CLIMATE change, which has made some previously cold areas to experience heat for nearly the entire year, has prompted the Moravian Church Makandana Parish in Tukuyu, Rungwe District, Mbeya Region, to construct a new church building.

CLIMATE change, which has made some previously cold areas to experience heat for nearly the entire year, has prompted the Moravian Church Makandana Parish in Tukuyu, Rungwe District, Mbeya Region, to construct a new church building.

Pastor Oswald Kajela of the church shared this during an interview after the celebration of their 30th Jubilee, an event that coincided with a fundraising drive for the new construction. 

He explained that among the activities organized for the church's 30th anniversary were the fundraiser and a thanksgiving service for congregants and families who donated the land. The funds raised will be used for the new church building.

"This church, this parish, has been serving all the villages in Makandana and around the hospital area since its establishment. Currently, it's not large enough for the growing number of people. But also, there's climate change; it's hot globally now," he stated.

He elaborated that the design of the old building, with its small and few windows, was suitable decades ago when Tukuyu, experienced cold weather year-round. "Now it's hot here too," he added.

Pastor Kajela mentioned that the church commemorates 30 years since the official arrival of its first pastor, Ernest Mwakasege, father of renowned preacher Christopher Mwakasege.

He further stated that approximately 694m/- is needed to complete the construction. Initial steps have begun, and they anticipate a two-storey church building that is suitable for the current times.

Pastor Kajela reported that during the fundraising event held on July 13th, 19m/- in cash was collected, along with pledges amounting to 23.5m/-. He noted that once all pledges are fulfilled, a total of 42.5m/- will be available.

"Tanzanians, especially those who love development, are reminded to contribute to social activities in their home areas. We remember that this land was donated by Jesaya Mwakangale and Ross Mwaikambo, and this generation now uses it for worship," he said.

"Even those in urban areas who feel they have succeeded should remember to contribute to places of worship so that blessings may return to them where they seek their livelihoods."