Pastor Protas A. Makimu, is a true son of Africa. I have known him for 17 years now (2008). His, is a story of faith, courage, hard work, overcoming and unswerving determination. Seeing him working hard in those humble beginnings as a college student in the early 1990s with great financial needs, it is almost unbelievable to see him today working on His doctorate in education in the USA. This shows that he has come a mighty long way. Even though there has been a change in time and space from the 1990s when I first saw him, today I still see two of his situations which have not changed much. Firstly, he is still a self sponsored student struggling to get an education so that he may better prepare himself to serve his continent and the world at large. Secondly, his focus on the gospel ministry and the passion of making a positive change in people’s lives has never changed. These two aspects- determination and passionate faith continue to shine brighter in his life. And to me that speaks volumes. He is destined to be an inspiration to millions of sons and daughters of Africa.

Therefore supporting Protas financially, would be supporting a person whose faith, talents and skills can bring about positive changes in the people of Africa- a continent that has all sorts of challenges but very limited number of its own people well trained to face them. Assisting Protas finish his PhD program, would be adding one more committed leader to the limited group of African Christian leaders who are intellectually equipped to take on the challenges of their continent and its people. Supporting him is supporting the continent of Africa as a whole. What a better opportunity to serve the world!

Pastor Christopher Mwashinga,Jr, BA., MDiv.
Formerly, Education Director
Eastern Tanzania Conference of Seventh-day Adventists