President visits Irish Church aid projects in Africa

Praise given to work and legacy of Irish missionaries and aid workers

President Michael D. Higgins has said he wishes to “recognise the immense contribution that Irish missionaries have made in Africa” as part of a three-week state visit to three countries on the continent.

President Higgins began a tour of Ethiopia, Malawi and South Africa this week, with a visit to the Women in Sustainable Employment (WISE) project in Addis Ababa, which is supported by Trócaire, the Church’s overseas aid agency. WISE aims to develop and support local, home-based production and trading businesses to help lift families out of poverty.

Difference

Trócaire’s Country Director in Ethiopia, Patricia Wall, said the agency was “delighted” to welcome President Higgins, his wife Sabina and Minister for State Sean Sherlock to “see the difference support from Ireland makes to the lives of people in Ethiopia”.

President Higgins also visited nutrition centres in refugee camps supported by Concern and Goal, and an eye clinic operated by the Daughters of Charity.

Speaking about the trip President Higgins said Ireland has a strong reputation in Africa and the visit will “recognise the immense contribution that Irish Aid, Irish aid agencies and workers and missionaries have made in Africa”.