Where:
Where:Angola – Quibala
Target audience:
Target audience:Children who do not have access to education
Background
Angola still bears the scars of the civil war that, from 1975 to 2002, claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, displaced millions of people, and destroyed essential infrastructure. Among these were more than 1,500 schools—a legacy that continues to weigh heavily on future generations. Today, approximately 3.8 million children and adolescents lack access to education.
In Quibala (Kibala), a rural town with a population of about 175,000, there are only three schools. For many families, sending their children to school is still an unattainable goal. Rebuilding the country also means giving young people back the chance to learn and choose their own future.
Friars in Angola
The first three Friars Minor, from Brazil, arrived in Angola in 1990, during the civil war. The first fraternity was established in Quibala, thanks to the dedication of Friar Plínio Gande (pictured), a missionary who worked closely with families affected by hunger, disease, and poverty.
Since then, the Franciscans have remained there: they reach out to the most isolated villages, promote literacy, and guide young people in their formation. Today, the Custody of the Immaculate Mother of God in Angola has 93 friars—including 14 priests—spread across seven fraternities in five cities. Their mission combines the proclamation of the Gospel with concrete service to the communities.
A School for a Thousand Children
In Quibala, next to the Franciscan novitiate, the “Fra Plínio Gande” school is being built, dedicated to the missionary who shared in the suffering of the Angolan people for many years.
Its 14 classrooms will be able to accommodate 1,050 middle school students, providing an opportunity for those who are currently unable to attend school.
Begun in August 2025, the structural work has been completed: to open the school, the painting, suspended ceilings, electrical system, lighting, and furnishings still need to be installed. We need 50,000 euros to finish the work and transform an existing building into a vibrant place where students can learn, grow, and look toward the future.
Donate now
Your donation will help fund the completion of the Fra Plinio Gande School in Angola