Local group raising money for African school
Posted By ANDREA HOUSTON , EXAMINER STAFF WRITER
Posted 1 year ago
A Tanzanian priest on a mission to raise enough money to keep 2,100 young African girls in school is getting some help from a group of Peterborough people.
Father Winfried Ngonyani said if he doesn't raise $22,000 by July, two girls' high schools, St. Agnes and Regina Mundi, will likely shut down.
"That would allow the girls to stay in school, be fed and complete their exams until October," said Tony Buell, a freelance filmmaker who has been documenting the story.
"Most people who live in that region are farmers, and Africa has really been suffering under a two-year drought, largely from climate change," he said.
The money would allow the girls, aged 15 to 22, to complete their exams and have a brighter future, Ngonyani said.
"I'm praying for the help," he said. "Some (graduates) have gone on to university to become doctors, lawyers and engineers. They are great examples for our country."
Ngonyani was sent to Canada in early April by his bishop with only one contact name.
That contact died only days after his arrival, he said.
Since then, Ngonyani has managed to get the support of Canadian Samaritans for Africa, a volunteer group based in Peterborough, which is now championing the fundraising mission, said Loretto Lane, executive officer for the group.
"We just had to get involved because we have so much in Canada," said Lane. "They don't even have enough rice to keep these kids fed."
So far, $10,000 has been raised with the help of Lane's group and Buell spreading the word, she said.
Buell is now asking the Peterborough community for additional support.
NOTES:For more information or to donate money, callTony Buellat 761-1598 or email at
