We realized that Congolese in Butembo don’t seem to break for lunch. We had the driver stop so we could buy some roadside peanuts and some bananas. Then it was quickly off to the (in English) University of the Great Lakes of Butembo or ULPGL/Butembo. There are other locations of ULPGL, much like the University of Southern California.
We were warmly met by the Rector, Prof. Dr. Kambale Kandiki Valere and led to his office where he very formally welcomed us with a prepared written speech.
Presentation of a gift by the Rector
The school is a Christian based school that provides seminary training, but it also provides training for careers such as Economics, Business Admin, Health and Community Development and Teaching. This is consistent with an active church that provides social services in lieu of the government. This is where James Kataliko is earning his degree.
The rector took us to a large lecture room where 100 students were waiting.
Universite Libres des Pay des Grands Lacs de Butembo (ULPGL / Butembo)
After the usual greetings and introductions, we co-lead a lecture on Canadian charity rules and their implications for African projects. Michael started with a macro view of how income tax works and the concept of getting a tax break when giving to a registered charity.
Michael explaining Canadian tax policy
Brenda discussed the rules and regulations facing charities working in Africa.
Brenda discusses Canadian charity law
Michael came back on to discuss the value of a well documented plan when requested support. After our 30 minutes talk, we had a lengthy Q&A.
Their greatest interest was how to find someone in Canada to sponsor their projects. Michael explained how a big part of searching for money, in business as well as with charitable work, is the hard work of locating a suitable sponsor to ask. Then, you need to be prepared with a well documented plan. The concept of having a well documented plan seems a foreign concept here!
Dr. Kambale Kandiki Valere of ULPGL / Butembo
Bens in Congo 
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