Caritas found profound inspiration in Paul VI’s encyclical Populorum Progressio, where the Pontiff stated that “development is the new name of peace”.
Address: Caritas Gabon, BP 2146, Gabon
Telephone: +241 07 55 33 51 Fax: +241 7 24 368
Email: caritas.gabon@yahoo.fr
In the 1950s assistance was provided to Gabon by Secours Catholique (Caritas France). Then in 1967, following the massive influx of refugees from the war in Biafra, the Episcopal Conference of Gabon decided to set up an organisation that could provide assistance to these displaced persons. Thus Caritas Gabon was born.
Established for more than 45 years, it now comprises 5 dioceses, an Apostolic Prefecture and around 80 parishes, which add up to a substantial and respected presence throughout the country.
The work of Caritas is focused on poverty reduction, particularly among the most vulnerable such as the elderly, refugees and street children. Its mission includes promotion of equality between men and women, provision of food and medical aid, and support for displaced persons, as well as fostering the well-being of the community and the health of all its members.
To this end Caritas runs two centres, one for street children who receive education until they are reintegrated within their families, and another that serves as a place of transit where children who have been victims of human trafficking can learn to read and write before returning to their countries of origin. Caritas also runs shops where medicines are available at affordable prices.
Regarding emergency aid and support to refugees and displaced persons, Caritas Gabon relies on volunteers and, in order to achieve its goals and best mobilise its efforts on behalf of the poor, it advocates via the media with messages from the bishops and consults various humanitarian organisations.
Caritas Gabon’s partners include: UNICEF, UNDP and the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Family.
Updates from Gabon
