December is upon us and the nurseries are preparing for their final few weeks of term before the holidays.
We always like to share news from the year with you all and say a big thank you to everyone who has supported the charity.
In some ways, 2023 has been a difficult one to watch from afar as Malawi continues to suffer as a country. Earlier this year, Malawi felt the devastating effects of Cyclone Freddy. This had an impact on the local communities of which the nurseries are a big part.
All schools, including the Nansato Nursery Trust buildings, closed for a couple of weeks across the southern region as families dealt with the loss of their homes, their harvest and their livestock.
The teachers reported that some nursery children had to move to temporary camps, with many homes being destroyed by the floods.
Then earlier this month, the Reserve Bank of Malawi devalued the local currency by about 30%, which will result in a hike in fuel and electricity prices and the price of everyday commodities.
Thankfully, all of the nursery buildings survived the floods (more on this below) and the staff were able to get the nurseries back up and running as quickly as possible.
At times like these, it really brings home the importance of stability. Having a few hours each day to come and learn through play and enjoy a warm bowl of porridge can be so vital at a time when there is so much turmoil.
Into our 16th year as a charity, we really are so grateful for everyone who has supported us this year and want to say a huge thank you for helping to provide that little bit of stability to these young people.