Lm95,000 raised for Kenya mission

The Maltese people have shown that their generosity goes beyond the island - having raised about Lm95,000 over the past five months to help those living in a famine-stricken area in Kenya.

The appeal was launched by a Catholic diocese in December as two years of draught took their toll on a good part of Kenya.

Although things are better now, following some rain last month, there is still the need for help, the Bishop of Garissa, Mgr Paul Darmanin, said. Mgr Darmanin has been a missionary in Kenya since 1981 and heads the largest diocese in the country.

The people, mostly nomads, lost most of their cows and half their goats, and Mgr Darmanin, who hails from Zabbar, said the need for help would probably continue to be felt throughout the year.

Apart from providing some grass for the animals, the rain has had a positive effect on people's morale, Mgr Darmanin said.

He explained that the diocese buys food with the funds raised and distributes it to the people, with special attention given to the most vulnerable, including pregnant and lactating women, malnourished children, senior citizens and the sick.

The bishop insisted that the diocese makes no distinction between Catholics and Muslims, who make up the majority of the region's people. "We help all those in need, irrespective of their religion," he said, adding that because the area is mainly inhabited by Muslims part of the diocese's mission is to build good relations with them.

He explained that when the diocese was set up in 1984 many asked why it was being built in an area which was not predominantly Catholic. However, over the years it has garnered the respect of many Muslims.

Asked about the way forward, Mgr Darmanin said the diocese would try to help the people acquire animals and drill more boreholes to store water. However, more immediate help will be needed for the next year.

Donations can be sent directly to the Mission Office, Franciscan Capuchin Friary, Floriana VLT 14, which can be contacted on 2123 3874, 2122 5525 or by e-mail at ofmcap@keyworld.net.