Annual Report: 2013 Edition

Annual Report

2013 Edition

Table of Contents:
He Is Faithful by Tresor Yenyi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 3
The Power of Giving by Grace Mbuthia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 4
Year In Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 5
Stars of Mwangaza by Deo Yenyi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9
They Are Worth Fighting For by Doug Arnold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 10
Promedi: Her Sponsorship Story by Deo Yenyi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12
Spotlight: Friends from Across The World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12
My Journey to Kinshasa by Cindy Nicole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13
Spotlight: Chicken Coop in Bakole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 14
The Beauty of Congo by Lily McDaniel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15
A New Friendship by Joy McDaniel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15
Hope In The Rain Forest by Deo Yenyi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16
Spotlight: Telema Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 17
She Is A Shining Light: Interview with Ange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 18
Miracle Garden by Deo Yenyi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19
Making Christmas Memorable by Deo Yenyi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 20
Help Needed at the Kalembe Lembe Pediatric Hospital by Esther Nzau . . . . . . . . . . Page 21
I Am The Clay by Grace Mbuthia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 22
Mwangaza International
PO Box 4382 - Joplin, MO - 64803-4382
Email: mwangazaint@gmail.com
Phone: 417-893-0343
Website: www.Mwangazaint.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MwangazaInternational
Twitter: @mwangazaint - Youtube: Mwangazaint
2

He Is Faithful by Tresor Yenyi

Each time I write a speech or a sermon and even a paper for
school, I always have a theme song. I love background
movies. When I think of 2013, the word that comes to mind
is faithfulness. I feel like I tell you the same thing each
year; it is because our God is faithful.
Last year was an exceptional year for Mwangaza
International. Our child sponsoring program grew to 118
children in 5 provinces of the Democratic Republic of
Congo. As I write this today, I think of young Nathan who
loved school so much that he was willing to pick up trash in
order to attend school just to find out that there is a family
across the world willing to come to his rescue. He came to
school barefoot and returned with a brand new uniform and
shoes; plus, his entire school year was paid for.
I think of Maman Philo who is achieving success in her
garden and her business because a family across the world gave her $150 to turn her passion into
business success. She now has a table at the market where she not only sells products from her garden,
but also toiletries. She feeds her family and sends her children to school.
I think of the many people who traveled from the
United States and Canada to visit our children. They
gave their time and their love to these kids. Yes, it is
faithfulness. You, our friends, have been faithful in
supporting our work. You have gone above and
beyond to make sure that this world is changed one
little thing at a time. It is the faithfulness of our teams
and all our volunteers who sacrifice so much to make
sure that the children have all they need. Our partners
have been faithful in coming alongside us in
uncertain times to make sure that our kids dont lack
anything.
In all this we are thankful to the One who never left
us on our own. The God we serve is faithful, and it is
his faithfulness that leads others to action on behalf of
these children. I am looking forward to serving the
faithful God alongside you this year again.

Your friend,
Tresor
3

The Power of Giving

by Grace Mbuthia

My mother has always told me, "Giving is your greatest weapon

against lacking anything. When you give, you open the door for
blessings to flood into your life." The Bible is filled with scriptures
about the power of giving. Some of my favorites are Prov. 11:25: "The
generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be
watered Himself" and Prov. 22:9: "He who has a bountiful eye will be
blessed for he gives his bread to the poor." God instructs us to be givers
and generous to the people around us... to the least of these. But He
doesn't just tell us what to do. John 3:16: "for God so loved the world
that He GAVE His one had ONLY son..." He gave His best gift to us
personified in the body of Christ. It's only befitting that we do the same.
The beautiful thing about giving is that "the power of giving never leaves
the possessor empty. He is the first beneficiary. The benefits are
enormous and encompass the spirit, soul and the body of the individual,
which results in prosperous life. For example, you have joy when you
share whatever you have with another. When you put a smile on
someones face, you inevitably do so also on your face." - Ngozi Nwoke
Acts 20:35: "it is more blessed to give than to receive." You dont wait to
receive first before you give, just like a farmer does not receive any
harvest before he plants his seeds. One thing is certain; your harvest will
be more than your seeds. The promises of The Lord are yea and amen.
When He says in 2 Corinthians 9:11 that "you will be enriched in every
way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce
thanksgiving to God," He means exactly that. His word does not return to
Him void. Many times we question whether we are in a position to give.
Everyone has the potential to give. Giving doesn't just include finances. Our time, prayers, talents,
knowledge, skill, resources, connections, and energy are all areas in which we can give. I dare say, if
you have the breath of God in you, you can speak life into another person who is hopeless. Luke 6:38:
"Give and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over." I
am a living witness to the truth behind this verse. God stands by His word. There are many people who
need you to walk into their lives and be a blessing to them. Some of you already know a few people
you could actually help but are hesitant. I urge you to test God and His word. See if He doesn't fulfill it.
As you give of yourself and your resources,
do it cheerfully and in love, expecting
nothing in return.
Mother Teresa once said, "it's not how much
we give but how much love we put into
giving". I hope that you will make that move
and you will surely reap what you sow!

As you begin to experience the joy of giving,

you will in turn challenge others to do the
same. Giving is contagious. BE CONTAGIOUS!!

Year in Review
Mission:

Mwangaza International exists to bring the light of Christ to the broken people of the
Democratic Republic of Congo and of the world.

Vision:

Our mission is accomplished by establishing ministries that will take care of the physical,
emotional and most importantly spiritual needs of those who are lost and broken.

In order to implement the vision, Mwangaza International has developed a threefold action plan:
1. Compassion Ministries :
a. Mwangaza Education.
School Sponsorship.
Art Camps.
b. Mwangaza Health
Luke Fund.
Epilepsy Awareness.
Medical Mission.
c. Empowerment
Mwangaza Women.
Micro Business Grant.
Telema Store.
d. Orphan Care
Orphanage Support.
Christmas Project.
Human Trafficking Prevention.
2. Leadership Training
Ministry Training.
Lay Training.
3. Bible Distribution.
This activity report intends to present our activities in 2013

Compassion Ministries
Mwangaza Education
School Sponsorship: 2013 saw a growth in Mwangaza Education. The program was expanded to other
part of the country. Uvira, Masisi, Lubumbashi and Gemena now have children sponsored through
Mwangaza. Children receive full tuition and school supplies. They also have after school program. The
program has been successful in preventing abandonment. The program currently has 118 children.
Art Camps: Summer Art camps were held in Kinshasa. 340 children participated in the activities.
These activities help awake creativity and create a sense of self-worth in the children. We are hoping to
expand the program to the province this coming year.
5

Mwangaza Health
Luke Fund: Our Luke fund, helps rescue women
and children who cannot afford to pay their bill at
the hospital. This year the program was under
funded. Despite that we were able to reunite 35
families by paying their childrens fees.

Empowerment
Mwangaza Women: 11 women received grants
to start their businesses in 2013. Their interest
went from a clothing store, to a food stand, and
gardening. We are looking forward to seeing how
their work multiplies over this year. We have also
helped 5 women improve their businesses
through artisan work.
Garden: The garden has been the greatest
experience. 30 men and women in Kisenso are
sharing 2 acres of land to produce food for their
families. We have provided them with the
necessary tools; Gloves, rubber boots and
watering cans to improve their productivity.
Telema Store: 2013 was Telemas year. We have
launched successful new styles of purses and
aprons. In Kinshasa, the store was invited to
several prestigious events. Products have also
been sold well in the USA at several events. An
Etsy store was also open to sell products online.
The ladies at Telema have exceeded all
expectation and continue to keep a tradition of
excellence.

Orphan Care
Sustainability is the key word in 2013. We started
and completed a chicken coop for the Bakole
orphanage. At the Enrica orphanage we have
supported them through the year providing food
and supplies needed for the 150 children.
Matumaini, the princess home, received help in
food and other necessities needed for the girls.
The Chistmas project reached out to 800 children in Kinshasa, Bukavu, Goma, Uvira, Gemena, Masisi
and Lubumbashi. The program celebrated 9 years of existence this year, and we are looking forward
for more.
6

Leadership Training
In 2013 Mwangaza International sponsored two seminars. Both seminars were held in March for International womens day activity. The first was themed: Women as agent of development. This seminar was directed towards the women in Kisenso,
The second seminar was a training seminar for girls at the Bomo center. Girls who were rescued from
human trafficking received teaching about the value and were trained to help other girls in the same
circumstances.

Bible Distribution
In 2013, Mwangaza International distributed 150 bibles to girls in the Paka Juma area known as a
stronghold of sex trafficking.

He Is a Faithful Provider
He is a faithful provider. We are thankful for all those who gave this year. We had an exciting end of
the year and are pleased to announce that our office in Kinshasa will finally be completed. We are also
in process of searching for a vehicle and land for a God-size project! We were able to take care of the
children and create opportunities for the women and men in the DRC.

Thank you
SUPPORT & REVENUE
Churches
Corporate
Foundations
Private donors
Non Cash Donations
Total Support

on behalf of the children, women & men

of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

AMOUNT
4219.74
2885
15214.47
51118
2864.12
76301.33

EXPENSES
Mwangaza Education
Mwangaza Health
Empowerment
Orphan Care
Bibles
Training
Administration
Total Expenses

AMOUNT
24560.23
2,299
14,300
16,592.47
1500
1450
7,912.39
68614.09

Mwangaza is active
in 5 provinces in DR Congo
Equateur Province

North Kivu Province

Gemena:

Masisi:

School Sponsorship
Christmas Project

School Sponsorship
Orphan Care
Christmas Project
Empowerment

Kinshasa Province

Goma:

Kinshasa:
School Sponsorship
Luke Fund
Garden
Telema Store
Leadership Training
Bible Distribution
Human Trafficking Prevention
Support Orphanges
Christmas Project
Mwangaza Women
AIDS Orphan Care
Art Camps
Choir

School Sponsorship
Christmas Project.

Katanga Province

Lubumbashi:
School Sponsorship
Christmas Project
Child Labor Prevention.

In 2013 there were

8 Women Sponsored for Business
30 Gardeners Empowered
100 AIDS Orphans in Support Groups
118 Children Sponsored
200 Children in 3 Partnering Orphanages
350 Children Attended Art Therapy Camp

South Kivu Province

Bukavu:
Christmas Project
Sewing Training for Women
Bible Distribution

Bideka:
Support for Rape Victims
Leadership Training
Empowerment
Bible Distribution

Uvira:
School Sponsorship
Christmas Project

Stars of Mwangaza
by Deo Yenyi

Interesting things happen at

Mwangazas support groups. Our
support group in Kisenso, an
impoverished area of Kinshasa,
was made of 6 children. The
children came from a community
where AIDS has devastated their
families and the social structures.
One thing they had in common
was their love for music. They
enjoy their music very much.
In the summer of 2013, Travis
Montgomery, a student at Ozark
Christian College, traveled to
Kinshasa to make their dream a
reality. The kids recorded an
album. They sang with their
heart, they gave their best in an
album entitled Take Our Gift.
The goal is to support their
community with the funds raised.
The children dream is to have an
art center in their community.
The project is estimated at
$7,000. So far the album has
raised $102. We are still far from
the goal.

To support this dream,

please download their music at:
www.mwangazaint.org
And please do not forget
to leave a tip.

They Are Worth Fighting For

by Doug Arnold

My wife and I adopted our daughter,

Abigael, from DRC in September,
2013. The process was long and
difficult (Though, given the current
circumstances surrounding adoption
from DRC, it doesnt begin to compare
with what families in process now are
going through). Wed been on a visit a
year prior, so we had seen the
circumstances there firsthand.
While we waited to go back to get
Abigael, we heard of a way to help
other children in DRC. We could pay
school tuition for a child who otherwise wouldnt be able to attend. That seemed like the right thing to
do. It certainly sounded nice. Who wouldnt want to help a child if given the opportunity and ability?
But my wife thinks big. Sometimes, she infects me with it. Well, DRC is the worst place on earth to
be a little girl. Lets sponsor all the girls. Obvious questions were how many girls there were, how
much tuition was, and how much schooling would one get for that amount of money. We didnt ask
any those before making this decision. There were 7 girls who needed help. Sign them up. It was as
simple as that. I saw a quote once thats always stayed with me. What is understood need not be
discussed. This was one of those instances.
We got a call a few days later. There was only one more left . . . a boy. He wanted to go to school. In
fact, he was so intent on getting into school that hed offered to pick up trash around the school as
payment for tuition. We, of course, sponsored him, as well.
In a week or so we got pictures of all 8, and on the fridge they went. I assumed thats where theyd stay
until some day when Abigaels drawings overtook them on the fridge.
Finally, the day came to go get Abigael. While we were in DRC waiting, we were asked by a
representative of Mwangaza if we would like to go see the school where wed sponsored the children.
We said we would, so we planned a
trip out to the school. On the way
there, they told us that we would be
able to meet the children in person.
This was surprising to us. Sure, we
had these childrens pictures on our
fridge and we made it a point to pray
for them, but meeting them in person
was never an option in our minds.
We never considered it. What a
blessing it was.
10

When we arrived, we drove through

the gate and were immediately
mobbed by school children. The
brave ones came right up and started
touching our arms. The others
made a circle around us that moved
as we walked. We began giving
high fives and saying hello and
trying our best to communicate
through smiles and handshakes and
the five or so Lingala words wed
tried to memorize at that point. We
made our way to an office (loosely
translated) where we met the
principal (Im guessing) and a few
teachers all the while being greeted by more and more children. As word spread that strange people
(us) were there, the circle surrounding us got bigger and bigger. I was filming the entire visit with my
phone. I began showing the children the images in the phone as I was filming. It was mysterious. We
were mysterious. I gave the phone to one of them who filmed their friends. We all waved and acted
silly. Then, I showed one of the girls how to switch the camera around so you could see yourself.
Minds were blown. You could see their confusion. I wasnt even sure if they had mirrors.
As we moved along, the crowd moved with us like an amoeba. We were led into a classroom. Children
surrounded the classroom door looking in through the rebar that crisscrossed the windows. In that
classroom, we were introduced to all eight of the children we sponsored. They stood up at the front of
their classmates reciting things theyd learned in a language my wife and I didnt understand. It was
beautiful. They werent some commercial on TV. They werent money that we sent half a world away
and then forgot. They werent even pictures on our fridge anymore. They were children standing in
front of us. Again, it was beautiful. Because of Mwangaza, these children were in school learning when
otherwise they would be on the streets or worse. After they were done, my wife and I hugged them and
shook their hands. We told them how proud we were of them. Even though we couldnt communicate
through shared language, they got our message, and we got theirs. Good work. Keep it up. We will.
Thanks.
There are big overwhelming
problems in DRC! said many of the
people weve talked to.
Thats true.
Any reasonable person knows youd
be wasting your time thinking you can
make a difference, said some of those
same people.
Thats false.

It works, everyone.
We saw it wit h our own eyes.
11

Promedi: her sponsorship story

Promedi is 10 years old. She was born in Matadi (West
of Kinshasa). Her name means Gods wonderful
promise. Indeed, her life is blessed, and God has a
plan for her. When she moved to Kinshasa, her
grandmother enrolled her in the Mayi Ndombe Primary
School. Promedi loves school and wants to be a
successful hairstylist when she grows up. Her
grandmother did her best to help her through school,
but often she was not able to pay her fees. She was
often kicked out of school. She was not sure she would
be able to go to school this year, but God had a plan;
she became part of the sponsoring program.
I like going to school not fearing that I will be kicked out because of money. I am blessed that I have
all I need to go to school. Promedi also enjoys spending time with her friends. She is concerned for
those who are not as lucky as she is. It saddens me that so many children in my school are kicked out
because of money. It reminds me that I am blessed. She is also worried about her classroom. When it
rains, we get wet because theres water coming from the roof. She remains thankful for the
opportunity she has. I want to say thank you to the family that helps me. I am very thankful.

Friends from
Across The World
Spotlight:

Rowan: I was happy to write the students in Congo. It is fun to

meet new people. I think the kids in DRC also liked getting letters.
I am excited for my next letter. My mom says they should be
coming soon. I hope to one day meet the kids we have been writing
to. I still have my letter from last year hanging up.
Elissa (Rowans mother): When the kids got the letters, they were
very excited, and it meant so much to them. It is nice to see the kids
reach across oceans and think about their global village

12

My Journey
to Kinshasa by Cindy Nicole
On November 9th, I boarded a plane to Kinshasa, DRC,
for a journey that would forever change me. My main
reason for traveling to Kinshasa was to meet our
adopted son, Christopher. Another reason was to bring
donations on behalf of the Linked Through Love
Foundation, which I am a part of. Our foundation is
blessed to work alongside the Mwangaza International
team.
My trip began with meeting Rose Yenyi. Rose is a very
gentle, kind spirited person. Her smile is infectious, and
her passion for what she does is truly inspirational! Our
first stop was Matumaini, a home for abused girls.
Once we arrived, all the children ran to hug Rose and
watched carefully as a new face followed behind her. The young girls quickly warmed up to me and
gathered around with curiosity. We had brought with us individual care packages as well as a hockey
bag full of other items such as dresses, backpacks, pencils, and more. After spending some time with
the girls drawing, we headed outside where they sang for us. These young girls were marvelous and a
sight of true beauty!
Our second stop was to an orphanage that had about 150
kids. The facility was very large and filled with children
of all ages. Again, when we arrived the children ran up
to Rose and gave her huge hugs, and she again returned
with smiles and a hugs! For this orphanage, we had
brought clothes of all sizes for the children. Linked
Through Love Foundation had purchased Canadian Tshirts, which, by far, were my favorite to see on the
kids!!
My final stop was to Bakole where we again brought
many bags filled with toys, backpacks, school supplies,
and some treats! Linked Through Love had worked
alongside Mwangaza International in order to raise funds
for three chicken coops. Bakola was the first location to
receive a coop. I was truly amazed to see what our hard
work back home in Canada had done for these children.

13

It is one thing to know you are working towards a goal, but to

see it first hand was indescribable! After spending some time
touring around the orphanage, we went outside and played
with the kids. The young girls loved the bubbles. The younger
boys gathered together in the corner to play with their new
trucks, and the older boys were outside running around
playing soccer with their new ball!
I am truly blessed and honored not only to be a part of the
Linked Through Love Foundation but also to work with
Mwangaza International. They are a team of amazing people.
Their hearts and passion for what they are doing shows. While
in DRC, Mwangaza was incredible to me. They made me feel
safe and at home. I look forward to returning one day to
Kinshasa and working with Rose and her team again!

May God richly bless you: Tresor, Rose,

and those at Mwangaza International.

Spotlight: Chicken Coop In Bakole

For those who have been at the Bakole orphanage, there is an addition to the landscape. Behind the
building is a white house. Inside there is a chicken coop. With the help of the Linked through Love
Foundation and Love More Foundation we have built this coop. This is a hope that the orphanage will
move toward sustainability.
We are truly believing that the sale of eggs will contribute long term to covering some of the expenses
of the orphanage. We are proud of the Bakole orphanage for their enthusiasm and willingness to move
forward and take this important step.

14

The Beauty of Congo by Lily McDaniel

I was able to travel to Congo with my parents in February of 2013. On our first
day in Congo, we went to an orphanage called Enrika. Enrika was the first
orphanage I had been to. I was very overwhelmed because everyone there spoke
either Lingala or French. When we arrived, the children ran to the car to greet
us. Miss Rose took us in to the courtyard and introduced us. Then I handed out
friendship bracelets that my friends and I had made. All the children were so
excited to get a new bracelet that they all hid their hands behind their back in an
attempt to get another one. After that, we got a tour of the orphanage and were
able to see the baby room. I was able to love on some little babies before it was
time to leave. Enrika showed me that I have a lot to be thankful for.
On my trip, I also got to visit the Telema Center. It was one of my favorite
places that I was able to go because they were making beautiful and amazing
items there. There were handbags, aprons, dolls, beaded snakes and lizard and
so much more that was all made by hand. I thought it was very amazing that the
women were using sewing machines powered by their hands. In addition,
everyone was so kind and friendly.
Through my visit, God showed me that just because Im younger and not as experienced doesnt mean that God
cant use me. Simple things like a friendship bracelet can change a childs day. I have so much to be thankful
for. Now, I help sponsor two children. We are continuing to make bracelets, and I know that someday I will be
able to go back! I hope people will realize that Congo is a beautiful place.

A New Friendship by Joy McDaniel

I went to Congo in August. The first person I met was Miss Rose. I stayed with
Miss Rose outside the airport while my mom and Nana got our luggage. The
next day, Mom, Nana, and I went to go to pick up my brother Fabi to bring him
home. A few days later, Miss Rose took us to an orphanage called Matumaini.
When we got there, they sang us a song. Then, we brought coloring pages and
colored pictures with them. This was my first orphanage to visit, and I thought
it was a good place because they were well taken care of and they had a good
place to sleep and live. One of the girls named Nelly saw me and wanted to be
my friend, but it was hard because we didnt speak the same language. Even
though we didnt speak the same language, Nelly showed me around the
orphanage, and we colored pictures together. God used that experience to care
for her. Now I sponsor her for her school, and I have her picture hanging in my
room. I got to pick out items to put in a care package that was delivered to her
at Christmas. Every night, I look at her picture, and I pray for her.

15

Hope In The Rain Forest by Deo Yenyi

The Democratic Republic of Congo is a country of
majestic rivers and wonderful hills. A place with
lakes, and where the powerful Congo River runs
through with elegance is also home to the second
largest forest in the world. The province of Equateur,
in the northern part of the Democratic Republic of
Congo, houses most of the forest.

This is where one of Mwangazas

most exciting stories of 2013 came from.

It began with an email, a request for

help. Through the vaccination
process, the Pygmies had heard
about
Mwangazas
education
program. They wanted to educate
their children as well. A pastor who
is known for his outreach to the
Pygmies shared the request with a
Mwangaza delegate in Gemena.
We quickly realized that it was not
just another request. This was a
matter of survival for the Pygmies.
Their inability to read had caused
them to be taken advantage of.
Pygmies are the most marginalized
group in the Congo. They are looked
down upon and discriminated
against by all groups. They have lost
everything and the forest is all that
they have left.
An expedition was put together to go
from Gemena to Libenge, and then
to the forest in order to identify the
10 children who would be the first
ones to learn how to read and write
in their community. The program
started with some skepticism from
the leaders of the community
because they were used to NGOs
promising and not following up.

16

We have now almost completed the first school year for them. We have made Christmas special for the
kids. Our teams have spent days stuck in the mud to show them the love of Christ. The community has
requested to add more children next school year.

We are eager to
take on the challenge,
knowing that all
our friends will back
us as we bring
HOP E
into the rain forest.

Spotlight: Telema Store by Deo Yenyi

The ladies of Telema in Kinshasa
keep raising the bar. This year the
items presented at the womens
fair were sponsored by the United
Nations and the Congolese
government. Our products were
highlighted in several Congolese
media and many people stopped by
the booth to purchase items and
support the work of Mwangaza
with those who suffer from mental
illness.

Items may be purchased at

www.Mwangazaint.org

17

She Is A Shining Light:

Interview with Ange

Ange is a friend of Mwangaza living in the Netherlands.
She was born in Congo, and she understands what it
means to grow up in Kinshasa. When Ange saw the
pictures on Mwangaza's Facebook, she responded with
action. She shipped a care package that the children at
the Bakole and the Kalembe Lembe Pediatric Hospital
still enjoy. We chose her for our friend interview this
year.
Mwangaza: How did you find out about Mwangaza?

Ange: In 2012, I noticed a post from Mwangaza

International on a friends page. I liked what Mwangaza is doing for children.
Mwangaza: What inspires you to help others?

Ange: First of all, my Christian faith calls me to respond to the needs of others. Second, my love for the
little children calls me to action on their behalf. When I have the means to help, I do my best to help.
Mwangaza: How do you feel when you see the children in Kinshasa happy because of the things you
sent them?

Ange: There is more joy to give than to receive. I know that we cannot erase their pain at once, but if we
can make their lives easier or bring the love they need, then we have accomplished something.
Mwangaza: A word for Mwangaza?

Ange: The Bible says that someday there will be neither pain nor death. There will be no suffering.
Nobody will say I am sick. God will wipe away our tears. I encourage you to continue what you are doing.
Do your best, and God will take care of the rest.

18

Miracle Garden
by Deo Yenyi
Kisenso, one of the 24 communes of Kinshasa,
is known for its extreme poverty. This is
where gang violence meets lack of all basic
utilities. This is where the slums of Kinshasa
are. It is even said that people in Kisenso live
in another republic. In the midst of what could
be called a disaster and a place of despair is a
place where fresh air blows and the fresh
breeze dances through the beautiful sight of a 2
acre land.

Mwangaza helped 30 men and women acquire and

develop a garden in Kisenso. The project is
ambitious. The women and men receive a grant to
turn their garden into a business success. With
$150, they are able to position their products better
in the market. Some others like Maman Philo have
diversified their product offerings by adding
toiletries and other basic necessity items to what
they offer in the market. This place that was a
dump is now the launching pad for men and women
who want a different life.

They have a different life because

they have been given the chance;
because someone realized that
investing in them is a noble cause.
19

Making Christmas Memorable

by Deo Yenyi

The Christmas Project is our oldest project. In fact it is the project that got us started on our journey to
changing Congo one little thing at a time. This year was very special. The theme we chose was
Christmas memories. We wanted to have a day that children would remember.
Indeed children in Kinshasa, Gemena, Bukavu, Goma, Masisi, Uvira and Lubumbashi will remember
this Christmas. One particularity this year is that we have had a special ceremony to start this
memorable Christmas. In Kinshasa, friends and family came to celebrate with us. Our choir performed
as well as musicians connected to the organization. We also held our first in-country fundraiser. One of
the main local companies sponsored the Christmas project with food for all our orphanages. The hope
and joy of Christmas was spread throughout the DRC.

We are excited for next year as it coincides with Mwangazas 10th year anniversary.

20

Help Needed at the Kalembe Lembe Pediatric Hospital

by Esther Nzau

We are a pediatric Hospital owned by the Congolese

government but managed by the Congolese Red Cross. The
assets belong to the DRC government. The quality of care and
services has significantly increased since management was
handed to the Red Cross.
The Belgian Red Cross and the Red Cross of Luxemburg used
to provide a fund to help patients unable to pay for the care. We
truly are a philanthropic hospital. The Belgian and Luxemburg
Red Cross fund provided $2000 each month to cover the
health care needs of those who were underprivileged.
Our hospital has a staff of 236 people. We have 24 doctors, 6 of
them are specialists. We have 97 nurses, 12 biologists, 2
physical therapists and 4 administrators. We provide services to
newborns, child surgeries. We also have an infectious disease
unit, a lab and intensive care. This is a brief presentation of the
Kalembe-lembe pediatric hospital. We are a childrens hospital.
We are the only hospital in the central African region solely
dedicated to children.
Other hospitals have a pediatric unit but we are the only one
dedicated to children. We do our best despite the difficulties we
face. We have been working with the NGO Mwangaza. They
came alongside us to help. They help pay for those who are
underprivileged. They provide food and clothing as well. They
are doing what they can to assist us.
They also have difficulties raising the necessary funds to keep
this program going. Their goal is to help us rebuild the fund we
had for underprivileged children. They have been seeking help
everywhere to accomplish that. Meanwhile, we are doing our
best with the little they provide.

Our hospital sees 2,000 patients each month. We have 800 to

1,000 patients admitted in intensive care. We see 80 to 110 children each day for emergencies. This is the
presentation of our hospital in Kinshasa, DRC. Daily we receive patients who are destitute. We feel powerless
trying to help them. This is why we partnered with Mwangaza,
together we want to help underprivileged children receive proper
care at the hospital. Mwangaza is seeking partners who can join
them and support this noble cause.

Appeal: Our Luke Fund is in desperate need of funds.

We need your help as we rescue families
that are kept at the hospital.
Help us make a difference in their lives
by donating on our website or by
returning the enclosed response card.
21

I Am The Clay by Grace Mbuthia

The inadequacies of the heart can only be lled by something greater than our own imagination.
Money, luxury, and all these worldly pleasures can satisfy but a moment. However, there is a longing
from deep within, a longing for a deeper purpose, something meaningful in our lives. Something that
gives divine pleasure and satisfaction beyond our human comprehension. That to me is giving and
service to others.
I am blessed to have been
brought up in a home full
of joy, laughter, love, and
peace. Of course there
have been trying times,
hard times, tears shed,
mistakes made and lessons
learnt. All in all, since I
stepped foot into this
world, I have been taught
how to love, how to serve
and give to others. It is
second nature to me.
However, growing up, I
did not know I was being
prepared to open my heart
to show love to thousands
of people. To strangers. To victims of war. To the sick. To people from all walks of life. My
experiences since birth up to now have been orchestrated and all have a meaning. Even being
hospitalized countless times and going through extensive medical tests and seeing too many doctors
than I would have cared to. All these experiences have shaped me. They have molded my view of life
and it's purpose thereof.
When I came to the U.S on July 5, 2005, life changed. I had a new normal. In that new normal, I met
Tresor Yenyi through my dad. Here was this Congolese man whose English was not the greatest who
would sometimes talk to me in French or Lingala and I would answer back in Swahili. In that new
normal, seeing other Africans became a treat, especially in Joplin, Missouri. Having said that, the
international community in Joplin was close and soon I got to learn more about Tresor, his vision and
his dreams.
Soon I became his volunteer secretary
for Mwangaza International. Flash
forward to today, I serve as his Vice
President and Mwangaza has been a
blessing to thousands in the DRC and
elsewhere. But it all started with a
willing heart. It was denitely
challenging in the beginning but I can
boldly testify that faith can move and
has moved mountains.

22

In the beginning of 2011, the was a stir in my spirit. I had already been hospitalized too many times
here in the U.S but none of the doctors could gure what was going on in my body. I remembered the
rst time the Canadian cardiologist took me under his care and went above and beyond his duty. My
heart yearned to do the same to others and I felt compelled to organize a medical team to go back to my
hometown of Nakuru, Kenya and do exactly that.
It is in that willingness to obey that still small voice that in the summer of 2012, I founded Neema-M
Initiative. That summer, more than 2,500 people received free medical care and medication in my
hometown of Nakuru, Kenya. I did not have the know-how or past experience to lean onto. However,
there was a pulling in my heart and this dream of offering free medical care became a reality. I watched
God literally move mountains, from the funding of Neema-M Initiative to the connections I made with
people.
I could write a book about the miracles I have experienced and the amazing people I have met.
However, I know there is still more work to be done and people to love on. It only takes a willing heart.
There will always be people who discourage you and people who do not believe in you. Do not lose
hope.
Someone once told me, "dream big, and when you think you have dreamt big enough, dream even
bigger because even your biggest or wildest dream does not compare to the plan and purpose that God
has for you." Your biggest dream for yourself is only but a grain of sand compared to the destiny God
has for you. I know I have not even touched the apex of my potential. There is more to do, and I cannot
wait to be of service to many around the world. In that service, I nd joy. I am blessed to have people
who are walking with me on this journey.
If there is any double guessing as to whether you are capable of doing something, my answer is: as
long as you can breath, you are God's clay. He is the potter. Let him mold you to what you were born
to be. As mother Teresa once said,

"I am but a pencil in the hand of a writing God,

sending a love letter to the world."

In His Service,
Grace W Mbuthia.

Mwangaza International
PO Box 4382
Joplin, MO 64803-4382
Email: mwangazaint@gmail.com
Phone: 417-893-0343
Website: www.Mwangazaint.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MwangazaInternational
Twitter: @mwangazaint - Youtube: Mwangazaint

23