Big Changes Bring New Opportunities for Namumu Orphanage Center
“Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.” Mark 9:37
For more than a quarter century, Namumu Orphanage Center welcomed children in Jesus’ name to their campus in Siavonga, Zambia. Many of these little ones lost their parents due to the AIDS epidemic. Through the years, the children were nurtured and educated. They worshiped and learned God’s Word. Eventually, they graduated, equipped to pursue life and a career.
Then things changed. Many African countries, including Zambia, now recognize that living with extended family or foster parents is essential for the growth of a child. Though the leaders of Namumu welcomed this new direction, it also brought them to a crossroads. Should they close their mission or transform it to meet the continuing needs of children?
Under the leadership of Director Siakwale Matomola and the Board, Namumu is charting a new future. While continuing to support the current residents through graduation, Namumu began reaching out on a quarterly basis to serve children in their homes.
Recently, Director Matomola, Board Chairperson, Mrs. Edith Mutelo, and Board Treasurer, Mrs. Loveness Musialike enjoyed the privilege of visiting 10 families they support. During these visits, they listened to the children and their guardians to understand their current needs. They also delivered essential supplies such as flour, oil, salt, new school bags and shoes, and hygiene products.
Director Matomola says,
“Since we introduced this quarterly program last year, we have observed a significant improvement in the stability and well-being of the orphans and vulnerable children in our care. The program has proven so effective that we are currently looking into ways to expand our reach to even more households in the coming months.”
At the same time, Namumu is restructuring its campus to provide a new medical clinic to support the Siavonga community as well as vocational training for young people. This will allow those who cannot afford higher education to support themselves and bless their communities.
The creativity and willingness of the leadership at Namumu to adapt to the changing needs of their community is truly a blessing. The unwavering commitment of friends of The Outreach Foundation to the children of Siavonga is inspiring. When you welcome them, you welcome Jesus!
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Outreach Foundation seeks gifts to support Namumu Orphanage Center in its efforts to adapt to a changing mission. We are so excited for this new chapter in their organization.
If God is calling you to make a gift, you may send a check to the address below with the partner name “Namumu” in the memo, or you can donate on the GIVE page of our website: www.theoutreachfoundation.org.
