Samalani Orphan Care and Youth Organisation (SOCAYO)
Samalani Orphan Care and Youth Organisation was founded by Samson Chaziya, a resident of Lilongwe.
In 2005 Malawi suffered a huge drought and food shortage. Samson recognised the need for community action to combat the difficulties people were facing.
Bringing together local members of the community, Samson held a meeting to discuss how best to help those most at risk. A feeding programme was established, with women from the community gathering to cook any food available.
Since 2005 the feeding programme has grown. Whereas it used to be held in Samson's house, now local chiefs have donated two buildings and the 'Better World Together' foundation have bought land.
How it all started
Continuing the feeding programme every morning for the young orphans, the centre's services have been extended to providing:
- Early Child Development Nursery and Primary education
One of the main programmes that Samalani runs is Early Child Development (ECD). This year Samalani has 141 children aged 3 to 8 in its ECD programme. The programme is run by two local women, Mary and Zellesi, who run classes in reading, writing, singing dancing and games. Samalani provides these children with a safe and supportive classroom environment, so they can learn from one another and develop new skills.
- Secondary education support classes
After attending school for the day many of the youths at Samalani want to continue their studying and homework. Often their own homes are not suitable for this, so Samalani offers a place for students to come and work. The staff at Samalani are also at hand to offer support and advice when needed.
- HIV awareness and education
HIV and AIDS have deeply affected Malawi. The team at Samalani work with the community raising awareness and fighting prejudice of HIV/AIDS, often through the use of dramas, songs and discussions.
- Elderly and Psycho-social support
HIV/AIDS has disproportionally affected three generations. Often the elderly are left with the young orphans of family members, putting a strain on their resources. This is where Samalani steps in: assisting families with food and clothing, helping families stay together and strengthening the community.
- Recreational activities
Recreational activies at Samalani include netball, football, drama, music and dancing. These promote team work, leadership and enjoyment.
Samalani is a member of the Tsabango network of community centres within Lilongwe, of which Samson is now chairman.
It has a permanent team of devoted staff, all of whom are local to Area 23 and support hundreds of people in the community.
Community Opportunity works with Samalani through the provision of financial assistance, advice and expertise in self-help projects, clothing and educational materials, thus enabling Samalani to run its programmes more effectively.
