News Release

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Builds a New Bridge in Kinshasa, DR Congo

Building bridges of charity

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints donated nearly $100,000 for the construction of a new bridge in the Kalamu neighborhood of Kinshasa, DR Congo. It will replace an unstable foot bridge that was damaged by recent torrential rains and will be capable of safely carrying vehicles of up to 10 tons. It will also provide better pedestrian access to communities and churches on both sides of the stream.

The Honorable Henriette Wamu, member of DR Congo’s National Parliament from Funa, presided over the ceremonial laying of the first brick on May 8, 2023. She said, “every time I have a large project to do, I knock on the door of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They welcomed us with open arms, and here is the result.” Her private foundation is contributing 10% of the costs of the project.

Eddy Matondo, Church Humanitarian Department site project manager, said, “Madame Wamu approached us not for herself but to help people in this community. We do lots of projects in collaboration with her. We in the Church do not hesitate to help those who ask for assistance.”

Projects such as this are made possible by generous donations of Church members around the world. They follow the Savior’s example of charity without regard to race, religion, or nationality.

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