Christian Outreach for Africa (COFA) is a nonprofit organization founded in 2016 by individuals compelled by their Christian faith to take tangible action against poverty in Africa. Rather than offering temporary relief, COFA focuses on sustainable, Christ-centered development that creates long-term impact. Grounded in its mission of Creating Opportunity, COFA empowers communities to break the cycle of poverty through education, healthcare, housing, and 
employment initiatives—particularly in the communities of Middelburg and Mhluzi, South Africa.
The township of Mhluzi bears deep scars from Apartheid. Today, its residents continue to battle poverty, crime, unemployment, and the lingering effects of social injustice. COFA has stepped into this space with a mission of hope—helping to build a future rooted in faith, education, and empowerment. At the core of COFA’s approach is a model that merges Christian values with strategic, professional leadership. Principles like self-sustainability, empowerment, cost control, local involvement, and rigorous management guide each initiative, ensuring lasting and meaningful results.
COFA supports a variety of local programs and institutions, including Amajuba Children’s Home, Bethel Preschool, St. Peter Lutheran Church, and Caring Friends health clinic. A cornerstone of our efforts is St. Peter Christian College, the only K–12 Christian school in the Middelburg/Mhluzi area. COFA also works in close partnership with the Confessional Lutheran Synod of South Africa (CLCSA), which entered full altar and pulpit fellowship with the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) in 2019.
The organization’s leadership reflects deep roots in the LCMS. Rev. Dr. David P.E. Maier, former President of the Michigan District, LCMS is a founding board member and continues to play a role in shaping COFA’s vision. His successor, current Michigan District President Rev. David Davis, also champions the mission, and under their leadership, COFA’s Michigan Advisory Board formed in 2021. The Advisory Board is a group of laity and Pastors from around the Michigan District who work together to promote, encourage, and walk alongside the ministries happening in and around Mhluzi and Middelburg. COFA is also supported by 13 churches in Michigan and around the country. And in 2024 we had 49 Michigan Lutheran schools invest in COFA through the Hearts For Jesus campaign.
Today, COFA is pursuing a key capital project: completing a STEM Centre at St. Peter Christian College. This new facility is a vital component of COFA’s five-year “Good to Great” plan to elevate the school’s impact. The STEM Centre will provide hands-on vocational training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—equipping students with high-demand skills that are essential to breaking the cycle of poverty and unemployment. These students will not only gain technical expertise, but also be trained to lead with a Christ-like heart, ready to transform their communities.
The Michigan District has already played a critical role by providing a $40,000 grant. Part of that money was used for the first phase of the STEM initiative, helping to refurbish an existing building that now houses a budding Robotics Center. COFA has also partnered with TechnoAfrika Discovery Centre, a local nonprofit that promotes STEM education in Middelburg schools and communities.
Through faith, partnership, and the power of Christian education, COFA continues to change lives in South Africa. We are deeply grateful to the Michigan District and all who support this mission. To learn more or get involved, please visit africaoutreach.org.
Photos courtesy of COFA
