Over 500 million people live below poverty threshold. In Africa, 35 million children do not go to school. Over 300 million people have no access to drinking water. In Africa there are more than 3.000 ethnic groups and more that 1.500 languages are spoken. But, besides this, there is a truth that Salesians know very well: half of its population is under 25 years of age.
Africa is much more than poverty and lack of opportunities. Its young population and its natural resources turn it into a world power, something that combined with the cheerful and optimistic character of its population puts no limits to its potential development and growth.
Don Bosco’s missionary dream has become a reality in Africa in 42 countries, with about 1.300 missionaries and 200 presences. Ever since the Salesians arrived in Tunisia, in 1894, their presence has extended, through education, all over Africa. With more than 200 schools among primary and secondary institutes, universities and vocational centres, the Salesians are engaged in improving the quality of life of thousands of children, teenagers and youth and of their families, through a human formation that will allow them to have more opportunities in future and to come out of the cycle of poverty.
Africa has many challenges to face, but is has a great strength: the youth. They are the ones that will change the face of Africa.
