Older women especially, but also many younger ones, have never had the opportunity to learn to read and write, particularly in Rwanda and in North-eastern Congo. Eliminating illiteracy is important because it allows this group to read the Bible, as well as read manuals about gardening and agriculture. They also learn to count in order to function more effectively in society and to be able to take care of their families.

This work in the villages requires a lot of travelling on bad roads. We are grateful for the two brothers, Mangwasi and Malisawa, who teach reading and writing in neighbouring villages every day. Each lesson starts with a gospel message and then individuals and children learn to read, write and count. Brother Mangwasi also teaches how to read and write in the Pygmy village of Kazaroho, one of their six different settlements nearby the BCC in Mputu, from half past six till eight o’clock in the morning. The young pupils pay attention, follow the teaching with joy and make good progress.