Help Build A School In Rural Africa

Hi, my name is Dan Torsiello. I'm a high school world history teacher, coach, and avid world traveler. This past summer I visited the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, one of the most unstable regions in the world. I partnered with Christian and his guiding service Congo Local Guides, based out of Goma, DR Congo.

 

 

Christian presented me with an opportunity to donate food and visit with local orphanages in Goma. The children in these overcrowded orphanages are the victims of the ongoing Congolese rebel attacks, previous Ebola outbreaks, and eruptions from nearby Mount Nyiragongo. Through the generosity of family, friends, coworkers, and strangers, we were able to deliver much needed supplies to three orphanages: 882 pounds each of rice and maize flour, 441 pounds each of sugar and beans, and 80 liters of cooking oil.

 

 

 

Now Christian and I are looking to tackle a bigger problem. During my visit I went to the rural village of Mushaki, a frequent crossroads of rebel activity. There I was able to meet with local school children and their teacher, as well as visit their school. Below are some photographs of the school as well as a brief video of the children of Mushaki.

 

 

 

 

As you can see, what is currently being used as a school is hardly fit for instructions. With the help of local builders, Christian and I are hoping to build a modern wood and concrete school to replace the existing one. The school will feature six classrooms, two rooms for teachers, and four toilet rooms. The builders have given us an estimate of just over $8300 USD. Below you will find some preliminary drawings as well as estimated costs - I hope your French is better than mine! Our goal however is to raise $10,000 to account for any overages and unforeseen costs in construction. Any money that remains will be used to purchase school supplies for the teachers and students as well as provide for basic hygiene and clothing needs. We aim to have construction completed in November 2022 when I will be returning to the DR Congo during a school break.

 

 

 

 

Christian and I hope you consider helping to improve the lives and futures of the children of Mushaki, DRC.