Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bukavu (Agenzia Fides) – "We will start over from the drawing board and rebuild what the fire destroyed," Fides was told by Sister Delia Guadagnini, regional superior of the Xaverian Missionaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, present in Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu (eastern DRC), where on Sunday, August 22 a fire destroyed part of the Olame Center of the local Archdiocese.
"The fire, caused by natural causes, has completely destroyed the two mills and the entire stock of maize, sorghum, and soybeans used for preparing meals for children. Other parts were spared, but the damage is still severe," says Sister Delia.
"This does not prevent us from going forward and rebuilding what was destroyed. Our motto is to "start over" says the Regional Superior. The Olame Center, founded in 1959, depends on the diocesan development office (Bureau de développement diocésain-BDD) and is responsible for training and promotion of women.
"The center coordinates a series of Olame parish centers for training of women and girls. In particular, it offers training to those women who could not go to school, carrying out activities for literacy and basic education," mentions Sister Delia.
The Olame Center, led by Mrs. Mathilde Muhindo, works on behalf of all women of the Archdiocese, not only those living in Bukavu, but also those living in villages. "Another very important activity is assistance to women who are victims of rape, a widespread scourge in the region," said Sister Delia. "About 200 women and girls receive counseling, offering a listening service and support that can last even years." (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 24/08/2010)
