I didn’t choose Zambia – it chose me! I went there initially on a business incentive trip with my late husband, Lawrence. Three years later and nine subsequent visits to Mukuni and surrounding villages I have seen first hand the need, poverty and devastation caused by HIV and AIDS in Zambia.

  
     Accomodation at Mukuni Village                             Mukuni children

Zambia is not only one of the poorest countries in Africa but in the entire world. Two thirds of the population live on less than 50 pence ($1 dollar) a day. Yet it is a country that is at peace, beautiful people, a wealth of national parks and the potential to develop as a major tourist destination. The people need our help to overcome their hardships and education is the key.

• 12,000,000 population
• 710,000 orphans
• one in six adults infected with HIV
• every family infected or affected by HIV/AIDS
• life expentancy is 35 years
• 75% shortage of medical supplies
• Malaria Zone

   
          Victoria Falls after the rains                           Zambezi Elephant Trails

Livingstone is the tourist capitol of Zambia and just a few miles from one of the Severn Wonders of the World – Victoria Falls. This area is fast developing in tourism. New hotels, lodges and attractions are bringing employment and income to the region. Therefore by concentrating in one area The Butterfly Tree is making a difference, improving the health standards, most essentially providing safe, clean water, supporting feeding programs, building classrooms and developing education - the more children that can be educated the more chance they have of getting employment. sponsor an orphan through our orphan sponsorship program, give them hope and let them make the difference.

Running The Butterfly Tree and working in Zambia has been a life-changing experience for me. I have a great affection for these people who have so little and yet they are happy. If we can asssit them by providing the essentials in life – water, food, health and education they are ready to move forward and become sustainable. Get involved and see if you can help to make them to achieve this.