KC enjoys visit to Africa

by **vhelski** Sun 23 Jan 2011, 2:22 pm

KC enjoys visit to Africa

abs-cbnNEWS.com
Posted at 01/21/2011 12:41 PM | Updated as of 01/21/2011 12:41 PM

MANILA, Philippines - Actress-host KC Concepcion had a memorable experience when she visited remote areas in Uganda, Africa this month.

Concepcion left the country last January 14 and flew to Uganda as part of her duties as one of the ambassadors of the United Nation’s World Food Program (UN-WFP).

The actress-singer was looking forward to helping out in the UN’s efforts in the country after her own learning experience in our country’s impoverished areas.

"As a National Ambassador Against Hunger for the United Nations-World Food Program, I represent the UN not only here in the Philippines but also wherever they think I should go, in this case Africa. I've gone to Mindanao several times and so this for me is also a learning experience, never having been to Africa.

"Conflicts all over the world result in the same kind of suffering and pain for the affected populations. We share a common predicament as human beings whether in Mindanao or Uganda. We go all over to draw as much attention to the problem of hunger in these areas. I’m just glad that I can help out in whatever capacity. So this month, nasa Africa ako. And in the next few months, I'm sure nasa Mindanao ulit ako at kung saan man ako makakatulong,” she shared before boarding her flight last Friday.

Ms. Mei Nebreja of the UN-WFP told ABS-CBN Star Magic that the actress is doing quite well in her mission.

Last January 16, Concepcion embarked on a 10-hour road trip to reach some remote areas in Uganda where the UN extends its helping hand.

She communicated with the locals to better understand their culture.

The actress also had the chance to play with children at a local settlement, some of whom were HIV-positive.

She also helped in distributing formulated meals in UN centers and she hopes the kids will be healthier in six weeks.

She thought how funny it was that local showbiz also armed her with useful tools for the mission such as ducking behind a tree when nature calls and sleeping in small spaces.

Nebreja also shared that the Filipina ambassador was definitely in awe of Uganda and said she immediately remembered "The Lion King" original soundtrack when she saw the patches of land and grass.

Concepcion is excited to share more of her experiences in Africa when she returns today, January 20.

The actress is also doing her share of raising funds for the UN-WFP. Her "Closet," a fundraising campaign online, is still ongoing.

She has already raised P500,000 by selling signature fashion items previously owned by her and her friends.

A new batch of secondhand items was recently uploaded and interested buyers can log on to http://stores.eBay.ph/kcsclosetfightschildhunger to bid.

All proceeds go directly to the UN-WFP.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertainment/01/21/11/kc-enjoys-visit-africa