"Freedom is nothing but a chance to be better."

Highlights of a summer in malawi

Amayi Achifundo Orphanage

Outside the northern limits of Blantyre resides a small orphanage called Amayi  Achifundo (Women of Sympathy).  Chaired by Esther Luwisi and supported by hundreds of residents, this orphanage cares for more than 600 youth from the townships of Lundu and Chigaru.

Since 1999, Amayi Achifundo has been an integral part in the development of the youth in Blantyre.  It has been a positive influence on the children and its solid commitment to their success is more than apparent.  The orphanage provides after-school programs for primary-level students, teaching basic skills in carpentry, textile production, gardening, and other essential skill sets.  Coupled by the positive influence from their dedicated mentors, these children are learning how to be good, prosperous citizens..  In the context of a future that looks bleak, since most of these children will not be able to afford secondary school fees, the importance of such a bedrock institution is clear.

Amayi Achifundo recently received a generous donation from the noble efforts of Anna Key, a graduate and soccer goalie from the University of California Berkeley.  Her ability to collect $15,000 was recognized by the Athletes for a Better World non-profit organization.

In August, I visited Amayi Achifundo and saw first-hand the benefits of this grass-roots organization.  SM Galaxy, a local soccer club supported by the non-profit Soccer Alliance of Malawi, helped facilitate our visit to the orphanage.  Bright Sisseo and Aubrey Nankhuni, managers of the soccer club, donated 2 soccer balls to the orphanage.  We conducted interviews with the director and volunteers of the orphanage.  Their story can be seen in the documentary video on the top right.

Dr. Mchombo, founder of SAM (Sports Alliance of Malawi) Inc. talks about SM Galaxy’s work in Malawi and how other youth soccer teams will continue to be the example to follow for local community development.

Video of Amayi Achifundo visit - Click Photo

Hope and Service in a Small Orphanage

Interview with Dr. Sam Mchombo on Orphans in Malawi.

Part 2 - Interview with Sam Mchombo on Orphans in Malawi.