Relieving the Hunger in Africa

At this time of year it is even more appropriate than usual that we focus on our core commitment as Lions -- to provide hands-on service to those in need. One of the best ways we can do this is by participating in Relieving the Hunger, the Global Service Action Campaign taking place now through the end of January. Here in Africa, we see the face of hunger more clearly than those in many other parts of the world. We see it in the calamitous famines that have afflicted parts of our continent and we see it in the faces of hungry children in our own communities. At this time of year, when so many people are celebrating holidays, it is especially difficult to be without enough food to eat. The message of joy in all of this is that we, the 20,000 Lions of Africa, can do something about it. All we need do is believe that we can make a difference and act accordingly. The close of one year and beginning of another is also an especially good time to rejoice in our accomplishments, reflect on what we might have been done better and make our plans for the future. For a Lions Club, this may include conducting a community needs assessment to identify areas of special need and to make sure that our clubs' service projects are relevant and effective. Be sure to use the Service Activity Report to report on service projects. Doing these things will help to make Africa -- our Africa -- a better, happier place. They will also help the Lions of Africa grow in size and status so that we may do even more and better service in the years to come. We wish you happiness, peace, prosperity and a year of fruitful service in 2012. Sincerely, The Africa Steering Committee, PID Manoj Shah, Kenya, Chair PID HOB Lawal, Nigeria PDG Ali Habour, Algeria PDG Hastings Chiti, Zambia PDG Norbert Bationo, Burkina Faso PDG Robert Fowler, South Africa PCC Alexis Vincent Gomes, Republic of Congo IPDG Abdou Moukite, Morocco PCC Rajinder Sembi, Kenya