Kenyawi Kids is a Scottish charity (SC039598) promoting sustainable approaches to orphan care in Malawi. Established in 2007 and run entirely by volunteers, means that 100% of funds raised go directly towards our project partners in Malawi.
Back in 2012, Kenyawi Kids worked with STEKA in Blantyre, Malawi to purchase land and develop a new home which now houses 97 children. We raised funds in the UK to enable STEKA to fulfil their dream. The new home has been a phenomenal success and with no more rental payments, STEKA no longer has to be worried about paying monthly rent and allows the home to focus on the future of the children it supports. Under the nurturing care at STEKA, children have graduated as journalists, nurses, police officers, welders, mechanics, and Montessori trained nursery teachers, to name a few.
Early in 2023 Kenyawi Kids supported the establishment of a new childcare facility called ‘Mayamiko’ in Blantyre, Malawi. Initially 24 children came from another home and has since grown significantly due to the huge pressure on such institutions in Malawi.
Mayamiko is headed up by volunteer Director Shaheena Omar 5 nannies, 2 guards, 2 gardeners, a manager and an assistant. Mayamiko works directly with the Ministry of Social Welfare to support vulnerable children who have either lost both parents, a parent, experienced physical and mental abuse, or have been abandoned from their families. Together with Mayamiko volunteers and staff, we believe that every child deserves a chance to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or circumstances. There are currently over 40 children living very happily at the house aged 6 weeks to 17 years.
Mayamiko offer a range of programs designed to meet the unique needs of the children under its care, including education, healthcare, and vocational training. The team of experienced professionals provide personalised attention and support to each child, ensuring that they receive the care and guidance they need to succeed.
Our current development efforts are focused on a vital goal: raising the funds needed to purchase the property where Mayamiko Child Care Centre is located. At the moment, the organisation is renting the property, which takes a significant portion of their monthly budget and limits their ability to make necessary changes to better accommodate the children. By purchasing the property, Mayamiko would gain the freedom to make crucial renovations that would greatly enhance the living conditions and overall experience for the children.
Initial plans include expanding the building to add more bedrooms, an office, a playground, and volunteer housing. Owning the property would also give them much greater flexibility for future developments, such as increasing their capacity to care for older children on-site.
Cost breakdown:
- Purchasing price = £60,000
- Renovations = £20,000
- Total = £80,000
Securing this property is not just about the immediate improvements—it’s about laying the foundation for the future of Mayamiko. By investing in this home, we can ensure that Mayamiko can continue to provide the best possible care for the children they serve and expand our ability to support more children in need. Your support in this endeavour will have a lasting impact on the lives of the current, and future, children at Mayamiko for years to come.
Caroline Beaton (Founder and trustee)