german
frenchOpening of the orphanage in Diébougou
Between 2001 and 2003 an eye clinic could be established in Diébougou with the help of the German Ministry for Development and the aa/D - department Wiesbaden. The sponsorship was with the local diocese. Since no local eye doctor was available, the retired eye doctor Dr. Ulrich Schum used to carry out surgeries since 2002, sometimes several times a year, until a local eye doctor could take over the eye clinic.
During this time, Dr. Schum learnt about the misery of many children, who are forced to live on the streets. Realizing their hopeless situation, he decided to offer a second chance to at least some of the homeless children. Together with his wife Inge Borchardt-Schum he founded the association "Assistance Humanitaire". They were given a piece of land by the community and started to build an orphanage for about 35 children. A family foundation contributed the majority of financial means needed.
Finally, on January 23, 2010, the orphanage was officially dedicated by a blessing from the bishop of the diocese Diébougou Excellence Monseigneur Kusiele Dabiré.
In Africa, an opening is always a big feast and a lot of people are invited and need to be catered for. But considering the dramatic consequences of the latest flood, Schum decided to use the money, that had been reserved for the opening feast, for a warm meal for the hungry population. Thus, an Open Day was organized with food and drinks for the poor. A total of 550 meals was distributed within close to four hours, accompanied by drinks that were rich in vitamins.
The next day, the doors were opened for the first orphans. It was an important and exciting day, because everything was completely new for the new inhabitants, for example the running water, showers, sinks and toilets with a flush, having a bed for oneself and one's own plate.
During their education, the children will live and be cared for in the orphanage. After school, they will be able to attend a school for secondary education or start professional training. They also have their own garden for growing vegetables and a chicken farm, so that they can take care of some of their basic needs and be introduced to self-inititive and healthy food.
Currently a pickup-car is being shipped to Accra/Ghana, to be transported by road to Diébougou. It will serve the orphanage as a means of transport.
For 15 years, Dr. Schum and his wife will continue to be responsible for the "Assistance Humanitaire". After that, the community will take over the orphanage. This is why Dr. Schum and his wife are asking for donations.
For further information:
www.assistance-humanitaire.de