ZOA

The orphans described in this Zambia project are mainly young children (between the age of 3 and 13) who have either lost both parents or one parent (a major factor probably being AIDS-related deaths since about 17% of Zambians are estimated to be HIV+ and the average life expectancy of a Zambian is now about 36 years). The remaining parent (often a single mother) or the extended family (often a single grandmother) are frequently unable to provide adequate care for the orphan due to their own poverty levels and the competing demand to provide adequately for their own children. Most people survive in rural Zambia by growing their own food (called ‘subsistence farming’) and selling/trading small surpluses; very few locals would be employed and earning a salary. These orphans are extremely vulnerable (to death from disease and malnutrition).

The two large orphanages in the Serenje area have targeted these younger orphans as their number one priority. It is hoped that by accommodating them on site during the school week, these children will receive a balanced diet, a happy and clean environment and basic education…perhaps they will now have a much greater opportunity to live longer and happier lives?