Belfast unites to support Mozambique

Belfast supports a community in need in Mozambique

Community activists and individuals from across Belfast have combined to raise awareness and support for the Kuvumbana health and education project in Mozambique. Deeply moved by a recent visit to the area, actor Stephen Rea explains why this project, providing assistance to children orphaned as a result of Aids, is worthy of support.

"Last year, I travelled to Xai Xai province of Mozambique and witnessed first hand the ravages of poverty and Aids. The Aids pandemic has left a generation of orphans in Mozambique, many of the heads of households are now children.In the midst of this disastrous situation, I was incredibly heartened by the Kuvumbana Project, which identifies, monitors and counsels orphaned and vulnerable children. The project also builds the community's ability to care for these children by training local community volunteers. With their help, poor children can access health and schooling opportunities denied them by losing their parents.I feel we have a real opportunity to make a massive difference to these children's lives and futures by supporting the Kuvumbana project. I am delighted that the Belfast community are keen to help build better lives for the children of Mozambique".

Belfast knows only too well the support needed by disadvantaged communities under stress and how much international help can make a difference. In 2006, we hope to raise substantial funds to support the Kuvumbana project, enabling them to work with 3,500 children and 1,500 families.

The initiative is being led by:
Geraldine McAteer, Chief Executive,West Belfast Partnership
Sammy Douglas, Chairman, Belfast Area Partnerships
Trevor Ringland, One Small Step
Tony Mc Cusker, One Small Step
Avila Kilmurray, Director, Community Foundation Northern Ireland
Jim Deery, Ashton Centre
Jackie Redpath, Greater Shankill Partnership
Peter Lavery, Belfast businessman
Mary McKee, Chief Executive, Groundwork NI