The inauguration of the B.L. Tezza School Complex was the first major event in the Migori District to showcase an educational programme designed specifically for orphaned children.
The large number of guests, who came from a wide range of backgrounds and locations, together with the strong participation of members and representatives of the local community, made the occasion particularly significant.
The Camillian Community, as host and sponsor of B.L. Tezza School, was well represented and led the celebrations with enthusiasm and professionalism.
The inauguration day began at 11 a.m. with Holy Mass celebrated in the school courtyard by Fr Paolo Guarise, the Camillian Delegate in Kenya, assisted by Fr Alessandro Viganò, Superior of the Camillian Community in Karungu, and Fr Emilio Balliana, Director of the Dala Kiye Programme.
The celebration was enriched by traditional African songs and dances, performed to the rhythm of drums by the many people of Karungu who had gathered for Mass, together with the school’s teachers and children.
During his homily, Fr Paolo spoke about the life and mission of Blessed Luigi Tezza, a Camillian priest to whom the school is dedicated. He emphasised the importance of active participation and involvement by the local community, highlighting the need for cooperation between the Camillian Community and the people of Karungu in caring for and supporting orphaned children, guided by the Word of God.
Following Mass, the celebrations came alive as the children entertained the guests with songs, dances and performances before the official speeches began. They gave their very best to celebrate the opening of a school they had long hoped and waited for.
The first address was delivered by Fr Emilio, who, as host of the inauguration, highlighted the Camillians’ commitment to improving the quality of life of orphaned children in the Karungu area.
He thanked the local community and acknowledged the many distinguished guests attending the ceremony, including district representatives from the education and social services departments, local and provincial authorities, two national politicians, headteachers from primary and secondary schools in the Karungu district, the school’s teachers, Dala Kiye Centre staff, guardians, members of the surrounding community and, of course, the children themselves.
The ceremony continued with an address by the guest of honour, Fr Luca Perletti, General Consultor of the Camillian Order, who was visiting Kenya from Italy.
He encouraged the local community to take shared responsibility for orphaned children, protect their rights and work together to meet their needs.
In response, local leaders pledged their cooperation and support in ensuring the safety and security of the Camillian Community. They also expressed their gratitude for the continued work and services provided by the Camillians to the people of Karungu.
At 3 p.m., the celebrations moved to the nearby Dala Kiye Centre, where lunch was served to all the guests.
Before the day came to an end, the children once again delighted the audience with songs, theatrical performances, music and a martial arts demonstration. A group of Maasai people working at the Mission also performed a traditional dance from their culture, adding a special touch to the festivities.
To conclude the celebrations, Fr Emilio took the opportunity to express his final thanks and appreciation to everyone involved. He acknowledged the dedication and contributions of all those who had helped make the inauguration such a success, before offering his blessing and bidding farewell to the participants.
