Integrity Amid Unrest in Sierra Leone

Since April 1991, when civil war broke out in Sierra Leone, thousands of people have been killed, injured, or maimed.  "War and hardship have had a profound effect on people," reported Branch Committee coordinator Bill Cowan.  "Many who were indifferent to our message now listen with interest.  It is not uncommon for people to walk right off the street  into our Kingdom Halls to attend their first meeting.  The brothers are often stopped on the street and asked for a Bible study,"  Despite the country's continued instability, the Kingdom-preaching work is bearing fruitage in Sierra Leone.

Vast Building Program in South Africa

Currently, there is a need for several thousands Kingdom Halls in the territory cared for by the branch office in South Africa.  Hundreds of halls have already been built.  "Instead of meeting in a shack or under a tree, as was done previously, our brothers are able to meet in a proper place with suitable seating," noted Branch Committee member John Kikot.  "Although most of these Kingdom Halls are of modest design, they usually stand out as the most dignified buildings in their locale.  In some areas, it has been found that after building  a Kingdom Hall, the congregation will more than double during the following year."

Next time: A New Generation of Witnesses in Ukraine

The Watchtower, 2001