Fact-finding mission to help kids in Malawi

FROM Malawi to Ayrshire – it’s a long way to travel for work experience.

But that’s exactly what Auspicious Ndamuwa did in a bid to help improve the lives of children in his own country.

He spent 12 days on placement learning from youth and criminal justice teams in South Ayrshire.

And he was delighted with the reception he received from staff and councillors.

Auspicious works for the Chisomo Children’s Club, which was awarded a grant from the Scottish Government to develop a project to divert children away from crime.

Many of the youngsters are as young as seven and living on the street after being orphaned as a result of HIV.

He explained: “The people of South Ayrshire have opened their minds and their hearts to me and the children of Malawi. Their generosity is overwhelming.

“Together we can make a real difference to the children of Malawi.”

Council leader Hugh Hunter and social work spokesman Councillor Nan McFarlane were delighted to meet Auspicious and learn more about his work.

Councillor McFarlane said: “During his time with us, Auspicious will be able to gain an understanding of the Scottish youth justice and our criminal justice systems and how they operate in relation to children and young people who offend.

“Auspicious will then be able to identify what aspects of the Scottish system could be translated and applied in Malawi.”

A pupil and staff group have travelled to Malawi this summer to work at Chisomo Children’s Club and Namatapa Primary school.

Members of Riverside Church in Ayr have also visited the country and continue to support the children of Chisomo.

Councillor Hunter pointed out: “Young children in Malawi who may have stolen a little food to survive because they have nobody to care for them, can end up spending long periods of time in reform homes.

“We welcome the support through South Ayrshire for the project.

“The schools in Ayr, such as Belmont Academy, are working to improve the lives of the children in Malawi through a range of activities.”

He went on: “Many other schools are involved in establishing links with similar schools in Malawi to exchange educational activities.

“Community groups like the Riverside Church are also working with the project.

“The Scottish Government and the council are now supporting a special juvenile justice project to try to keep children safe with their families and communities.”