By Ibrahim Sesay
Partnering to Serve Humanity Consortium, which includes Caritas Freetown, Healey International Relief Foundation, Tzu Chi Foundation and. LANYI Foundation, has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities through a rice distribution event. The event, which was an interfaith dialogue, held at the Negus/Negas Complex brought together faith leaders, a Government representative and community members.
The theme of the event was centered around spiritual growth, compassion and peace building.
Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, President of the Interreligious Council, expressed gratitude to the Tzu Chi Foundation for their continued partnership in aiding those in need. “I want to thank all those who are present because they’re helping us help others. All religions emphasize love of God and love of neighbor,” he said, urging beneficiaries to extend support to others in need.
Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh, Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, highlighted the relationship with Tzu Chi, which has been going on for a decade. “This distribution has been going on for eight years and next February we will celebrate our ten-year partnership with a delegation to Taiwan,” he revealed. Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh also emphasized the importance of empowering local farmers to produce rice for future distributions to enhance the local economy.
The interfaith dialogue underscored the importance of inclusivity, with Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh commending the involvement of Rastafarian representatives in the interfaith dialogue. “Their inclusion has helped us understand the Rastafarian faith better,” he said.Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh also commented on the collective position of faith leaders against the abortion bill currently being debated, describing it as a moral issue that requires unity among religious leaders.
Sheikh Fomba Swaray echoed these sentiments, criticizing the term “safe abortion” as paradoxical. “Every religion stresses the preservation of human life and this bill contradicts that belief,” he said, adding that the Interreligious Council has submitted its position to parliament.
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare ,Mohamed Haji-Kella, acknowledged the strong arguments presented by religious leaders while emphasizing the importance of interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance. “Cabinet brings together diverse voices to create a balanced position on the bill, which is then handed to Parliament for consideration,” he stated.
A key highlight of the event was the gratitude expressed by beneficiaries. Mariama Sillah, one of the recipients, said, “In hard times like this, receiving this rice will help me and my family during this festive period. I want to thank Caritas for this support.”
The distribution event showed the spirit of collaboration and compassion, showcasing the importance of unity across faiths and communities.
