Educate & feed 300 children in Swaziland!

As we begin 2026, we remain committed to providing quality preschool education and daily nutritious meals to children in underserved communities. Despite ongoing financial constraints, we have continued to sustain our programmes and respond to the growing needs within the communities we serve.

In the first quarter, enrolment increased slightly from 240 to 244 children across our 9 Neighborhood Care Points (NCPs). Mlindazwe NCP has 11 children, Nkanini 15, Bethany 17, Mvutjini 19, Mahlanya 20, Lamgabhi 27, Elangeni 35, Ekuzukekeni 40, and Ezulwini 60. In addition, we continue to support primary learners, NCP graduates, through our homework clubs, with 15 children enrolled at Elangeni and 26 at Ezulwini.

A total of 12,309 meals were provided to 244 children over 51 working days during this quarter. These meals remain essential, as many of the children rely on the NCPs for consistent daily nutrition. However, Lamgabhi NCP experienced a food shortage in March, leaving 27 children without meals for five working days due to depleted supplies. As Lamgabhi does not receive external food support, we have recommended the revival of their garden as a sustainable solution to strengthen food security.

We also continued to prioritise holistic child development through daily sports activities, which were held over 51 days. These activities supported the development of coordination, teamwork, communication, fair play, and basic swimming skills among the children.

We are grateful for the support received from our January volunteer group, who contributed learning materials for all NCPs and building materials for Mlindazwe, where the roof had been damaged by heavy rains. With their support, the roof at Mlindazwe was repaired, Elangeni NCP was painted inside and outside, and the swings at Ezulwini were fixed. We also extend our appreciation to Rose Roques for her generous donation of toothbrushes, toothpaste, and soccer balls, which contribute to both the health and well-being of the children.

Our child sponsorship programme continues to provide meaningful support to four children, ensuring consistent care and assistance.

Despite the progress made, funding constraints and rising food costs remain ongoing challenges. The situation at Lamgabhi highlights the vulnerability of centres without consistent external support. Moving forward, our focus is on strengthening partnerships, improving food security through sustainable solutions such as gardens, and continuing to provide safe and supportive learning environments.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our partners, donors: Atle Sundøy, Sara Anne Horein and Jeff Horein, Eswatini Charitable Trust (ECT), and Emma and Kris Langbridge, Nevan Fisher and Laurie Keough and volunteers for their continued support. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of the children we serve.

SIYABONGA KAKHULU!