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Searchlight Orphan Care centre was established in 2002.It has managed to serve the needy community through local contributions. After seeing that all orphans in our area were not helped, we decided to establish an orphanage. We have two care centers, one at Msema village and another at Kalinde both in Phalombe district. We are now caring 40 orphans. We are operating in very remotest areas here in Phalombe where most of the orphans are ignored. And we hope to increase the number when get financial support.



Some of our day to day activities are:

[a] Providing early childhood development support for the orphans, vulnerable, disabled and malnutrition children under five and years of age through daycare nursery education, feeding schemes, relief aid and nutritional supplement.
[b] Providing Community Home Based Care programs to the chronically ill, disabled, old aged and all HIV/AIDS affected and infected people.
[c] To support widows and caregivers for families affected by HIV/AIDS, through income generation, obtained from committees, local contributions and from our local garden.
[d] To propagate HIV/AIDS awareness messages to the communities.
[e] To provide school cost sponsorship and domestic needs to the orphaned children aged between 6 and 18.
[f] To provide vocational skills training courses in i.e. carpentry.
[g] To provide relief/development services and environmental conservation activities i.e. tree planting.


PROBLEM STATEMENT

The community established Searchlight Orphan Care Centre because of the following crucial circumstances faced:

[a] Increased death rates of people especially aged below 49 due to HIV/AIDS infections, and children under five years old due to malnutrition.
[b] Increased number of orphans, vulnerable, underprivileged and malnutrition, due to HIV/AIDS pandemic.
[c] Increased tendencies of depriving orphans and widows of their rights through property grabbing, child abuse through child labor, which often result into child sex coercing, drug abuse etc. and which will finally bring discomfort, starvation and extreme poverty on the HIV/AIDS affected families or households.
[d] Increased number of widows/widowers, chronically ill and needy cares for orphans.
[e] Stigma, rejection and deprivation on the HIV/AIDS affected/infected people, by the community, caregivers, or relatives.
[f] Failure of orphans to continue with education due to the lack of school cost assistance.

OUR NEEDY STATUS:

Searchlight Orphan Care is meeting crucial situations in order to serve the needy status of HIV/AIDS affected/infected communities due to lack of material and financial resources for the day to day services.

We therefore creating this web page, pleading for your generous assistance toward our projects. We are looking for funding for building orphanage home, financial support, food aid, clothes, etc.

Be assured that your funding shall relieve, save lives and bring better and self-reliant future to the needy communities affected by HIV/AIDS.

We believe that there is a Scriptural precedent and injunction for making known the needs of those who are part of the same Body of Christ, but who are unable to make their needs known themselves.



WE APPEAL TO YOU

FIRST MAJOR NEED:

There we plead with you to help us with finances to build this big home. It would cost the total of US$40,000 to build large orphanage, and equip it with beds, mattress, blankets, furniture, etc. The price also includes builders wages, brick buying and transport costs.



SECOND NEED:

We feel it is not good to keep on begging all the years, we need to have an income generating activity that will raise money for teachers pay, feeding orphans, buying clothes, etc.

Therefore we plead with you to help us with US$10,000 to buy an electric maize mill and start a goat rearing project in the village. These projects will give much money to our organization and we will be self reliant one day

THIRD NEED:

We need to get support of US$500 per month to run our Mothers and Babies Craft Centre at Msema village.


FORTH NEED:


We have build a school for orphans in the village , but we are failing to employ teachers to teach the orphans due to lack of money. It is our vision for this school to have sewing machines, type writers etc..

We therefore need US$5,000 to buy school equipment uniform for orphans, buy books , exercise books, pencils, pens, etc.


- Searchlight Orphan Care Appeal

During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. [This happened during the reign of Claudius.] The disciples, each according to his ability, decided to provide help for the brothers in Judea. This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul." ---

Acts 11:27-32

Dear Friends,

We believe that there is a Scriptural precedent and injunction for making known the needs of those who are part of the same Body of Christ, but who are unable to make their needs known themselves.

Proverbs 31:8-9 exhorts us: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

The famine and poverty situations in Malawi and the entire South-Central region of Africa are increasingly worse. Within a couple of years, the difficulties have been compounded by the floods that often accompany the rainy season. What was a needy situation has now becoming desperate.

You cannot affect all of Africa, but you can reach out to one village where there is a church that is trying to live as a testimony to the redeeming power of Jesus Christ. Food is available in the cities, but these people live in the rural areas where many do not even possess currency; most trading is still done by barter methods. Many orphans are sick and starving, wearing ragged clothes, etc

OUR NEEDY STATUS: If anybody would like to be a part of our efforts to help this part of the family of God, please feel free to send whatever you feel led. "Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality"

2 Corinthians 8:13

"If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered." Proverbs 21:13.

BANK DETAILS:

Account Name:
SEARCHLIGHT ORPHAN CARE

Account Number: 0133526043800

Bank Name : NATIONAL BANK OF MALAWI

CUSTOMS ROAD BRANCH

Swift code : NBMAMWMW004

Bank Address:

NB – Customs Road

P.O.Box 5045

Limbe

Malawi

Introduction

Thank you for choosing Malawi Volunteer Programs in Malawi. We hope to make your volunteer experience and stay with us memorable.

Important Contacts

Duncan Nyozani  Cell:  09 268 355 

[ Email: nyozanid@yahoo.com , rescuetheorphans@yahoo.com ]

Damson Samson – 08 728 420

VOLUNTEER FEES:

1 – 2 Weeks   …………………………US$250.00

3 – 4 Weeks   …………………………US$450.00

2 Months        …………………………US$850.00

The money can be sent to our organization`s bank account below:

Account Name:           SEARCHLIGHT ORPHAN CARE

Account Number:       0133526043800

Bank Name :                NATIONAL BANK OF MALAWI

                                       CUSTOMS ROAD BRANCH

Swift code :                  NBMAMWMW004

Bank Address:

                          NB – Customs Road

                          P.O.Box 5045

                          Limbe

                          Malawi

Arrival and Orientation

 Your flight details should be emailed as soon as available. These will consist of flight number, date and time of your arrival. This information is important to us and will enable us to pick you in time and without delays.

Arrival will be at Chileka Airport in Blantyre or Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe. But we recommend Chileka/ Blantyre because it is close to us.You will be met by Advance Africa host in Malawi as well as local staff. You will then be transferred to your host for some rest. Your accommodation will be comfortable, secure, and convenient. It will also be within a reasonable distance for you to attend to your volunteer responsibilities.

On the day of arrival, you will have opportunity to email or call friends and relatives to let them know you have arrived safely.

Your orientation will in most cases occur the day after your arrival. It covers informative session on the needs of local communities, safety, malaria, Malawi food, shopping, clothing, cultural restrictions, language, currency, and how to be safe and streetwise in Malawi.

Information and profiles of the home-stay hosts will be introduced during the orientation. In addition, you will be introduced to the profile of local communities where you will work. Issues such as eradication of poverty, combating HIV/AIDS, skills of the local communities, business and economic development will be discussed.

You will also be introduced to basic Chichewa phrases. If the volunteer would like to learn more Chichewa, an optional 2 hour interactive language session can be arranged at a local language centre.* The volunteer will meet the cost of additional language classes – usually $1 - $5 a session.

Safari

Damson, our tour guide will usually put several volunteers together for a 1 – 3 day safari. Safaris cost $120 per person per day and is inclusive of park fees, accommodation, meals as well as the costs for the driver and the van. We shall make arrangements for your safari and ensure your safety as well as that of your personal belongings. (See below for places of interest). 

Transport

Volunteers are responsible for their in country transport as well as making appropriate arrangements to get to the airport for departure. Damson, our trusted tour guide/taxi driver will drop you the airport at a cost of K5,000 [US$ 40]. Contact him on 08 728 420.

Accommodation

All our volunteers get along very well with their host family. Note that most Malawian families are non smokers. It is therefore essential that volunteers avoid smoking and or alcohol consumption in their rooms.

It is also essential to purchase your own personal items such as toothpaste, toiletries, towels, face towels and sandals. If you are sharing a room with other volunteers, please keep the room tidy and take care of your personal belongings.

Other courteous habits include keeping noise to a minimal especially during sleeping hours and removing your shoes on entering the house.

Refund Policy

Advance Africa receives many volunteers from other organizations. We act as a partner organization in getting placements and accommodation for volunteers from other organizations. If you came to us from another organization and want to leave before the expiry of your placement, please email them and ask for their refund policy.

If you approached Advance Africa directly, please note that we are unable to issue refunds after you have been picked from their airport, placed in an accommodation and started your volunteer work. We pay for your accommodation and other expenses upfront. Our experience is that it is difficult to retrieve funds already dispensed to your hosts and various projects that we assist.

Major Malls in Blantyre

Shoprite, PTC, Game, etc

Shopping for African Souvenirs

The best places to buy souvenirs are the open air markets like Migowi, Namba on Saturdays and Wednesday, Chiringa on Saturdays, Sombani on Mondays and Thursdays.

Cyber cafés

There are many cyber cafés in Blantyre and Phalombe and all the major towns. Most of them charge a K5 a minute or just under USD$2 per hour.

Icon  in Blantyre has excellent speeds as well as international phone and scanning facilities and  has a good cyber café, a restaurant and resting facilities.

City Public Transport and Taxis

There is an excellent public transport to the residential suburbs from various locations.  Shared minibus taxis are cheap and plentiful.

Be very careful of your possessions if on foot and in the public transport. (See FAQ below for more tips)

Never walk around at night. It is advisable to take the taxi when hanging out in the evening hours. It is very cheap and the taxi drivers know the way around.

Taxi fares are negotiable. Do not pay what you have been asked to pay. Start bargaining from half the asking price upwards. If you cannot reach an agreement, be prepared to walk away.

Restaurants

It is impossible to list all the fine bars and restaurants in Blantyre. The following can be a start off point for you.

                          ALEM ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT (Blantyre)

§                                 ALIBABA TAKEAWAYS (Blantyre)

§                                 AMINA'S TAKEAWAYS (Lilongwe)

§                                 BABA DELHI DARBAR RESTAURANT (Lilongwe)

§                                 BLUE GINGER (Lilongwe)

§                                 BOMBAY PALACE (Blantyre)

§                                 BUCHANAN’S GRILL (Lilongwe)

§                                 BURGERLAND (Lilongwe)

§                                 CAFÉ DELIGHT (Lilongwe)

§                                 CAFE’ ROGUE (Blantyre)

§                                 CASM RESTAURANT (Blantyre)

§                                 CHILOMO RESTAURANT (Lilongwe)

§                                 CRAZY FOODS (Blantyre)

§                                 CURRY CORNER (Blantyre)

§                                 EBENEZER CHIPS (Lilongwe)

§                                 EMIES EATING HOUSE (Blantyre)

§                                 HIPPO VIEW LODGE (Liwonde)

§                                 JJ INVESTMENT (Lilongwe)

§                                 KIPS (Lilongwe)

§                                 KIPS (Blantyre)

§                                 LA MANNA RESTAURANT (Blantyre)

§                                 MAGIC FLORIST (Blantyre)

§                                 MARTIN’S TASTY FOODS LTD. (Blantyre)

§                                 MEGABITE (Blantyre)

§                                 NEESH'S EATING HOUSE (Blantyre)

§                                 NEW PLANET HOLLYWOOD CAFE’ (Blantyre)

§                                 OASIS RESTAURANT (Blantyre)

§                                 OASIS RESTAURANT AND TAKE AWAY (Blantyre)

§                                 ORIENTAL RESTAURANT (Lilongwe)

§                                 PANJIRA CHICKEN (Blantyre)

§                                 PENDI'S RESTAURANT (Lilongwe)

§                                 PIZZA PALACE (Blantyre)

§                                 RAINFOREST / SOUTHERN FRIED BLANTYRE (Blantyre)

§                                 SEVEN TO FIVE RESTAURANT (Lilongwe)

§                                 SHIBUYA RESTAURANT (Blantyre)

§                                 SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN (Blantyre)

§                                 STEERS / PIZZA INN (Lilongwe)

§                                 SUMMER PART RESTAURANT & TAKE AWAY (Lilongwe)

§                                 SUN 'N 'SAND (Mangochi)

Places of Interest

Malawi is not a recognized big game destination although it does have some of the most beautiful reserves in Africa.

The Nyika National Park is renowned for its hiking and horse riding tours and Liwonde National Park which is arguably one of the best birding destinations in Central Africa. Other reserves in Malawi include the Kasungu National Park and the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.

Lake Malawi is renowned for its water activities including canoeing and snorkeling. There are a number of lodges situated on the lakeshore and on the islands in the lake that are ideal honeymoon retreats.

Places of Interest in Malawi

• Cape Maclear

• Kande beach

• Lake Chilwa

• Lake Malawi

• Lake Malombe

Parks and Reserves in Malawi:

• Kasungu National Park

• Lake Malawi National Park

• Lengwe National Park

• Liwonde National Park

• Majete Wildlife Reserve

• Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve

• Nyika National Park

• Vwaza Marsh Game Reserve

LIWONDE NATIONAL PARK

Liwonde National Park is Malawi's best for Wildlife.   It is located on the Shire River - a tribuitatary of the Zambezi - and as a result is rather long a thin.  You can drive your own vehicle into the park, but you're limited to the main road (in the wet season this is often impassable) and a couple of small detours.  There is a luxury camp in the Park - "Mvu" (Mvu is Chichewa for Hippo) which although it seems expensive at about $90 per night for a tent, the quality of the tents, and the fact that the price includes three excelent meals, two game activities - usually a morning boat trip on the Shire and a game drive which starts in daylight and after a "sundowner" on the river becomes a night drive - means that it's pretty good value.  However, during the rainy season you have to add another $40 for the boat transfer to and from the camp.  Mvu also has shalets for $100 per night and the really plush Mvu Wilderness lodge (I think that's what its called) which is $150 or $200 per night I think - the extra gives you an even better   "Tent" with en-suite showers, toilets, etc

Animal-wise you're guaranteed to see hippos and crocodiles.  Seeing them like this (out of the water) is easier when the river is lower and more of the sand banks are above the water.  But you can also see plenty of elephant, impala water buck, and baboons.  Less common are sable, kudu and bushbuck and the bird life, being on a river, is also plentiful.  Cats are more difficult, there are often rumours of lion, but usually if they're seen they are at the far eastern end of the park where none of the game drives get to - they come in from Mozambique.   Leopards exist and can be spotted on the night drives

However, it's the sort of park where one day you can see nothing one day and everything the next, it really is pot luck.  Viewing is far better in the dry season - especially at the end of the river as many of the larger animals come down to drink.  During the rains it is very difficult to see much at all.

Volunteer in Malawi FAQ

Tell me more about Malawi.

Malawi is a landlocked country with a population of over 12 million people. Located in southeast Africa, it is surrounded by Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Tanzania.

Lake Malawi , formerly Lake Nyasa, occupies most of the country`s eastern boarder. The north – south Rift valley is flanked by mountain ranges and high plateau areas.

The languages spoken here are English, Chichewa, Tonga, Tumbuka, Sena, Lomwe, Nyanja, Kokola. Most of the people are Christians, and the other comprises of indigenous religions and Muslim. The currency is Malawian Kwacha.

How is the climate in Malawi?

Variations in altitude in Malawi lead to wide differences in climate. The vast water surface of Lake Niassa has a cooling effect, but because of the low elevation, the margins of the lake have long hot seasons and high humidity, with a mean annual temperature of 24°C (75°F). Precipitation is heaviest along the northern coast of Lake Malawi, where the average is more than 163 cm (64 in) per year; about 70% of the country averages about 75–100 cm (30–40 in) annually. In general, the seasons may be divided into the cool (May to mid-August); the hot (mid-August to November); the rainy (November to April), with rains continuing longer in the northern and eastern mountains; and the post-rainy (April to May), with temperatures falling in May. Lilongwe, in central Malawi, at an elevation of 1,041 m (3,415 ft), has a moderately warm climate with adequate rainfall. The average daily minimum and maximum temperatures in November, the hottest month, are 17°C (63°F) and 29°C (84°F), respectively; those in July, the coolest month, are 7°C (45°F) and 23°C (73°F).

What vaccinations/immunizations are required?

No immunizations are required by law to enter Malawi. If you are traveling from a country where yellow fever is present you will need to take a yellow fever vaccination. Several vaccinations are highly recommended, they include:

 Yellow Fever

 Typhoid

 Hepatitis A & B

 Polio

 Diphtheria

 Tetanus

 Rabies

 Meningitis

 Cholera

 Tuberculosis

Contact your doctor several weeks before you travel and seek advice regarding the vaccinations to take.

What about malaria in Malawi?

Make sure your doctor knows you are traveling to Malawi (don't just say Africa) so she can prescribe the right anti-malarial medication. Malaria prevention medication should be taken according to your doctor’s instructions before, during and after a visit to affected areas. Malaria is a serious tropical disease, which is spread by night-biting mosquitoes which transmit a parasite. Avoiding getting bitten is important and usually the most effective means to prevent the disease.

Long sleeved shirts and trousers should be worn in the evenings and insect repellent can be used in areas with mosquitoes. If the area you are volunteering has mosquitoes, use a mosquito net at night. The most effective are those treated with an insect repellent.

It is important to treat malaria as soon as symptoms arise. Its symptoms include chills, fevers, headache, nausea and vomiting. If you suspect you have malaria, see a doctor as soon as possible even if you have the treatment for malaria with you so that a correct diagnosis can be made.

What if I get sick while volunteering in Malawi?

We recommend that you be adequately insured both with medical and traveler’s insurance. Health care services in Blantyre, Lilongwe, Zomba, Mzuzu and other major towns are good and up to date.

How is the Malawian food?

Foods served during your volunteer period include traditional Malawi foods like nsima and tandaza (corn meal and greens), maize and beans. Malawian meals also consist of other universal dishes such as beef, fish, rice and pasta.

French fries, burgers, sandwiches etc are available in restaurants and hotels. Breakfast usually consists of bread, eggs and at times bacon, sausage, and baked beans. Fruits and vegetables are plenty in Malawi and feature frequently in menu preparations. Malawian coffee and tea are common beverages.

Is it safe to drink the tap water in Malawi?

It is generally recommended that you drink bottled water during your volunteer stay in Malawi both in Blantyre and whilst upcountry or on a safari. You can buy bottled water from any supermarket and most shops in Malawi.

The most common water-borne diseases in Malawi are typhoid, cholera and dysentery. Other less common ones include gastroenteritis, amoebiasis and dysentery.

Is it safe to volunteer in Malawi?

Malawi is one of the safest countries in Africa. We ensure you are placed in safe environment and you will be very well looked after while volunteering in Malawi. The Malawian people are very warm and friendly towards foreigners.

However, it is essential to take simple precautions. Do not carry your valuables around. Take a copy of your passport and visas to carry with you. Leave your passport, credit cards, debit cards and other valuables such as cameras and laptops at home.

Is it safe to go shopping in Phalombe or Blantyre?

Blantyre is one of the biggest cities in Malawi. Like any big city, it has minor criminal elements. Common criminal incidents involve snatching of purses, watches and jewellery.

It is safe to shop in most sections of the city. We shall recommend and guide you regarding appropriate areas to shop and visit during your volunteer orientation and training. While out, do not wear any expensive clothing and jewellery; leave all your jewellery at home. Avoid dark alleys and take a taxi at night.

What other safety issues should I be aware of?

There is poverty in Malawi. You are likely to be viewed as very rich. You will probably attract souvenir hawkers as well as street children and beggars in smaller towns. Be sure to take some precautions such as:

 Leave your passport, credit cards and debit cards in the room provided by your home stay host. Only carry a copy of your passport and little cash when going about your duties.

 Do not walk on your own at night in the major cities.

 Do not wear jewelry.

 Do not carry a lot of camera equipment.

 Wear a money belt that fits under your clothes.

 Always avoid alleys/back streets.

 Avoid using your ipod except in your room, at the restaurants or at the project during your break. An ipod in the streets may attract undue attention. You need to be aware of your surroundings at all times when walking, using public transport etc.

 Avoid talking and walking with strangers.

More safety issues will be discussed at your orientation.

What clothing is appropriate? Any cultural restrictions?

Bring along some comfortable, casual and semi-casual clothing: sweat shirts, shorts, jeans, skirts and any other clothing that you would ordinarily wear. Include warm clothing for nights, especially if you volunteer in July and August. Avoid flashy items.

When out in the community, it is good to follow local etiquette. Female volunteers need to wear pants and/or long skirts. Dressing in Blantyre is quite liberal. However, approach it with cultural sensitivity in mind and you will be fine. Please ask when you are not sure what is and is not appropriate.

Footwear can be hiking boots, old sports shoes or open-toed sandals.
 

What do I need to pack?

Volunteers need to bring their own towels, face towels and other personal effects. Volunteers are responsible for their own laundry.

It is safe to bring your laptop, cameras, video cameras, hair dryers, shavers and other electrical products.

Other suggested items:

 Malaria tablets; consult your doctor for suggestions

 Adapter plugs and converters for electrical appliances

 Good walking shoes (running/tennis shoes are fine) and sandals

 Moisturizing cream and suntan lotion

 Insect repellent (e.g. Tabard, Rid, Jungle Juice, OFF, etc.)

 Basic medical kit (e.g. aspirins, plasters, Immodium, antiseptic cream, and Anti-histamine cream, etc.)

 Remember your visas, tickets, passports, money, etc.

What about the electricity supply for laptops, hairdryers etc?

Before traveling to Malawi, you need to know the type of electric plug and socket in your destination and also the voltage of the electric power, the frequency (Hertz) and any special requirements like fuses or earth connections that may interfere with the use of your equipment.

The electricity supply in Malawi is 220/240 volts/50 Hz (240V 50 Hz D & G). The electric sockets are three-pin square (British-type).

Remember that simple adapters do not convert voltage or frequency. Incorrect use may keep you from using your equipment, damage it and even cause personal injuries. Using a plug adapter just changes the shape of the prongs. Countries with different voltages and frequencies may use similar plugs. Check to need if you need a power converter and not simply a plug adapter.

Do I need a visa to enter Malawi?

Most visitors to Malawi need to obtain a visa including Europeans, Americans and nationals from Commonwealth countries such as New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Volunteers need to obtain a tourist visa to enter Malawi. Visas are valid for three months from the date of entry and can be purchased upon arrival at Chileka Airport in Blantyre or Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe.

You can also get a visa before you travel from Malawian diplomatic missions overseas. You should apply well in advance.

If you are planning on visiting just Malawi, a single-entry visa is all you need. If your travel plans include visiting Mozambique, Zambia or Tanzania, then you will need a multiple-entry visa if you wish to re-enter Malawi again.

What is the Malawian  currency?

The currency in Malawi is the Malawian Kwacha. The kwacha comprises 100 tambala. Coins are in denominations of 10t 20t , K1,K 5, K10, and K20 . Bank notes are in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 , 100,200   and K500.

Importation of foreign currency is unlimited and does not have to be declared on arrival.

The value of the kwacha fluctuates. Check the value of the kwacha with a currency converter just before you go. Do not change too much money at one time and use the banks not the money changers.

Are credit cards accepted in Malawi?

Major credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa are accepted. American Express, Discover, Solo, Switch and Diners Club are often not accepted. ATMs will mostly accept MasterCard, Visa and Visa Electron cards.

Major credit cards are accepted at supermarkets and expensive restaurants and hotels. However, it is advisable to carry some cash.
 

Common Chichewa Terms

The following are some common Chichewa salutation words and their responses.