Using Animal Care to Promote Empathy in Children

Prior to posting this project on GlobalGiving, Vusumnotfo approached and received permission from Mshingishingini Chiefdom. This is a required first step for any community-based project in rural Swaziland.

The 350 Chiefdoms act on behalf of the King in the administration of demarcated areas of Swazi Nation Land, which makes up approximately 80% of the land in Swaziland. The responsibility for the use of national resources, including the allocation of Swazi Nation Land, trying of traditional cases, and the oversight of community development projects, through the formation of committees associated with for example water systems and schools, is vested at chiefdom level.

As part of this permission, the Chiefdom Council decided that Vusumnotfo would carry out planning with the leaders of each of the four dip tanks. In Swaziland, people are required to dip their cattle against tick borne diseases. Dipping is carried out in the very early hours of the morning. Depending upon the season, this takes place once a week or every second week.

Because it is usually men who take their cattle to the dip tank, this is a unique opportunity to raise awareness about "how mimicking behaviour can inadvertently contribute to domestic violence". 

The following dates have now been set -

May 26, 27, and 28 - Community training at the 4 dip tanks and 3 primary schools

June 21 - Veterinary Clinic

July 5  - with a follow up day to take out stitches and check up for every animal that will be operated on. 

So your "NOW NOW" action and timely support are highly appreciated.