Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Agenzia Fides) - In Uganda thousands of children may die because of the serious consequences of persistent torrential rains in recent weeks. The floods in the north and east of the country directly affected at least 300,000 people and destroyed most of the harvests. Besides a concrete threat of outbreaks of cholera and malaria, almost two million people will face a serious food shortage.
In Uganda 200,000 people children of hunger every year and the recent floods could worsen the situation.
Italia Solidale NGO, active in 91 localities in Africa, India and South America involving over 2 million people, together with local religious and lay volunteers has launched an appeal to help these children with adoption at a distance.
Testimony from Uganda speak of dramatic conditions of homeless flood victims welcomed and assisted by local families and volunteers, helping to build damaged homes.
Damasco Namable, lay volunteer at Bunambutye Solidale, says the situation is critical but the people help one another: “… our community in Monte Elgon was seriously flooded when many rivers overflowed. Many homes in Bunambutye were flooded and harvest have been destroyed. Thanks to Italia Solidale we are dealing with the situation. Our groups of volunteers have been active for several years and are always ready to help in times of emergency. Some homeless families have been taken in by “solidali families”, and volunteers are working to repair the damaged homes. We are also holding meetings with the families to advise them how to prevent the diffusion of malaria and cholera.”
This “people for people” movement has already proved successful. But nevertheless thousands of children may die of hunger in the coming months. Aware of this tragedy Italia Solidale encourages Italian families to help save the lives of children, in Uganda and the rest of the world, to provide for a child through adoption at a distance. (AP) (31/10/2007 Agenzia Fides; Righe:39; Parole:492)
