The Society of African Missions (SMA), through the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Mission in Zimmi, Sierra Leone, is undertaking a major educational project: the construction of four new classroom blocks at St Martin’s Primary School, located in Makpele Chiefdom, Pujehun District.
The mission of Zimmi is entrusted to the SMA by the Catholic Bishop of Bo. It is a mission of primary evangelization in a predominantly Muslim region, serving four chiefdoms with a combined population of over 200,000 people. Education remains one of the most effective tools for both human development and faith presence in this context.
St Martin’s Primary School is currently the most populated school in the entire Makpele Chiefdom, with between 800 and 1,000 pupils enrolled each year. The school also includes a pre-school section of over 100 children and supports a newly established Catholic secondary school, which is temporarily operating from rented facilities. Unfortunately, the existing infrastructure is grossly inadequate: overcrowded classrooms, dilapidated buildings dating back to before the civil war.
The construction of four modern classroom blocks will directly address these challenges. The project aims to:
- Reduce overcrowding and improve the learning environment
- Provide safe, durable, and weather-resistant classrooms
- Create space for pre-school classes to function properly
- Offer a multipurpose hall that will serve as a place for community meetings in view of alphabetization (adult education)
- Temporarily accommodate students of the new secondary school
More than 1,000 children and community members, regardless of religion, gender, or social background, will benefit directly from this project.
The initiative is led locally by Rev. Fr. Tongshinen Damian Goteng, SMA, Priest in Charge of Zimmi Mission and Delegate Superior of Sierra Leone, in close collaboration with the Parish Pastoral Council, the School Management Committee, the Community Teachers’ Association, and the wider Zimmi community. Community ownership is a key strength of the project, with local participation through labor, planning, and long-term maintenance strategies.
Construction is scheduled to run from April to November/December 2026, with the inauguration planned for December 2026. Beyond buildings, this project represents a lasting investment in education and other social development in a region where such opportunities are urgently needed.
PACEM ETS is championing this initiative for the growth of the community of Zimmi.
The building is estimated to cost €35,850
With your donation we can achieve this.
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