Badagry clinic project needs final funding boost

Dec 11 2009 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A SCHOOL project to build a health clinic in Aids plagued Africa needs a final boost.

Tens of thousands of pounds has been raised and the clinic in Badagry, Nigeria is nearing completion.

But the last £20,000 is desperately needed to put the finishing touches to the building and get the facility up and running.

The project was started two years ago by a group of big-hearted Queen Margaret Academy pupils.

Now the teenagers have finished school but are continuing to work together to see the project through to the end.

Daniella Mancini explained: “Anyone able to can donate £20 and will receive a gift card in their name which will enable the completion of the hospital.

“Anything left over would help to purchase badly needed equipment such as incubators.

“We are hoping also to provide a small outside kitchen and shelter where food will be given daily so the street children and orphans will always receive food and medical care when needed.

“This could be funded by people setting up a standing order and giving a £2 per month donation.”

The nearest hospital to the clinic is three hours away. It will be used as a maternity clinic with a labour room and facilities to treat children with Malaria and Aids.

But what started out as a fundraising project for the group, has quickly become a life-changing experience.

Eleven of the teenagers went to Badagry last year to see first hand how urgent the clinic is needed.

Daniella added: “Sister Louise is heading back to Badagry in February next year and hopefully by that time the clinic will be up and running.

“I am holding a pamper night some time in February and am hoping with the support of my friends it will be as successful and past events.”

Donations can be made by cheque (Badagry Clinic Appeal) or a standing order can be set up by contacting Sr Louise on 01292 475016.