By Jane Kaye-Bailey | Founder
There are 1.2 million orphans in Zambia, primarily as a result of the HIV and AIDS pandemic. All the work done by The Butterfly Tree in Zambia is designed to improve the welfare of these vulnerable children. Every school we work in has orphans - Mukuni Village has the highest number with a staggering 600 children, over 50%, losing one or both parents!
In October 2010 I had to deal with one of the most heartbreaking situations I have ever encountered. Baby boys, Elvis and Vincent, were born two months premature, after their mother went into early labour. She died during childbirth with a third baby. The hospital could not help them, so when they were just two weeks old, each weighing less than 3lbs, they were sent home, to the remote village of Kamwi. The Butterfly Tree has supported these vulnerable boys ever since. I am overjoyed to tell you that this month they are celebrating their fifth birthday!
Our program has helped hundreds of orphans, and has enabled them to stay with their friends instead of having to go into orphanages. The first orphan we ever sponsored was Peter Liyungu, who went on to complete high school and is now being sponsored to go to college. Peter and another sponsored orphan called Charity, recently did their work experience at Mukuni and will shortly become qualified teachers. Josias, who has already gained his certificate, is volunteering at N'dele School, whicle awaiting a permanent teaching post.
To prevent new cases of HIV we fund workshops in schools. This project teaches peer educators all about the dangers of HIV, sex education, teenage pregnancies and alcohol issues. Once trained these young educators visit other schools and teach the pupils everything they know about HIV prevention. We are seeing very good results.
As always education is the key to overcoming poverty and its related issues. Your support has enabled us to pay for school and exam fees, buy uniforms, school shoes, bags and books. We are very grateful to all our sponsors, the guardians who look after the orphans and the volunteers who oversee the welfare of these very special children.
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