On August 2024, we celebrated 30 years of commitment to the most vulnerable communities in southern Sofala Province. The event, held at “Hotel Moçambique” in Beira, brought together key figures from the provincial government, the city council, the archbishop of Beira, as well as organizations, partners, collaborators, and associates. This milestone was not only a celebration of 3 decades of hard work, but also an opportunity for ESMABAMA to reflect on the challenges and successes of its journey.
In what context did we start working in the missions?
Impact of the Literacy Centre classes
Father Ottorino presiding at Mass in the missions in the early years of ESMABAMA
During Mozambique’s civil war, much of the country’s infrastructure was destroyed, many lives were lost, and despair spread. As a result, living conditions became extremely difficult, with people lacking essential resources for survival. In response, ESMABAMA began working to restore dignity to the people of southern Sofala through education, healthcare, and agricultural support. By focusing on these areas, ESMABAMA has helped bring back hope and joy, improving the quality of life and creating a brighter future for rural communities.
Speeches and presentations at the event
Dom Cláudio – Archbishop of Beira introducing the event and making the opening prayer
Over the past 30 years, ESMABAMA has become a vital force for change in the rural regions of southern Sofala. Since its founding, the organisation has promoted human and community development through innovative projects in education, healthcare, and agriculture.
Pietro Ferlito, ESMABAMA’s executive director, presenting ESMABAMA’s initial and current context
During the event, Executive Director Pietro Ferlito highlighted the progress made in these areas but also noted that financial challenges persist in continuing to support the people of southern Sofala.
Eduardo Macário – representative of the Secretary of State Cecília Chamutota
Representing Secretary of State Cecília Chamutota, Eduardo Macário praised ESMABAMA’s work in rural areas, stating that the organisation’s efforts “make it a key partner”. He also mentioned, “ESMABAMA’s work reflects moral and ethical values by ensuring inclusive education, which is highly important to the provincial government. We are here to acknowledge their commitment and encourage them to continue their valuable work.”
Dilza Solange, Provincial Director of Education in Sofala, representive of Governor Lourenço Bulha
Provincial Director of Education in Sofala, Dilza Solange, representing Governor Lourenço Bulha, emphasised the importance of ESMABAMA’s contributions to rural communities. She said, “Over these 30 years, the government of Sofala has witnessed the challenges faced by ESMABAMA and its resilience. We have also seen many successes“. Some of these successes are students graduating, patients healed, and hunger reduced.
On the left, Manuel Mussanema when he was studying in Mangunde and on the right Mussanema in his current position – Councillor for Youth and Sport in Beira Municipality
Manuel Mussanema, Councillor for Youth and Sport in Beira Municipality, representing Mayor Albano Carige, the president of municipal council, also acknowledged ESMABAMA’s impact on community development. He shared his personal story, saying, “I am a product of ESMABAMA. I had the chance to study at the Mangunde mission, and without ESMABAMA, I might not have had that opportunity. Many others in different roles have also benefited from their support, for which I am very grateful.” Manuel Mussanema studied at the mission in Mangunde between 2000 and 2006 and attended classes 6 to 12.
During the event, the heads of the education, health, agro-livestock and communication sectors made presentations on the main activities, successes and challenges. Also testifying to ESMABAMA’s work was the former headmaster of Santo António de Barada Secondary School, Augusto Marques Júnior, who ran the school for around 20 years. In his speech, he emphasised the need for ESMABAMA’s intervention in Barada, especially in the education sector. The director of the Mangunde health centre also testified and mentioned the revolution that ESMABAMA had brought about in Mangunde, making the health centre a benchmark in the Chibabava district.
From left to right: Joaquim Moiana – responsible for the agriculture sector, Paulo Crimi – responsible for the health sector, Armando Chaua – responsible for the education sector, Augusto Marques – mission focal point and Marjú Changanja – responsible for the communication department.
The event was praised for its excellent organisation and clear presentations. On this occasion, we also had cultural performances, including dance, theatre and poetry, that highlighted the impact of ESMABAMA’s work. The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. The gathering renewed hopes for future partnerships and support for ESMABAMA, which, with a clear mission and proven impact, looks forward to a bright future.
