From Dream to Reality: The Steady Rise of Jimma-Bonga Project
By Linus Tigiti, SJ
View, Capturing Memories, Road Construction and Development Journey of the School
Capturing Memories
A day of remembrance is consistently observed, serving as a poignant and enduring memorial in our collective memory. On the morning of July 23, 2024, we assembled for a commemorative photograph, intent on etching the day into the fabric of our recollections. The Bishop’s residence within the Jimma Bonga vicariate exuded an atmosphere of reverence and gratitude as we gathered for the photographic moment. Bishop Rodrigo, SJ, took the helm, guiding the group towards this momentous occasion with a sense of leadership and significance.
Road construction
In the year 2023, the commencement of construction on the Jesuit Community house in Bonga, Ethiopia was met with obstacles, particularly concerning the condition of the road. This impediment resulted in a temporary halt to the project for nearly two months, ultimately causing delays in the timely delivery of the community house. Presently, a collaborative effort between the government of Bonga and the government of Kaffa zone has been initiated to address the road infrastructure, aiming to facilitate the smooth transportation of materials and enhance accessibility to Obera, the project site.
Although progress has been made in improving the road, a new challenge has emerged with the availability of loaders and sino trucks for material transportation. Consequently, the completion of the bridge remains pending. The road becomes navigable during dry spells, yet becomes impassable during periods of rainfall. There is optimism that upon the road’s full completion, it will not only transform the local landscape into a rejuvenated urban environment but also stimulate increased vehicular activity, as numerous projects are anticipated to commence in the vicinity.
The Development Journey of the School
The journey towards establishing the school is underway, with progress unfolding gradually at the site. Survey data has been meticulously gathered, and the necessary site clearance has been completed. Our aspirations are set on inaugurating the school in September of the upcoming year, 2025. The school’s development has been delineated into distinct phases, with the initial phase encompassing the community house. Phases two and three present a more intricate challenge, potentially prolonging its completion timeline. Notably, one structure within phase two is intricately intertwined with the land’s topography, necessitating the incorporation of a semi-basement, while other buildings appear more straightforward in their construction. Our vision encompasses accommodating 1080 students initially, with provisions for future expansion. The expanse of land available to us is ample, affording opportunities for additional activities beyond the school’s footprint.
