A primary care programme for orphans and vulnerable children is being run since 2005. It was started during the HIV epidemic when the number of orphans increased a lot, and many did not survive the early years of life. The project offers training to guardians on how to care for these little ones. Any orphan, or vulnerable child, below the age of five can be admitted with a guardian for training and support at the Orphan Care Training Centre (OCTC). In 2020 we admitted 20 OVC at the OCTC. Orphans who are less than one year old receive infant formula and the others receive fortified porridge, school support and support in terms of free medical treatment. At the moment we have around 500 orphans registered, of which about 430 are above five years of age.

All OVC are being taken care of by relatives or community members within their own communities. Orphans and their guardians are taking part in the goat pass-on program, backyard vegetable production and bee keeping to improve their nutritional and economic status. (see “Nutrition” for more information)