Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Nairobi (Agenzia Fides) - Education is an essential tool to overcome religious, tribal and political barriers, as well as being an essential element for human development. This is what His Exc. Mgr. Joseph Alexander says, Bishop of Garissa, where last April 148 students were killed in a massacre claimed by the Somali Shabaab (see Fides 8/4/2015). Following the attack "a number of schools were closed after parents withdrew their children and teachers asked to be transfered for fear of the recurrence of similar attacks", said Mgr. Alessandro.
In the last year, however, students are returning to local schools, several of which are Catholic. "It is a sign of progress and courage to continue with education, the provision of medical care and evangelization" says the Bishop, who intends to re-launch the activities of the diocese where he worked for some time as Auxiliary and now as Titular ( see Fides 09/12/2015). "We are planning to build new primary schools, the first secondary school and provide housing for priests and nuns who wish to serve in the diocese".
The Diocese of Garissa manages five primary schools and eight nursery schools, attended by Christian and Muslim pupils, a health center, outpatient clinics and a physical rehabilitation center. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 27/01/2016)
