Orphan care in Malawi: current practices

HIV and AIDS has moved rapidly throughout sub-Saharan Africa, dramatically adding to the crisis of orphaned children on the continent. Knowledge of African responses to their problem is needed so that interventions from the global community are culturally appropriate. An assessment of 73 programs caring for over 100,000 vulnerable and orphaned children in Malawi was conducted. A cross section of programs throughout the country was visited. Three primary care strategies were found: community-based orphan care, institutional and residential care, and self-care. The model of care preferred by Africans is community based because this keeps a child in a family environment in their own village and tribe. By listening to the people of Africa, the worldwide community can learn how to work with them as they care for millions of orphaned children.