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Transforming a rural community in Burkina Faso through Christ-centred education, practical skills, and holistic care.
The Gampela Centre was born out of a vision God gave Pastor John Tandamba in 2008: to establish a Christ-centred school just outside Ouagadougou. That vision became reality in 2012 in the rural village of Gampela, where families face poverty, food insecurity, displacement due to internal conflict, and limited access to education and healthcare. The Centre has grown into a place of learning, discipleship, and hope, reaching children, youth, and families from diverse religious backgrounds and equipping them to build a stronger future rooted in Christ.
The Gampela Centre transforms its community through Christ-centred education and holistic care. Many students come from Muslim or animist backgrounds, but the Centre offers a welcoming environment where education, faith, and practical support go hand in hand. Since partnering with Hope Story in 2017, this work has continued to grow in depth and reach.
From preschool through secondary school, students receive quality academic instruction alongside regular Bible teaching that nurtures character and purpose. For youth and young adults, vocational training provides practical skills and an alternative pathway to employment, helping reduce vulnerability to exploitation, addiction, and violence.
Care for the whole person is central to the ministry. Through daily meals and counselling the Gampela Centre supports students’ physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Discipleship extends beyond the classroom through Grace Evangelical Church, which ministers to students, families, widows, and the wider community.
Preschool, Primary, Secondary, Vocational Training, Subsidized Tuition for Girls, Academic Support
Daily Nutritious Meals, Medical Clinic & Dispensary, Counselling
Bible Lessons, Pastoral Counselling, Worship & Baptisms
Conservation Agriculture, Food Resale Program, Community Outreach
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Pastor John Tandamba brings decades of pastoral and ministry experience to the Gampela Centre. He oversees all operations, pastors Grace Evangelical Church, and teaches at multiple Bible schools across Burkina Faso.
Through national pastor trainings, partnerships with international mission and recovery ministries, and a deep commitment to discipleship, Pastor John leads with a vision to see communities transformed through Christ-centred education and faith in action.
