Orphan Care

The number of orphans in the country is increasing at an alarming rate. By 2010, 1 in 6 children will be a child under 15 who has lost both parents to HIV/AIDS. In 2004 there were over 60,000 AIDS orphans – and that number is expected to double by 2010. Of these, 15,000 households in the country are already headed by children, some as young as 11, who are trying to raise their little brothers and sisters by themselves.

"Predators are on the increase. Abuse is being reported more and more often, affecting especially the vulnerable and lonely orphans who have no protection, no income, and no hope. More and more children are being taken into the care of unscrupulous community members who use them as cheap labor, slaves, sex slaves and housekeepers."

- Dr. Alan Brody, Unicef physician in Swaziland, 2006

Many have stated, including the United Nations, that if the AIDS epidemic is not restrained, by 2050 the Swazi people will be extinct. In order for these formidable events to be halted it will have to start with orphan care. The next emerging generation must be a main focus of social development. They are the ones who will be the hope and future of the nation. Orphan care and support are core aspects to the ministry in Bulembu.

"I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you." - John 14:18

A pillar to the overall Bulembu vision is caring for orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC). By 2020, the Bulembu community plans to care for and support over 2,000 OVC's throughout Bulembu and its surrounding communities. The core objective is to provide each child with the essential necessities they need for a fulfilling life. In this regards, each child will receive a solid education, proper health treatment, nuritional food, proper clothing, spiritual development and psycho-social counseling.