The Saidi Shishombo Foundation for Development has donated a new presbytery to Sainte-Bakitha Parish in Irumu, Ituri Province. The foundation's president, Saidi Shishombo Mali, officially handed over the keys to the parish on September 30, 2026, in the presence of Bishop Uringi Uchi Dieudonné of the Bunia diocese. The event was attended by local authorities and a large number of Catholic faithful.
During the handover ceremony, Saidi Shishombo Mali praised the technical and spiritual involvement of the parish authorities, which enabled the completion of the project. He called on other leaders in the province to acknowledge God's blessings and express gratitude. The foundation's donation is seen as a significant contribution to the development of the parish and the local community.
Bishop Uringi Uchi Dieudonné led a solemn prayer, asking God to bless Saidi Shishombo Mali for his generosity and dedication to the community. The bishop emphasized the importance of the presbytery as a place of worship and spiritual growth. He also expressed his gratitude to the foundation for its support.
The handover ceremony was followed by a series of canonical celebrations, including the blessing of the presbytery, which took place in the evening. The next day, a large eucharistic celebration was held at the Josephine Makhita Parish, attended by numerous guests, including bishops from other dioceses, provincial authorities, and a large number of Catholic faithful.
The event was a significant milestone for the Sainte-Bakitha Parish and the local community, marking a new chapter in the parish's history. The presbytery is expected to serve as a hub for spiritual and social activities, promoting the development of the community. The Saidi Shishombo Foundation's donation is seen as a testament to the importance of collaboration between faith-based organizations and local communities.
The celebration was attended by prominent figures, including bishops from other dioceses, provincial authorities from Bunia, Beni, and Mambasa, and a large number of Catholic faithful from the Josephine BAKHITA Parish. The event demonstrated the strong ties between the Catholic Church and the local community, as well as the importance of faith-based initiatives in promoting development and social cohesion.
The Saidi Shishombo Foundation's donation is part of its broader mission to support development initiatives in the region. The foundation's efforts aim to promote social and economic development, improve living standards, and foster a sense of community among local populations. The new presbytery is expected to have a positive impact on the community, providing a modern and functional space for worship, education, and social activities.
Key points
- The Saidi Shishombo Foundation for Development has donated a new presbytery to Sainte-Bakitha Parish in Irumu, Ituri Province, Democratic Republic of Congo.
