A FORMER Bolton resident has sent an appeal from Zimbabwe to help him build a library in the disadvantaged country.

David Ngwenya lived in Halliwell, Bolton whilst studying in Manchester.

During his time in the area he regularly visited the charity shops to build up a collection of books to open up a library back in Zimbabwe.

He has since returned to Africa and is asking for donations to help build the library as funding has dried up.

Helen Gernon is a volunteer at Caritas Drop In Centre in Newport Street and is making a local appeal on his behalf.

She said: “David told us that he wouldn’t be able to stay stay in England permanently once his studies were over and so he was going back to Zimbabwe.

“He said he would spend his time there building a library and learning centre for the poor and disadvantaged. He bought many books from the charity shops here to take with him for his library in Africa.”

The Bolton News:

The photograph above shows David’s progress so far but through lack of funding all of his plans have stalled. 

Helen added: “He asked me to give these pictures to the Bolton News to see if they could publicise his cause, in the hope that just maybe someone reading the article may be able to offer some support for his projects.”

Father Tansey, from St Joseph’s Church in Halliwell, has provided David with a reference so that people can see he is genuine and his ambitions to help the poor are sincere. 

David has two degrees in management from Manchester University and even considered training for the priesthood. 

Helen said: “People will know of him and realise he is someone they know and needs help to help others in need.”

The Bolton News: File 

Father Tansey said: “I have known David for three years as he lived in our parish.
“He is a respected member of our parish community and he is currently preparing to establish a catholic library in Zimbabwe. We have supported him in this and hope that he will improve Catholic education there.”