Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bagamoyo (Agenzia Fides) – Orione Missionary Father Romolo Mariani has launched an appeal on account of the difficult conditions of the Muntanhana Weru mission in Bagamoyo. He writes in the “Don Orione Oggi” Magazine published by the Little Work of Divine Providence: “In the village, we have guests of all kinds and with all kinds of poverty. There are many with AIDS, tuberculosis, scabies, polio, without eyes, mental illnesses, all of them without families, left to their own devices.” The mission has several pavilions used as rooms, classrooms, and bathrooms surrounded by an unstable wall that brings back memories of the recently-ended civil war.
“The health conditions are precarious. There are very few bathrooms and the few that exist are very dangerous to use, especially for little children and those with polio who drag themselves meters and meters to get there. To resolve the problem, an Italian firm has offered to make new bathrooms, costing about 12,000 Euros.” The kitchens, all outdoors, require a large quantity of wood and Fr. Mariani says, “a simple gas stove, like those used on camping trips, could help solve the problem.”
The neighboring territory as well, “could be used to plant vegetables, which are very expensive here, and an irrigation system installed for rainwater.” The missionary then makes a list of work tools and basic materials needed: wheelbarrows, shovels, hoes, bricks, paint brushes of all different sizes, cables, electrical switches, scissors, glue, faucets, mosquito nets, and, if possible, a small electric saw. All these things can be found here, but they come at a high cost and low quality.” Father Mariani trusts in the help of friends and benefactors, “filled with hope that this part of southern Africa can also become a more beautiful and consoling place.” (AM) (Agenzia Fides 27/5/2009)
