Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Duekoue (Fides Service) - Since the beginning of June in the area of Duekoue, diocese of Man, there have been clashes between Dioula and Guere people in which at least 69 people have been killed and thousands forced to abandon their homes and fields.
Fides has received another pressing appeal from Sr Christine local Superior of the Daughters of Mary Auxiliatrix who are struggling to provide assistance and shelter for thousands of people who are destitute. Here is the appeal:
“In Duékoué the situation is desperate: hundreds of people who lack all means of subsistence keep arriving day and night at the mission. There are numerous children on their own and many are under shock after seeing their parents killed. Heavy persistent rains worsen the conditions of those sheltering in the mission yard. They are hungry and rely on us for everything!
The mission is now sheltering about 15,000 people who need food, clothing, medical care. The babies need milk, vitamins, protein cereal, infant’s syrup, bottles, soap, clothing, blankets.
Our community comprises 4 Sisters from four different countries Italy, Belgium, France and Mali. Here at Duékoué mission opened 22 years ago, we work together with Salesian Fathers. The mission is a parish and there is a school. We are involved in pastoral care for children and young people and we run a rural crafts training centre. We have a hostel for women, a centre for women’s promotion and education, a dispensary, adoptions at a distance, we have a programme of assistance for children with a disability supported by ‘Liliane Foundation’ and we also make home visits to villages in the area”, Sr Christine concludes.
(AP) (13/6/2005 Agenzia Fides; Righe:25: Parole:299)
