Prince of Peace has companion relationships with Bomalang’ombe and Vikongwa parishes in the Iringa Diocese of Tanzania. This companionship is part of the larger Bega kwa Bega (Shoulder to Shoulder) connection between the St. Paul Area Synod and the Iringa Diocese.
One of the challenges that our companions face is transportation. Most parishes have one main church and several satellite “preaching points” that are served by lay evangelists. The pastor of the main church does rotational visits to these remote preaching points. A motorbike is often the best way for a pastor to make these visits, especially during the rainy season where road conditions can become a challenge.
Prince of Peace gifted a PikiPiki to Bomalang’ombe parish in 2008 and to Vikongwa in 2023. Prior to our visit in 2025 we learned that Bomalang’ombe’s 17 year old PikiPiki had served them well, but was definitely due for a replacement! We held an Ice Cream social that allowed us to raise enough funds for a new PikiPiki plus other gifts!
The St Paul Area Synod and the Iringa Diocese facilitate the purchase of the PikiPiki, which includes a motorbike, helmet and license. In order to get the best price, several PikiPikis are ordered, delivered and distributed at the same time. On December 19, 2025, a blessing ceremony was held at the Iringa Diocese office to deliver 9 PikiPikis – 3 to unpartnered parishes, 5 to partnered parishes including Bomalang’ombe, and 1 to a district pastor. It was a joyful occasion!
A few days after the ceremony, we received an email from Pastor Tewele at Bomalang’ombe, wishing all of Prince of Peace greetings for Christmas and New Year, and giving us many thanks for the gift of the PikiPiki that will help him and Associate Pastor Mwelela do their mission work. He also posted a few pictures on his Facebook page showing the PikiPiki in its new home at Bomalang’ombe!
Here are some photos of the Iringa Diocese ceremony, plus pictures at Bomalang’ombe. A huge ASANTE SANA (thank you very much) for your support which helps this ministry in Tanzania thrive!
