We have met many wonderful people in Congo, but we haven’t talked about James Kataliko and Saasita for a while.

They are still working together today, serving in an village area called Kalondo 30 km south west of Butembo and far from any NGO assistance. In 2011, this area was devastated by militia groups likely as part of the Goma / M23 conflict. Their goats and chickens were taken, leaving people with nothing.

James recently wrote to explain the immense difficulty of travelling 6 km to the nearest health clinic while gravely ill. Many simply don’t make it. James and Saasita somehow managed to find the means to construct a small health centre in Kalondo with four beds and two nurses to serve the sick to either receive nursing care or to convalescence. They are looking for funding to pay for the nurses and for a small solar energy system.

Kalondo health centre. 4 mattresses. 30 km SW of Butembo

Kalondo health centre with 4 mattresses. 30 km SW of Butembo

We were asked to help support them and they used our funds to provide a shipment of medicines and supplies.

Delivering medical supplies in Kalondo

Delivering medical supplies in Kalondo

Lining up to say thank-you!

Lining up to say thank-you! Saasita – back centre. James – bottom left

In Butembo, James has been a key player in helping at a newly built children’s school, Ecole Primaire des Scouts.

Ecole Primaire des Scouts, Butembo North Kivu DRC

Ecole Primaire des Scouts, Butembo North Kivu DRC

We can’t stop applauding their dedication to serve others in multiple endeavours. They have the spirit of volunteerism that we are rapidly losing with our growing dependency on government to do everything for us. If you saw a need, would you respond like James and Saasita?