African Community Project

Mileka Community School is located in Chief Sandwe's chiefdom, in Petauke District Eastern Province, Zambia. There are over 114 pupils attending this small school of which there are 20 orphans and few girls, because of early marriage. When I first visited the school in 2003, it was in shambles, the teacher had left after not being paid for some time and the schools roof had caved in. The community asked if there was something, I could do. Therefore, it was agreed that when I returned, if they, the community had made an effort to restart the school, I would help. On November 4, 2004, I returned to find the schools roof repaired and classes were being held. They were very proud of what they had accomplished; they had even started to kiln bricks for a more permanent structure. I had a very good meeting with the newly formed PTA and meeting the new teacher (third from right in photo), it was agreed that I would pay the teacher, Maurice Mwale, 100,000 Kwacha per month or $20.00 US. In addition, when I returned to Petauke I bought a new chalkboard and arranged for the District Health vehicle to deliver it. Also, before I left I told them I would do my best to bring them some bags of cement, when I returned in 2005. The foundation for the school will take 50 bags of cement at the cost of $10.00 per bag, plus delivery. So, for $500.00 US you can become a partner in this community school or for $8000.00 US you can build this one room school. The community will supply all the labor; the kiln fired bricks and the sand and gravel used in the construction. What they need is the cement, roof trusses, tin roofing, nails and hardware, a door in a frame and window frames. Options include the teacher's salary and supplies; remember they still do not have desks or books.

LOCATION: Petauke District, Eastern Province, Zambia

COST: $8,000.00 USD

PLEASE NOTE: This cost is for the complete project, smaller donations can be credited to the project of your choice and you become a partner in that project.

Mileka School when I visited it in December 2003

Inside the classroom

Outside the same school on November 4, 2004

Inside the classroom

By 2005, the community had kilned the bricks to start the school