God Cares Rights Foundation

Strengthening the wellbeing of vulnerable children and their families through sustainable livelihoods and improved access to healthcare and education.

In Mzimba District’s Chimbongondo area in northern Malawi, children from the poorest households are often malnourished as their caregivers are unable to provide enough food, affecting their school attendance and performance. HIV infections among 10 – 18 year olds are also on the rise due to inadequate access to HIV information, prevention and care among this age group. Cases of child abuse, neglect and teenage pregnancies are also high.

It is against this backdrop that God Cares are undertaking an Egmont-supported project to improve the wellbeing of 180 vulnerable children, including children living with HIV.

To increase access to HIV information and testing among children, outreaches and sexual health and gender norms talks are being conducted in five schools and their surrounding communities.

The project is also working with 150 households, providing agriculture training and farming inputs including seeds and livestock as well as training in small business development and enrolment into savings and loan groups, with the aim of empowering them to better provide for their families through business ventures and improved income.

In addition, to reduce the risk of children from these households dropping out of school, 150 are being supported with school uniforms and writing materials, and 30 of the most vulnerable are also being assisted with school fees.