What's Happened Since the Volcano Erupted?
The year 2021 has been difficult for many countries around the world and many are looking to 2022 with hope for peace and good health. However, some countries, like D.R. Congo, had a more difficult year. In the midst of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, on May 22, 2021, the Nyiragongo volcano — one of the most active volcanos in the world — began erupting. Located just 12 kilometres from the city of Goma, the volcano’s lava flow crept towards the town coming within 500 metres of Goma International Airport before stopping just short of the city’s built up area. Hundreds of thousands of people evacuated the city because of the dire situation, before eventually returning to start rebuilding what was lost.
In response to this volcanic eruption, FAIR sent out an emergency appeal inviting people and Fellowship churches to support the people of Goma through this crisis. Over $13,000 was raised and together with what Tearfund Canada (FAIR’s partner) raised, 2,804 individuals, representing 400 households, received aid. The community and church in Goma continue to do what it can to rebuild after so much devastation.
What was distributed?
• Food: 600 kg of beans, 600 kg of rice, 800 litres of oil, 40 kg of salt
• Water: five trucks of water, two water tanks of 5m3 each
• Clothing and supplies: 800 blankets, children's clothing, 400 hygiene kits for women, 400 kits of kitchen utensils, and 1,200 face masks (COVID 19)
• Fuel: 400 jerrycans.
How can you pray?
• Pray that the people of Goma will find their hope in Jesus; pray that they will feel the encouragement and support of Christians from around the world.
• Pray for wisdom for Fellowship International missionaries, Apollo and Lois Midigo, as they continue to provide support and coaching to church leaders all over the city during this time of rebuilding.
Thank you for your generosity and prayers to support these families.