What is Harambee ?
Project Harambee is an initiative celebrating the canonization of Josemaría Escrivá, founder of Opus Dei, funded by donations from participants at the canonization ceremonies and from many others. Harambee promotes educational programmes in Africa and about Africa – developmental projects on the sub-Saharan region and awareness-building activities elsewhere designed to spread the positive influence of African culture.

What is the connection between Project Harambee and the canonization of Josemaría Escrivá?
Every canonization is a gift from God that enriches the life of the Church and is an occasion for joy. It is a gift that inspires thanksgiving. And so, as an expression of gratitude, the Organizing Committee of the canonization decided to promote Project Harambee. This type of project is often linked to large gatherings convoked by the Holy Father, such as the Day of the Family. Iin his Lenten message for 2002, John Paul II encouraged the promotion of works of charity in thanksgiving for all the gifts received from God.

What does Harambee mean?
In Kiswahili, Harambee means “all for one”. It is the cry of fishermen as they drag their nets ashore. Everyone echoes this same word when a collective effort is made for the common good, such as helping a family in need, or the construction of a school or a church. Everyone does what they can, with their personal effort, with donations in cash or in kind, “all for one” – all give and all receive. The teachings of Josemaría Escrivá have led many people to promote initiatives that seek the good and the material development of the needy in many countries, some of them in Africa.