Open Arms Malawi: Saving Lives and Providing Hope to Vulnerable Infants
Open Arms Malawi helps orphaned newborns survive and thrive, writes Hafsa Twaya.
BLANTYRE, Malawi — Open Arms Malawi, a local charity organisation based in Blantyre, has been instrumental in reducing infant mortality and providing a nurturing environment for orphaned newborns, writes Hafsa Twaya.
Through its infant homes in Blantyre and Mangochi, the organisation ensures that infants who have lost their mothers during delivery receive the care and love they need until they can be reunited with their extended families.
Since its establishment in 1998, Open Arms Malawi has positively impacted the lives of thousands of orphans.
The organization's commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for these vulnerable infants has helped them not only survive but also thrive as they grow with their families.
The impact of Open Arms Malawi is evident in the success stories shared by grateful guardians.
Florence Malumbo, who faced financial insecurity while caring for an orphan, expressed her gratitude for the assistance provided by the organization.
"With their support, I was able to raise the child, ensuring their proper development," she said.
Christina Petulo from Kunenekude, Mwanza, also experienced a similar situation and acknowledged the crucial role Open Arms played in nurturing the child.
"I am so grateful to Open Arms for the care they provided to my child," she said.
"They gave me peace of mind knowing that my child was in good hands."
Open Arms Malawi operates nine community nursery schools across the Blantyre and Mangochi districts, providing free kindergarten education to children from infant homes and the surrounding communities.
The organisation also supplies Likuni phala to these schools, ensuring that children have access to at least one meal per day.
Catherine Milward, a teacher in one of Open Arms' community nursery schools, appreciates the organization's transformative efforts in the lives of infants.
"Open Arms is doing incredible work in our community," she said.
"They are providing a safe and nurturing environment for our most vulnerable children, and they are giving them the chance to reach their full potential."
Furthermore, Open Arms Malawi has an outreach programme that follows up with children after their reintegration into their families.
This programme includes health assessments, expert advice, minor health issue treatment, and necessary referrals to hospitals when needed.
Despite financial challenges resulting from global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, Open Arms Malawi remains committed to its mission.
The organisation has found alternative ways to continue its vital work, including the implementation of a community-based care programme.
This programme supports families with baby necessities, offers training, and provides counselling on successful infant care, aiming to create positive psychological and emotional development in infants during their first three years of life.
Open Arms Malawi continues to make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable infants, ensuring their well-being and a hopeful future.
However, ongoing financial support from individuals and corporate sponsors is crucial to sustain and expand their operations, ultimately saving more lives and creating lasting change in the community.