The Friends of Masasi Charitable Trust was established, shortly before his death in 1989, by Father Ronnie Cox who, working under the auspices of the UMCA (Universities Mission to Central Africa), was a missionary in Masasi for nearly 30 years and established a great rapport with the people of the Diocese.
In September 2009 the original Diocese of Masasi was split into two separate Dioceses and the new Diocese of Newala was created.   As a result of this, and with the approval of the Charity Commission, the Friends of Masasi changed its name to the Friends of Masasi & Newala.