Inspirational Harold Hill mum travels to Africa to build orphanage in memory of murdered son.

At the age of nine years old Champion Ghanda asked his grandmother why children were so poor in Africa. He had left Africa at the age of three with his mum Peguy Kato and his family to move to England but vowed to his grandmother that he would make it as a famous footballer and return to Africa to build an orphanage and look after the poor.

Champion never got the chance as he was stabbed to death on the streets of Forest Gate at the age of just 17 years old. Now, his mum an inspirational lady who has dedicated her life helping others, has returned to Kinshasa in Congo to start the building of an orphanage in memory of Champion.

“This is the first time I have returned back to Africa since I last collected my son to travel to the UK. It was very painful and sad and bought back so many memories. I felt very empty that my son Champion was not there or travelling with me.

“I am building the Champion Ghanda orphanage as a legacy to my son and to do what he wanted to do but never got the chance. Even though he is not here, his name and memory will continue and most importantly children in Africa will have the opportunity of a better life now through his legacy.”

Peguy, from Harold Hill runs Champions Charity, dedicated to helping teenagers stay away from knife crime and build a better future.

“I’m sad he is not here to travel to Africa with me, but I know he is looking down and pleased with the work we are doing in his name.”