Our History
Humble Beginnings
Guardian Angels Motherless Babies Home (GAMB) was established in 1998 through a collaboration between the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, St. Wendelinus Parish in Mainhausen, Germany, and Holy Angels (Opus Angelorum) in Rome. The project, initiated and funded by the German parish under Deacon Edmund Eze, aimed to provide shelter and care for orphaned and abandoned children. Following negotiations, the property and vision for the home were transferred to the Diocese under the leadership of Bishop Anthony Okonkwo Gbuji and Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike.
The Catholic Diocese of Enugu invited the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy (DMMM) congregation to manage the home. On 28th December 1998, Sr. Sophia Maria Nwanekezie and Sr. Rita Mario Ibeabuchi, accompanied by Sr. Concepta Okparaji, began preparing the facility at Nebedum Close, Emene. For three months, they commuted from the Ogui Community to organize and furnish the space. By February 1999, the home was ready, welcoming its first three children: Chinazaekpere, Kelechukwu (K.C.), and Kaosirisochukwu.
Challenges at Our First Home
Guardian Angels Motherless Babies Home (GAMB) began its mission at Nebedum Close, Emene, but the location soon presented numerous challenges. Environmental hazards such as severe erosion and pollution posed constant risks to the health and safety of the children and Sisters. A lack of potable water further compounded the issues, leading to poor hygiene and a high mortality rate among the children. The limited space and inadequate facilities strained operations, making it difficult to meet the growing needs of the home.
These dire conditions drew the immediate attention of Msgr. Obiora Ike, whose compassion and leadership were pivotal in addressing the crisis. Recognising the urgent need for a safer environment, he worked tirelessly to seek solutions. His efforts, combined with prayers and the support of benefactors like Christians in Need Austria, laid the groundwork for relocating GAMB to a better facility. The challenges at Emene underscored the necessity of creating a more secure and nurturing home.
A New Chapter at Nwannedinamba
The relocation to Nwannedinamba Estate in 2015 marked a transformative chapter for Guardian Angels Motherless Babies Home (GAMB). Situated along the Enugu-Abakaliki Expressway, the new facility was completed in under a year, featuring several modern buildings designed to accommodate the children, Sisters, offices, and stores. The spacious environment is lush with greenery, providing clean air and ample room for recreation, including a well-maintained playground. The estate offers reliable access to potable water and electricity, greatly enhancing living conditions.
In their pursuit of sustainability, GAMB established a fish pond at the Nwannedinamba site, creating an opportunity for self-reliance and skill-building. The initiative not only provides fresh food but also serves as an income-generating project to support the home’s operations. These efforts have significantly improved the well-being of the children and Sisters, fostering a stable and nurturing atmosphere. The relocation truly marked a new era of growth and empowerment for GAMB.