities, according to a recent article in Global Sisters Report.

The Salesian Sisters of the Sacred Heart congregation was founded in 1885 by St. Filippo Smaldone, who is known as the apostle of the deaf. According to the article, since 1987, the Salesian sisters have focused their work to assist those in danger of social exclusion, including students who are deaf or hard of hearing.

The institute educates more than 400 students, including 207 children with hearing loss or deafness and more than 200 without a disability. According to the article, Salesian Sister Therese Akayezu, head teacher at the Filippo Smaldone Institute, noted that by attending classes and special programs with dedicated teachers, deaf or hard of hearing children can learn skills to master a profession.

Sr. Akayezu said, “In our teaching methodology, we try to focus on improving self-esteem among children with hearing loss who sometimes develop lower self-esteem than hearing peers.”

Many parents in remote and rural Rwanda do not know that their children with disabilities have a right to study. Children who do attend school drop out earlier because they are unable to learn in classrooms where only 15% of teachers are trained in how to educate those with disabilities, according to the article, which pulled statistics from the Ministry of Education.

Students with disabilities, which include nearly 39,000 learners, need an education in order to gain the skills for later employment. The article noted that one-third of Rwandan students with disabilities in both primary and secondary schools have hearing loss.

“Parents should understand that these hearing-impaired children need to attend school and learn how to use sign language as it creates for them a true learning experience,” Sr. Akayezu said in the article.

Jules Mugirase, a 12-year-old from Mageragere, used to have a self-deprecating mentality due to his severe hearing loss. Things have changed since he enrolled at the institute. Mugirase told the Global Sisters Report, “I made many new friends at school, and thanks to the special support I am getting, this keeps encouraging me to do my best.”

Parents also report a positive change in their children as they learn skills and become engage in their education. Alphonse Munyankindi, whose son is learning baking at the institute, said his child has grown happier since returning to school. In the article, he explained, “My son first developed hearing problems when he was 5 years old, and the situation continued to worsen, and he was no longer able to study at regular schools.”

Adults are also succeeding in finding a career thanks to the institute’s vocational training. The article noted that thanks to the Salesian sisters, Fiona Mukundente, a 23-year-old mother with hearing impairments, has been able to complete the one-year intensive vocational sewing program. After her training, she and her peers at the institute secured a loan from the Saving and Credit Cooperative Society, a microfinance institution, to establish a modern sewing workshop at Kabeza, a suburb of Kigali.

She told Global Sisters Report, “Before joining hands with my peers in running a sewing workshop, I was unemployed and had nothing in terms of assets. After starting this career, I started making money, bought a piece of land and can pay school fees for my siblings.”

Salesian sisters at the Filippo Smaldone Institute are not only improving individual students’ lives but are setting a standard for education for youth with disabilities in the country.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Aimable Twahirwa and Global Sisters Report

Global Sisters Report – Salesian Sisters’ school supports Rwandan children with deafness or hearing loss

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

The post RWANDA: Children with deafness or hearing loss receive education first appeared on MissionNewswire.

SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians Dar Mariam House in Khartoum, Sudan*, was again impacted by the ongoing war in the country. On Jan. 2, a sniper from one of the rebel groups involved in the conflict set fire to the second floor of the house. Rooms and the hall on a side of the floor were badly damaged. With help from neighbors and soldiers, the fire was extinguished in two hours.

“No one was injured. Thank God. May his will and his glory always prevail,” said Father Jacob Thelekkadan, an Indian Salesian missionary who has been living in the Dar Mariam House since shortly after the outbreak of the war.

The Dar Mariam House is home to Salesian sisters, Fr. Thelekkadan, mothers and children, and a group of men, including some who are elderly and sick. This is the second time the house has been impacted by the war. On Nov. 3, 2023, it was hit by a large bomb, which damaged several classrooms and structures. There were only minor injuries given the destruction.

The war between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) started on April 15, 2023. Since then, there has been no public transport, electricity is sporadic and water is becoming scarce.

The most official data available from October 2023 indicated that there about 10,000 dead and almost 12,000 injured. The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees noted that at the end 2023, the conflict had caused almost 7.1 million internally displaced people and more 1.3 million refugees.

Salesian sisters will continue to monitor the situation and do what they can for those most in need.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Sudan – Sniper sparks a fire at the FMA house in Karthoum

Salesian Missions – Sudan

UNHCR Sudan

*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.

The post SUDAN: Salesian sisters’ home damaged in war first appeared on MissionNewswire.

KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical Secondary School (Don Bosco Embu), located in the municipality of Embu, northwest of Nairobi, Kenya, helps supply the workforce with qualified candidates while giving poor youth a chance at an education and a better life. Many of these students lack other opportunities to gain an education.

The school started in January 1986 and has grown to become a large institution within the region. All of the young men who attend the school live on campus full time. Most of the youth at Don Bosco Embu come from Don Bosco Boys Town in Nairobi, which provides a home, school, playground and church for youth, primarily boys, who have been rescued from the streets.

Students are able to take courses in trades including carpentry, masonry, vehicle mechanics, welding, electrical and mechanical engineering, cabinet making, and the most recently launched course in plumbing. The plumbing program is helping youth have access to high-quality training to be relevant in the job market and access an industry that needs a qualified workforce.

“These training programs ensure youth are able to take the skills learned in the classroom and utilize them in real working environments, benefiting both the student and the employer,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “When a student completes his education, he leaves with a certification in his specialty trade. This empowers students to go out into the workforce to put their technical skills to use in their respective fields.”

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Technical Secondary School (Don Bosco Embu)

KENYA: Youth rescued from streets gain education

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

The post KENYA: Students graduate ready for workforce first appeared on MissionNewswire.

RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Muhazi Technical-Vocational School, in the Gasabo district in the Kigali province of Rwanda, is celebrating the arrival of educational materials that will enhance the students’ activities. The materials were financed by the ACTEC project, a development program co-financed by the Belgian Directorate-General for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid.

Father Bavumiragiye Raymond, rector of Don Bosco Muhazi, expressed his gratitude to the ACTEC donors who made this project possible, and he emphasized the importance of the materials for the school.

One of the clubs benefiting from the donation is the environmental club. The materials provided will enable students to continue their important work of protecting the environment. Materials for arts and sports were also included as part of the donation.

A Salesian noted, “With these resources, students can explore their creativity and expand their artistic skills. In addition, the sports club received the necessary equipment that will enable them to improve their training and participate confidently in competitions.”

The donation also aimed to support entrepreneurship among the students. Materials for students in the welding course will enable them to participate in the practical training that will be provided in cooperation with Manumetal Rwandan Metal Factory. The students who have completed the welding course will be able to gain valuable practical experience and further improve their skills.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Poor youth are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives.

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Rwanda – Materials needed for activities donated by the ACTEC project have arrived at the Don Bosco Muhazi CFP

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

The post RWANDA: Students benefit from education materials first appeared on MissionNewswire.

RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesians with Don Bosco Gatenga, located in Kigali, Rwanda, participated in 16 days of social activism to confront gender bias. At the end of this initiative, Salesians held a march to involve the community and highlight the message of the campaign. The march was attended by Don Bosco Gatenga students, residents of the surrounding areas including many women, members of the Young Women’s Christian Association, the local administration and the Rwandan National Police.

After the march, the participants met at Don Bosco Gatenga to listen to speeches focused on the elimination of gender violence. Uzamureba Clementine, who is responsible for promoting gender equality at Don Bosco Gatenga, highlighted one of the school’s projects “Gender Matters for Green TVET”. The project aims to promote gender equality in technical and vocational schools and improve the skills of young women, encouraging them to join professions traditionally reserved for young men.

Don Bosco Gatenga has been at the forefront of gender issues in the region. Since its beginning in 1976, the school has welcomed youth in need. The school helps to prepare youth for the future and teaches them employable skills so that they will be self-sufficient and help support their families and the community.

Don Bosco Gatenga also features a large farm that has 26 hectares of land. Ten of those hectares have already been cultivated for farming. The food grown helps to feed the students in the school. Don Bosco Gatenga has seen more and more children who are undernourished and malnourished coming to the center. The number of students from poor families who want to attend the school to learn employable skills has also increased.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Poor youth are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives.

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Rwanda – A march to say no to gender-based violence

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

The post RWANDA: Salesians confront gender bias first appeared on MissionNewswire.

TANZANIA

(MissionNewswire) Thirty-six students have graduated from Don Bosco Kilimanjaro International Institute for Telecommunications, Electronics and Computers (Don Bosco KIITEC), located in Arusha, Tanzania. The students received their degrees in electrical engineering, industrial automation, electronics and telecommunications, and computer engineering.

A Salesian noted, “One of the most interesting aspects of this school is the strong female representation in sectors that in the past were traditionally dominated by males. The increasing number of graduates reflects a positive change in society and launches a strong message of inclusion.”

Don Bosco KIITEC serves poor youth and young adults. The school sits on a 15-acre campus that offers the most advanced training technologies in the region. Courses include electrical engineering with industrial automation, renewable energy, and computer science, as well as electronics and telecommunications.

The school’s education model is based on a hands-on and student-centered approach to learning with full access to modern equipment simulating real-world experiences. The school is also registered and accredited by the National Council for Technical Education and awards successful graduates with a three-year National Technical Award Level Six diploma.

“Salesians know that access to education lays the foundation for a better future for all youth,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director for Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “In many countries around the globe where poverty is high and access to education is not universal, it is crucial that Salesian missionaries continue to offer technical and vocational training to as many youth as possible to ensure that they have access to long-term stable employment.”

In Tanzania, 67.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. While the country has seen some economic growth in tourism, mining, trade and communication, the number of Tanzanians living below the poverty line has marginally increased due to rapid population growth. In some regions, up to half of the population struggles to meet the cost of essential food and shelter and other basic necessities like clothing, health care and education. Nearly 43% of the population lives in extreme poverty.

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

ANS – Tanzania – Giving strength to the future generation: celebration of the graduation of 36 engineering students

Don Bosco Kilimanjaro International Institute for Telecommunications, Electronics and Computers

Salesian Missions – Tanzania

UNICEF – Tanzania

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SOUTH SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Don Bosco Health Clinic Gumbo, located in Juba, South Sudan*, are appreciative of the support provided by the Ordesa Foundation, an organization in Spain. With the foundation’s support, the Don Bosco Health Clinic will have improved equipment and supplies available for diagnosis and treatment to enable doctors to better care for those people who have been displaced by violence in the country.

Since 2002, the Ordesa Foundation has been committed to the improvement of the living conditions and the nutrition and health of children — especially newborns, infants and children in the first years of life.

In South Sudan, many of the health centers are not functioning and people may live miles away from a health care center, making access to care difficult.

The clinic was founded in 2012 to treat internally displaced people, especially children suffering from malnutrition. In addition, Salesians offer mobile clinics in surrounding areas. With the support they received from the Ordesa Foundation, Salesians will be able to aid more than 87,500 women, 12,000 children under the age of 14 and almost 6,000 others.

“This collaboration will last two years and will improve the quality of life for thousands of people in a country that has been suffering the consequences of violence since 2013. For this, we thank the Ordesa Foundation,” said Father Luis Manuel Moral, head of the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid, who accepted the grant during a ceremony at the Royal Academy of Pharmacy of Catalonia in Barcelona.

Salesians have been working in Juba since 2006 and operate the health clinic, a primary and secondary school, a vocational training center, a center for the empowerment of women, and a camp for internally displaced people.

South Sudan is expansive and largely rural with 83% of the population residing in rural areas. Poverty is endemic with at least 80% of the population defined as income-poor and living on the equivalent of less than $1 per day, according to the World Bank. More than one-third of the population lacks secure access to food.

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

ANS – South Sudan – The Don Bosco health clinic in Gumbo receives the support of the Ordesa Foundation

Salesian Missions – South Sudan

World Bank – South Sudan

*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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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Job Service Office in Rwanda embarked on a month-long media campaign to raise awareness about the importance of technical and vocational education while also enhancing the visibility of Salesian technical and vocational schools across the country. Don Bosco Tech Africa provided the funding for this campaign.

The campaign utilized popular local news websites, social media, community radio and the National Broadcasting Agency. The segments highlighted success stories of graduates who had pursued technical and vocational education at Salesian schools. These graduates went on to create their own successful businesses or secured employment in reputable companies. They inspired and motivated current students, as well as highlighted the practical and tangible outcomes of this kind of education.

The media campaign’s reach was extensive, targeting the entire population of Rwanda, which has more than 13 million people, a majority of whom are young individuals. The impact was evident from the positive feedback received.

Twizeyimana Emmanuel, the national job service officer at the Salesian Planning and Development Office, said, “As a result of this successful media campaign, Salesian schools will undoubtedly experience an increase in enrollment as more young individuals recognize the value and potential of technical and vocational education. By highlighting the positive outcomes, the media campaign effectively shifted perceptions and created a wave of enthusiasm among young people.”

After the media campaign, an exhibition is bringing together all three Salesian technical and vocational schools in Rwanda. Additionally, there will be a roundtable conference to share best practices, workshops and other related activities.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Poor youth are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy and productive lives.

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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

ANS – Rwanda – Empowering Rwanda’s Youth through TVET Education: A Successful Media Campaign

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

The post RWANDA: Campaign highlights benefits of technical education first appeared on MissionNewswire.

KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Tech Africa has been implementing the Green TVET (technical and vocational education) project in collaboration with the local Salesian planning and development office. As part of this project, tree nurseries have been developed in the five implementing countries of Angola, Burundi, Kenya, Madagascar and Nigeria.

Through these efforts, Don Bosco Technical Secondary School Embu (Don Bosco Embu) in Kenya is working toward a green campus, community and culture. Efforts include knowledge sharing and incorporating the importance of environmental conservation and management in youth programs and community wide.

Don Bosco Embu is taking advantage of the ongoing rains to carry out a massive afforestation initiative at the institution and the surrounding area with seedlings supplied by a tree nursery. This initiative is a crucial step toward greening and preserving the environment while promoting sustainability. Some of the trees will provide fruit to be consumed by the community. The presence of the fruits will also attract different biodiversity that in the long run may lead to a self-sustaining ecosystem.

A Salesian said, “The collaboration between Don Bosco Tech Africa, the Salesian planning and development office, and the local community in Don Bosco Embu showcases the importance of partnerships in achieving long-term environmental goals.”

Don Bosco Tech Africa is the coordinating body for the Don Bosco technical and vocational schools in the Africa region. The organization coordinates approximately 110 centers spread over 34 countries. Salesians aim to empower centers to deliver demand-driven and quality training to the marginalized and at-risk youth who gain employable skills through the centers. Don Bosco Tech Africa has trained Salesian technical and vocation center management and staff as part of the Trainers-of-Trainers program.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Africa

Don Bosco Tech Africa – Tree Planting Exercise in Don Bosco Embu

Don Bosco Tech Africa

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Kuajok, South Sudan*, have opened their doors to welcome refugees from the ongoing war in Sudan*. The war started on April 15 in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, and since that time people have been fleeing the country in search of safety. While estimates vary, an ACN article noted that according to U.N. special envoy for Sudan Volker Perthes, at least 5,000 people have been killed, and over 12,000 wounded since the conflict started.

Salesians in South Sudan have been responding to refugee needs and providing primary school to children. Salesians have been in Kuajok since 2018, taking care of street children and running a primary school.

While refugees have fled, Salesian missionaries and sisters have remained in Khartoum. The Dar Mariam Mission was struck on Nov. 3 with the bomb blasting the building’s second floor. The building houses children and women, including five Salesian sisters.

No one was killed in the blast, but one young mother and her two children, aged 7 and 4, received minor head wounds. All those who required medical treatment have been released from the hospital. Father Jacob Thelekkadan, the resident priest, explained that the women and children were on the ground floor at the time.

The floor, which sustained most of the damage, houses most of the bedrooms. Fr. Thelekkadan told ACN that the bomb broke in two when it hit the building, causing two explosions. “The first part of the bomb shattered a teacher’s room, hurting him on both his legs, but not very seriously. The second part of the bomb shattered the two rooms of the sisters and their room doors flew off and fell a meter away.”

Before the fighting broke out, Fr. Thelekkadan was in charge of St Joseph’s Vocational Center in Khartoum, which has since closed because of heavy fighting. He remained to support the Salesian sisters, who are looking after women and children, as well as the elderly and sick. Salesian sisters will continue to monitor the situation and do what they can for those most in need.

With more than 36% of its population living in poverty, Sudan is one of the poorest countries in the world, according to UNICEF. Low incomes and food deficiencies are common, and ongoing violence and civil unrest exacerbate already harsh conditions. Despite these challenges, more youth are in school today than ever before. There remain, however, some 3.2 million children between the ages of 6-16 out of school with the highest rates among nomadic populations, those living in rural areas and in the poorest households.

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

ACN United Kingdom – SUDAN: Missile hits Sisters’ house

ANS – South Sudan – The Don Bosco mission in Kuajok opens its doors to refugees from Sudan

Salesian Missions – Sudan

UNICEF – Sudan

*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.

The post SUDAN: Salesians impacted by fighting in Khartoum first appeared on MissionNewswire.

KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Students from Don Bosco Technical Secondary School (Don Bosco Embu) in Kenya participated in planting 400 trees. The activity is part of the school’s environmental sustainability “Green TVET Program” and is supported by Don Bosco Tech Africa. A new forest will be created from this planting event and is named after the late Father Richard Mtui, who served the school as bursar.

The event was also marked by a visit from Father T.J. George, provincial of East Africa, and Father Erastus Chege, provincial economer. They visited the Salesian community in Embu, which consists of the school, a national aspirantate and a modern farm. Fr. George and Fr. Chege interacted with the staff and students and were touched by their friendliness.

“Don Bosco Technical Secondary School teaches young students trades that are needed in Kenyan industries,” explained Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Most of the students at the school come from poor backgrounds, and there is little chance for them to gain an education. They are learning the skills for employment while also engaging in projects like tree planting to provide care and focus for a better environment.”

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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

ANS – Kenya – The Provincial of East Africa inaugurates the planting of 400 trees at the ‘Don Bosco Embu Technical Institute’

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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BURUNDI

(MissionNewswire) Educators who work with poor and street children in Rukago, Burundi*, took part in a training workshop focused on educational strategies for disadvantaged youth and ongoing teacher training. The educators are part of the Children, Alumni & Friends of Don Bosco, and the workshop was hosted by alumni.

During the workshop, Ms. Honorine, a psychologist and past pupil, highlighted the difficulties many minors face in situations of neglect and abuse. Many, she noted, are faced with no affection or support from adults and it negatively impacts their lives.

Father Jean Paul Ndayikengurutse explained the ways in which Salesian education is focused on prevention with the aim of protecting children from future abuse and neglect. With regards to Salesian educators, he noted they must be characterized by loving kindness, availability and presence.

Fr. Ndayikengurutse said, “A good Salesian educator must therefore maintain Don Bosco’s intentions, in educating good Christians and honest citizens. Salesian pedagogy must be based on aspects such as trust, welcoming and listening.”

Salesian missionaries in Burundi and around the globe provide education and social development programs to help poor youth and their families achieve self-sufficiency and have hope for a better life. Through schools, vocational and technical training programs, youth centers, medical clinics, and more, Salesians are ensuring youth have the services and programs they need to thrive.

Burundi, located in the heart of the African Great Lakes region, has seen more than a decade of violence and conflict which has contributed to widespread poverty, according to UNICEF. Children are some of the most severely affected by the country’s rampant poverty. Fifty-three percent of children under the age of 5 suffer from growth stunting caused by inadequate food, low-quality diet, poor infant feeding practices, poor household management of childhood diseases and the general decline of the country’s health system.

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

ANS – Burundi – A workshop for educators working with street children organized by the Alumni of Don Bosco

Salesian Missions – Burundi

UNICEF – Burundi

*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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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries live and work among the refugees at Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp in the border town of Palabek, Uganda. They have been supporting refugees since the opening of the camp in 2016.

Palabek Refugee Resettlement Camp is currently home to nearly 72,000 refugees and asylum seekers, mostly from South Sudan, and 60% are under age 13. It was officially set up to reduce congestion in larger refugee camps in the northwestern corner of Uganda. The country has 28 refugee camps for people from Ethiopia, Somalia, Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Sudan and South Sudan. Nearly 1.5 million refugees reside in Uganda, according to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

Palabek is not the typical African refugee camp but rather a settlement where local Ugandans from the north of the country and newcomers live together. The site provides a safe haven for many people who have lost their homes and loved ones to conflict, violence and persecution.

Salesians have established schools including a vocational training center and a parish, built a church and 17 chapels in nearby villages, and helped with education, food distribution and pastoral work. They organize youth sports and music. Education is a primary focus and one of the most effective tools young refugees can use to build their future.

Father Ubaldino Andrade, rector of the Salesian community in Palabek, said, “We need more Salesians to work in Palabek. Many young people are growing up without the care of parents who have returned to South Sudan.”

The Salesians in Palabek explained that refugees live in extreme poverty, working hard every day to survive and eating very little, sometimes only once a day. Many youth are forced to leave school to work breaking stones, making coal or collecting firewood. Others work in agriculture, planting maize or looking after animals. The few who manage to go to school have to walk long distances and lack educational materials and sufficient food. Many become mothers and fathers at a very young age, with no livelihood, experience or job.

Uganda is known for its unique and humanitarian refugee policy. The country welcomes refugees and grants them the right to work and freedom of movement. Despite the difficult living conditions and the trauma, refugees in the Palabek settlement form a community based on mutual support and solidarity. Local authorities and organizations are working to ensure security and maintain peace in the settlement. Residents of the surrounding villages and towns often share their resources with the refugees and help them integrate.

Salesian missionaries also operate in communities outside of Palabek including a refugee settlement in Kyaka. Their goal is to provide more locations for educational and pastoral work as more resources become available.

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

ANS – Uganda – Palabek: this is not a refugee camp

Salesian Missions – Uganda

UNHCR – Uganda Refugees

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Muhazi Technical-Vocational School, in the Gasabo district in the Kigali province of Rwanda, is offering a new agricultural course for young single mothers living with their parents. The goal is to empower women and help provide support for the most vulnerable. The project also aims to strengthen gender equality in education and in the agriculture business.

There are 25 students enrolled in the initial phase of the course, which will last an estimated six months. Most are from the Gasabo and Gicumbi districts. Students will receive a kit to attend the course, which contains overalls, shoes, hoes, rakes, spades, sprayers, soaps and seeds for cultivation.

The students will learn how to prepare the fields for planting bananas, tomatoes, peppers and onions. They will also learn about animal husbandry.

“Salesian missionaries in Rwanda and around the globe provide educational programs for women so they can find employment and become self-sufficient, which aids their families and communities,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “This farming course not only helps women gain an education but it will also help ensure that their families are fed.”

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Poor youth are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives.

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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

ANS – Rwanda – An agricultural course for single mothers at Don Bosco Muhazi

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

The post RWANDA: Farming course empowers young mothers first appeared on MissionNewswire.

RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Young women in the “Gender Matters for Green Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET)” program at Don Bosco Gatenga, located in Gatenga, Rwanda, were provided toolkits for employment while completing their technical courses in plumbing and electricity. This is the first group of women in the program.

Salesians note recent studies have shown that women are still underrepresented in technical courses such as masonry, welding, plumbing, electricity, carpentry and many other courses that are believed to be reserved only for young men.

In response, Salesian missionaries are working to change that through the Gender Matters for Green TVET project, which is financed by the Austrian Development Cooperation and Jugend Eine Welt. Salesians aim to increase the number of girls studying technical professions by removing the barriers that can hinder access to the courses. To help with this, Salesians have also held an awareness-raising campaign in the surrounding community to encourage girls to enroll in technical courses.

“Many women are choosing careers and finding success in male-dominated fields,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesians are working to ensure that young women have access to training in these fields that are high-paying and provide long-term job stability. Women are able to gain employment and support their families while giving back to their communities.”

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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

ANS – Rwanda – A job start toolkit for girls at Don Bosco Gatenga TSS

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) The Global Solidarity Fund project, set up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia*, has helped improve the lives displaced of women and men, refugees from other countries, street children, and other vulnerable people. The project has brought together the five religious congregations of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Salesian sisters with the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Ursuline Sisters, Missionaries of Charity and Jesuits through the Jesuit Refugee Service.

Launched at the end of 2020 in Addis Ababa, the network has also brought together businesses, investors, philanthropists, international bodies and governments in support of these efforts. Migrants and refugees from other African countries add to the more than 4 million inhabitants of Ethiopia’s ever-expanding capital city. According to the U.N. Refugee Agency (UNHCR), there are over 924,000 refugees and asylum seekers residing in Ethiopia. A majority originate from South Sudan*, Somalia and Eritrea. In addition, there are 3.5 million people internally displaced in the country.

Under the project, Salesian missionaries and sisters have been responsible for providing skills training and job preparation, something the Salesians are known for around the globe. Courses were offered in tailoring, fashion design, hairdressing, domestic help, leatherwork, welding, electrical skills, carpentry, IT, graphic design and printing. More than 70% of those who have taken courses have already found work and companies are excited for the skilled labor.

Through the Sisters with Missionaries of Charity House of Charity in Addis Ababa, young women who are displaced and are facing unplanned pregnancies are able to give birth there with the help of the sisters. They can stay for up to three months with their children. In that time, the sisters help prepare these young women for motherhood and to access training for employment.

Derartu Karle trained in tourism management and asked for the sisters help after becoming pregnant from a sexual assault. She has been supported through the pregnancy and in 2023, obtained a Cisco computer certification after a course at the Mary Help College. Within a few days, she found work as a data coder at a beauty school in Lewi and currently lives at the Nigat Centre with her young daughter.

Endashaw Tesfaye, who came to Addis Ababa to look for work thanks to the Missionaries of Charity, studied welding at the Salesian Mekanissa Center and is now a supervisor in a workshop. He lives alone and struggles to pay the rent, but he looks to the future with confidence.

Salesians also support migrants and street children at the Don Bosco Children Center. Youth are often picked up each morning by Father Angelo Regazzo, economer of the community, and taken to the program to learn more about it and possibly choose to join.

“Migrants and youth do not have money to go to school or be trained,” said Father Yohannes Menghistu, rector of the Salesian community. “At the Don Bosco Center they can study from morning until three in the afternoon. Before, however, we could only give them a certificate and help them look for a job, but today, thanks to the Global Solidarity project, they have many more employment opportunities in companies and can also be helped to open their own business.”

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world with more than 38% of its population living in poverty, according to Feed the Future. Close to 85% of the country’s workforce is employed in agriculture, but frequent droughts severely affect the agricultural economy leaving more than 12 million people chronically, or at least periodically, food insecure. In addition, more than two-thirds of the population is illiterate.

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ANS – Ethiopia – The Global Solidarity Fund project that changes the lives of many migrants and refugees

Salesian Missions – Ethiopia

UNICEF – Ethiopia

UNHCR – Ethiopia

*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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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Sixteen specialists and facilitators who are focused on the environment attended a three-day solar training workshop as part of Don Bosco Tech Africa’s Green TVET (technical and vocational education) project. Participants came from Angola, Burundi, Kenya, Madagascar and Nigeria.

The goal was to build the capacity of the participants in developing and implementing new solar energy technologies and applying new solar regulations. Don Bosco Tech Africa has adopted a strategy called Greening Campuses, which gives learners theoretical and practical exposure to different skills related to the environment.

Dr. George Adwek and Cyprian Njururi organized this workshop to prepare the green specialists and facilitators as trainers on new solar energy regulations, technologies, and pedagogical approaches. The workshop also helped educate the participants on legal provisions governing the environmental sector and aided them in developing a monitoring and performance tracking tool to collect data.

A Salesian noted, “The participants expressed their gratitude to the facilitators for empowering them with knowledge and skills. In addition, they promised to pay forward what they have learned to the young people and to bring about positive change in the Don Bosco technical and vocational training centers and communities surrounding them.”

Speaking on behalf of the facilitators, Adwek thanked the participants for their enthusiasm. He assured them that they will continue to be supported to ensure the goal of the project is achieved.

Brother John Njuguna, the deputy director of Don Bosco Tech Africa, reminded the participants of their roles in ensuring the success of the Green TVET project. He added that they are the ones to champion the Don Bosco TVET centers to be models of green culture where other institutions and communities come to learn.

Don Bosco Tech Africa is the coordinating body for the Don Bosco technical and vocational schools in the Africa region. The organization coordinates approximately 110 centers spread over 34 countries. Salesians aim to empower centers to deliver demand-driven and quality training to the marginalized and at-risk youth who gain employable skills through the centers. Don Bosco Tech Africa has trained Salesian technical and vocation center management and staff as part of the Trainers-of-Trainers program.

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

ANS – Kenya – Solar PV Training for Green Specialists and Green Facilitators

Don Bosco Tech Africa

Salesian Missions – Kenya

World Bank – Kenya

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Nursery and Primary School, located in the neighborhood of Kimihurura in Kigali, Rwanda, is undergoing an expansion to accommodate more children and provide increased quality education. The school will offer six classrooms, a spacious library, a computer lab and bathrooms.

The request for the expansion came from the parents. The school is relatively small and more parents would like to send their children there. The renovation is expected to be completed as children return to school this month.

At the conclusion of the 2023 academic year, Father Jean Bosco Ntirenganya, director of the Institute of Apostolic Formation of Kimihurura, stated that the expansion is part of the sustainable vision plan of the Salesian administration in this region.

Fr. Ntirenganya explained, “Aside from the knowledge that the children gain at Don Bosco Nursery and Primary School, we have accomplished many things. Our school has undergone a transformation from its original Kimihurura Nursery School, with significant improvements and additional efforts that have brought us to where we are today.”

He continued, “We also sought an official registration and received an official approval from the National Examination and School Inspection Authority last year, allowing us to operate as an accredited school. This is certainly an achievement worth celebrating.”

The school expansion project is being supported by the Salesians of Don Bosco in the Africa Great Lakes Province with the financial support from Opera Don Bosco Foundation in Milan, Italy.

“We appreciate the good management of this school led by the Sister Director and her assistants, and we also thank the parents for the good cooperation shown to us,” said Fr. Ntirenganya. “We are able to achieve so much with parent support. If we continue to work together we will achieve all of our dreams for this school and the children.”

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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

ANS – Rwanda – Don Bosco Nursery and Primary School-Kimumura in a wider angle

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province Facebook

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Africa Great Lakes Province (Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda) have been supporting people impacted by the flooding caused by the Sebeya River in Rwanda in May. Salesians were able to provide this support thanks to donations from Don Bosco Mondo in Germany and Mission Don Bosco in Turin, Italy. The flooding had a devastating impact on various infrastructure, including schools, churches, and people’s homes, resulting in a crisis for many individuals.

The seminary in Nyundo lost a fence and the dormitories, clothes, hygiene materials, kitchen items, student dining areas, and desks in the chapel and classrooms were inundated with water. Additionally, at the Diocese of Nyundo, offices and documents were severely damaged.

Many families around the Sebeya River were impacted and Salesians provided material support to the Salesian seminary, the Caritas Diocese of Nyundo, Sisters of the Blessed Jambo, and the Christian Muhato Parish. The support consisted of food, hygiene and sanitation items, and equipment including sports equipment and bibles.

Sister Kayitesi Agnes, from Sisters of the Blessed Jambo, said, “We are grateful for this generous act in response to the impacts caused by the flood from the Sebeya River on our community. We are pleased that you comforted us by inquiring about our needs for assistance. You provided us with essential support that will greatly benefit our lives, and you have remained by our side since we encountered the disaster. Thank you very much.”

Father Pierre Celestin Ngoboka, Salesian provincial superior, indicated that the initial support may not be enough and that Salesian efforts of support would continue. He also indicated any additional assistance that becomes available will be provided to ensure the continuation of rebuilding the affected infrastructure and lives.

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ANS – Rwanda – Salesians of Don Bosco extend a helping hand: Bringing hope to flood-stricken communities in Rubavu District

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SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian sisters with Daughters of Mary Help of Christians are still serving those in need even in the face of ongoing conflict within Khartoum, Sudan*. The war between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) started on April 15. There is no public transport, electricity is sporadic and water is becoming scarce.

While Salesian sisters in Shajara, close to Khartoum, had to close the elementary school and the women’s center, they are still serving those most in need. They are providing informal classes, giving food and shelter to several hundred people and also caring for the injured.

The Salesian sisters opened their center in Shajara in 1989. They are currently the only representatives of the Catholic Church in the vicinity of the Sudanese capital. The Salesian sisters’ residence is surrounded by poor families living in iron shacks.

The sisters have opened their classrooms and their residence for the poor and transformed the space into a house of prayer. They have established a playground for poor children where they can play during the day and a safe haven where they can sleep at night. About 80 children with their mothers live there. The number rises to more than 150 people a night.

The Salesian sisters offer breakfast daily to about 300 children and people who live around their residence. They are also offering medical support to those who are injured. Every day, between 15 and 20 injured patients come for medical help.

Salesian missionaries were also working in the area. They had a vocational school and St. Joseph Parish in Khartoum and another center in the city of El Obeid, 500 kilometers from Khartoum. A Salesian missionary, who is the director of the vocational school, explained, “All three have been closed due to insecurity and the dangers that lie ahead. The Salesians from these communities have left the country and I am staying with the Salesian sisters in Shajara.”

He added, “There is little known about the conflict because of the limited movement of people. In most areas the electricity has been interrupted for several weeks and temperatures are hot. In addition, running water has become a luxury in most areas of Khartoum, and the supply has also been drastically reduced. Some shops have been looted and many others have run out of supplies.”

Salesian sisters will continue to monitor the situation and do what they can for those most in need.

With more than 36% of its population living in poverty, Sudan is one of the poorest countries in the world, according to UNICEF. Low incomes and food deficiencies are common, and ongoing violence and civil unrest exacerbate already harsh conditions. Despite these challenges, more youth are in school today than ever before. There remain, however, some 3.2 million children between the ages of 6-16 out of school with the highest rates among nomadic populations, those living in rural areas and in the poorest households.

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ANS – Sudan – The Salesian oasis in Khartoum has been without electricity or water for almost 100 days, in the midst of war

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*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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UGANDA

(MissionNewswire) Workshops with eco-club members were recently held at three vocational training centers in Palabek, Bombo and Kamuli, Uganda. Youth were trained on topics such as climate-friendly agriculture, waste management, solar technology and sustainable business development. The participants were able to take this knowledge back to their training centers after the workshop. The goal is to ensure that as many youth as possible have access to this important information.

A Salesian missionary said, “Environmental protection and sustainability have a permanent place at training centers in Uganda. At many Don Bosco schools and vocational training centers around the globe there are now eco-clubs that work locally for environmental and climate protection.”

The eco-clubs and focus on sustainability were motivated by the teachings of Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

Salesian vocational training centers offers a number of courses in construction, electrical installation, electrical repair, electronics, hospitality, tourism, materials development and textiles. Because Salesian missionaries live in the communities in which they work, they are able to develop courses that give students the skills necessary to meet the demands of the local job market. The goal being to help each student transition out of the classroom directly into work.

Nearly 21% of the population in Uganda lives below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. This number rises to 33% for those living in the northern region where poverty is greatest. While seeing some economic growth as well as improvement in its United Nations Human Development Index ranking over the last 20 years, Uganda still ranks near the bottom at 159 out of 189 countries. After decades of war left many displaced, the people of Uganda face many significant challenges as they work to rebuild their country.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Sustainability workshop organized in Uganda

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KENYA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Boys Town (Bosco Boys) in Nairobi, Kenya, provides a home, school, playground and church for youth, primarily boys, who have been rescued from the streets. Boys who complete their primary education are then assisted with secondary education or are advised to choose technical training. Don Bosco Boys Town also provides vocational training for 340 youth — both boys and girls.

The campus has classrooms and workshops where 50 teachers provide vocational courses. Students can choose to study in 20 course areas including mechanics, welding, electrical engineering, carpentry and joinery, cabinetmaking, masonry, tailoring, aesthetics, and hairdressing.

The school is experiencing difficulties in providing water for the student community. The water table in the neighborhood has diminished with most of the wells drying up, including the one in Don Bosco Boys Town. Salesians have been forced to buy water to ensure the minimum amount of water the school needs. This is beginning to weigh heavily on the financial resources of the vocational school.

Excavation work has been started to find a deeper water source, but the existing pump is not powerful enough to bring it to the surface. Mission Don Bosco in Turin, Italy, has stepped in to help the vocational school buy a new electric pump to find water.

A Salesian said, “To date, the project has yet to be completed, but all of us at Don Bosco Boys Town are very optimistic. The collaboration developed and strengthened over the years with Mission Don Bosco has already brought many concrete results in Kenya.”

With Mission Don Bosco and the help of Olympic athlete Fiona May, Salesians in Makuyu were able to refurbish the printing workshop. At a Salesian center in Nairobi, Mission Don Bosco and May collaborated to purchase and install solar panels to ensure clean energy.

According to the World Bank, more than 7.8 million people in Kenya are living in extreme poverty, with the majority in rural areas. There are approximately 6.6 million people living on less than $1.90 a day in rural regions, while 1.1 million extremely poor people live in urban areas. Overall, the poverty incidence declined in recent years, but at a lower rate in urban areas than rural ones.

Youth living in Kenya’s larger cities like Nairobi are at risk for exploitation, forced labor and other abuses. Few attend the later stages of school as compared to those living in Kenya’s more rural areas. The few schools serving this disadvantaged community are beyond the financial means of most families.

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ANS – Kenya – Clean water for Don Bosco Boys Town

Don Bosco Boys Town

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RWANDA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Nursery and Primary School, located in the Kigali neighborhood of Kimihurura, Rwanda, recently held a graduation for its students. The school offers a quality education with programs in French and English. French is mostly used in the nursery level.

The graduation featured student performances, speeches from parent representatives and school administration, and the presentation of certificates to students who have completed the nursery level. All students received their grades as they concluded the 2023 academic year, with awards given to the best-performing students.

During this event, parents praised the teachers for their role in the development and education of their children. Parents with children who have completed the nursery level presented a gift to all teachers.

In her address, Sister Marie Josee Uwizera, head teacher of the school, highlighted that the school is consistently growing. She emphasized the school will continue to improve education rooted in Christian values and foster children who will mature into responsible citizens.

The director of the Institute of Apostolic Formation of Kimihurura, where the school is located, said, “It is a joy to see how happy the parents are and to see how the children are getting happier and more excited every year. The Salesian administration is making every effort to ensure the children continue to have access to improved education services.”

Father Jean Bosco emphasized that there will be numerous changes next year, including the addition of new classrooms equipped with technology and other programs. He praised the parents’ committee for its role in cooperating with the management of the school.

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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ANS – Rwanda – Ending the 2023 Academic year: A Remarkable Event at Don Bosco Nursery and Primary School

Salesians of Don Bosco AGL Province

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RWANDA: Students protect the environment

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AFRICA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with Don Bosco Muhazi Technical-Vocational School, in the Gasabo district in the Kigali province of Rwanda, and Father Pierre Célestin Ngoboka, provincial superior of the Salesians in the Africa of Great Lakes Province, inaugurated a new school building. Jean Michel Swalens, who represented the Belgian Embassy in Rwanda, local leaders, community members, and students joined in the celebration as well.

Since the school was established, roughly 840 students have received certificates in courses including culinary arts, masonry, tailoring, and literacy and math programs.

The new building, constructed as part of the ACTEC 2022-2026 program co-financed with the Belgian Directorate-General for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid, is equipped with all the necessary materials for students to take literacy and training courses.

A new computer lab will enable students to develop vital digital skills and enhance their computer literacy, preparing them for future careers in the technology-driven world. The building also has office spaces. The staff room will serve as a dedicated space for local ACTEC project coordinator and local job service officer who helps connect students to the job market.

The inauguration ceremony was a momentous occasion for the Don Bosco Muhazi school community. Students, teachers, staff and members of the community gathered to celebrate the milestone and express their gratitude for the immense support received.

A Salesian said, “The new school building is a testament to the commitment of the Belgian Government, ACTEC Urunana and Don Bosco Zwinaarde toward providing quality education and skills training among the youth. It represents a significant step forward in empowering the students of Don Bosco Muhazi to become successful professionals in their chosen fields.”

The Salesian added, “As the school enters this new chapter, it looks forward to utilizing the new facilities to further enhance the learning experience and create a nurturing environment for its students. With the new computer lab, training room, and staff room, Don Bosco Muhazi is poised to continue delivering excellent education and equipping its students with the skills necessary for a bright future.”

After bravely overcoming the trauma of the 1994 genocide, Rwandans looking to transform their country have made remarkable progress. Still, much remains to be done. Close to 39% of Rwandans live in poverty, according to the World Bank. Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with about 35% of the population engaged in subsistence agriculture with some mineral and agro-processing. Many of the country’s orphaned children are the tragic result of a violent civil war. Half of all children drop out of primary school and 2.2 million people — 22% of the population — face critical food shortages.

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ANS – Rwanda – Don Bosco Muhazi TVET School Unveils State-of-the-Art Building, Courtesy of ACTEC Project

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SUDAN

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries at the St. Joseph Vocational Technical School in Khartoum, Sudan,* have been forced to leave the school due to the advance of paramilitaries and the ongoing insecurity in the area. Salesians and students have taken refuge several kilometers away. Sudan has been struggling with a bloody internal war that broke out after weeks of power struggles.

According to the World Health Organization, there are more than 900 dead and more than 6,000 injured. More than 2.2 million people have been forced to flee their homes. International organizations report several cases of brutal violence, looting and killings. The situation is dire and close to 11.7 million lack access to food, water, shelter and medical care according to the United Nations.

In addition, there are only a few hospitals that remain open in Khartoum. Some have been occupied while others have closed. Many have been bombed. Sudan has been beset by wars for decades, including the conflict in Darfur in 2003 and the devastating humanitarian crisis that followed. It is also in a very unstable region with many neighboring countries having suffered major political upheavals and conflicts, causing millions of refugees.

Salesians across the country have been responding, providing support for the most vulnerable including women, children, the elderly, people with disabilities and those suffering from severe malnutrition. The three Salesian centers operating in Sudan are the St. Joseph Vocational Technical Center in Khartoum, St. Joseph’s in Kalakala and the Don Bosco Vocational Technical School in El Obeid.

In response to the growing needs, the Mission Don Bosco Office in Turin, Italy, has launched an appeal to help send basic necessities to Salesians for distribution to the people most affected by the conflict.

A Salesian explained, “Everything is needed, from basic necessities such as food and water, to medical care, vaccinations, and maternal and child health services. In addition, the displaced population needs sanitation facilities to prevent the spread of diseases, psycho-social support services, and the creation of safe spaces for women and children who have suffered abuse and violence.”

With more than 36% of its population living in poverty, Sudan is one of the poorest countries in the world, according to UNICEF. Low incomes and food deficiencies are common, and ongoing violence and civil unrest exacerbate already harsh conditions. Despite these challenges, more youth are in school today than ever before. There remain, however, some 3.2 million children between the ages of 6-16 out of school with the highest rates among nomadic populations, those living in rural areas and in the poorest households.

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Photo courtesy of Missioni Don Bosco

ANS – Sudan – A country devastated by violence for years

Salesian Missions – Sudan

UNICEF – Sudan

*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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(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries, with the support of the Salesian International Volunteering for Development (VIS), are committed to helping Eritrea’s reforestation process. A recent grant to VIS from the headquarters of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation will provide funding to plant 2,000 native trees on one hectare of land in the Dekemhare area. Olive trees, pines, acacias and other local plants will be used. The initiative is also seeking private donors so more trees can be planted.

Eritrea, like all Sub-Saharan African countries, is suffering the consequences of climate change in addition to water scarcity, which is leading to desertification. The advance of the desert is aggravated by deforestation practices. In response, the Eritrean Ministry of Agriculture has established that 200,000 hectares of territory must be dedicated to reforestation.

One Salesian missionary noted, “The goal is not only to plant trees, but to help the soil regenerate, conserve water, preserve habitats for local fauna, and develop rules and criteria for proper management. The entire Eritrean population, including high school students, local communities, adults and the elderly, have been called on to participate in this initiative. Several local communities have started projects aimed at protecting the environment including our VIS volunteers.”

The government’s goal is to reach 10% reforestation by 2027 across the country. Eritrea has joined the “Great Green Wall” initiative to plant trees on the borders of the Sahara and prevent desertification, which will serve to stop the emission of 250 million tons of CO2.

The Salesian project is also engaging 40 women selected from among those living in vulnerable conditions, including unemployed and/or single women leading their family as well as victims of violence and discrimination. Each woman will receive basic training for environmental care, gardening and reforestation activities and will be provided with tools and other useful materials for their work. The women will be paid for their work, allowing them to be able to earn an income to help support their families.

Eritrea has a population of approximately 5.5 million, of which 69% is estimated to live in poverty, according to the World Bank. The small country has one of the lowest GDP per capita in the world. While agriculture contributes only 13% to the country’s economy, it employs nearly 80% of the population. Only 12% of the total land is suitable for farming because of Eritrea’s rocky and mountainous terrain, and in part, due to the persistent drought which impacts much of the remaining landscape.

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ANS – Eritrea – Salesians and VIS on the front line against desertification

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ETHIOPIA

(MissionNewswire) The Global Solidarity Fund project, set up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,* has helped improve the lives of more than 1,500 returning migrants, refugees and those internally displaced in the country, according to an article by the Vatican News. The project has brought together five religious congregations including the Salesians of Don Bosco, Salesian sisters with the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Ursuline Sisters, Missionaries of Charity and Jesuits through the Jesuit Refugee Service.

Migrants and refugees from other African countries add to the more than 4 million inhabitants of Ethiopia’s ever-expanding capital city. According to UNHCR, the U.N. Refugee Agency, there are over 924,000 refugees and asylum seekers residing in Ethiopia. A majority originate from South Sudan, Somalia and Eritrea. In addition, there are 3.5 million people internally displaced in the country.

Under the project, Salesian missionaries and sisters have been responsible for providing skills training and job preparation, something the Salesians are known for around the globe. Courses were offered in tailoring, fashion design, hairdressing, domestic help, leatherwork, welding, electrical skills, carpentry, IT, graphic design and printing. More than 70% of those who have taken courses have already found work and companies are excited for the skilled labor.

Abebech, an Ethiopian mother who arrived in Addis Ababa from Zwai in search of work, was taken in with her baby by the Missionaries of Charity. She then studied cutting and sewing at the Mary Help College of the Salesian Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and now works in a clothing company.

Lydija Worku, owner of Emmanuel Garment, explained to Vatican News, “Those who are trained at Mary Help College have many excellent skills, which is why we joined with the Salesian sisters in this project. We have already hired nine employees trained through the project, but we would need at least 40.”

Samuel Dejene, age 19, grew up on the streets in the Addis Ababa suburb of Mexico. He met Father Angelo Regazzo, treasurer of the Don Bosco Children Center, and accepted an invitation to attend Salesian skill training. Dejene now works at a leather bag factory and lives with friends in a home they rent. Fr. Regazzo goes every day to meet street children and offer them a chance to change their lives.

The goal is the expand the project. The five heads of the congregations met at St. Michael’s Center, which houses the offices of the Socio-Pastoral Commission of the Archdiocese of Addis Ababa that oversees the project, to discuss the way forward.

According to Vatican News, an agreement has also been signed with a bank and another financial institution to provide micro-credits for migrants who want to start their own businesses. Father Petros Berga, head of the commission, said in the Vatican News article, “Thanks to this Global Solidarity Fund program, they (religious communities) are working together, and are stronger than before.”

Fr. Berga explained that a training hub has been created that offers job placement, job creation, self-employment help and health support. He added, “In the next phase, hopefully a three-year program, with the help of Global Solidarity Fund, we would like to train 10,000 beneficiaries.”

Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world with more than 38% of its population living in poverty, according to Feed the Future. Close to 85% of the country’s workforce is employed in agriculture, but frequent droughts severely affect the agricultural economy leaving more than 12 million people chronically, or at least periodically, food insecure. In addition, more than two-thirds of the population is illiterate.

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Photo ©: Giovanni Culmone (Global Solidarity Fund)

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ANS – Ethiopia – Salesians, FMA, other religious and dioceses networking to provide a future for migrants and vulnerable people

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Vatican News – Religious in Ethiopia offer a future to those in need

*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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