The Kilimanjaro Challenge Team IV has successfully climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, expedition leader Josef N. Grech said from Tanzania this evening. This was the first time the whole Challenge team managed to reach the top of the mountain.

The 14 participants started their trek on Tuesday and reached the summit of the Kilimanjaro on Sunday.

Mr Grech said that their "greatest enemies" were exhaustion and the freezing temperatures they experienced during the last part of the climb which took them 12 hours.

"The determination of the team and the support the members gave to each other were outstanding," Mr Grech, said.

It then took the team another 20 hours of trekking, covering 30 kilometres, to climb down the mountain.

The aim of this expedition is to raise funds for the building of an orphanage in Nyamonge, Kenya, for babies and children whose parents have died of AIDS. Prior to its departure the group had raised €45,000 out of a targeted €65,000.

Anyone wishing to help their cause can send a text message to the following numbers: 5061 7375 for €2.99, 5061 8915 for €6.99 and 5061 9219 for €11.65.

Direct deposits can also be made to HSBC's Malta Kilimanjaro Challenge account number 044118230050 or Bank of Valletta's account number 40017993267.

www.kilichallenge.com

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