I didn’t choose Zambia – it chose me! I went there initially on a business incentive trip with my late husband. More than 15 years later and over 30 subsequent visits to Mukuni, and surrounding Chiefdoms, I have seen first hand the extreme poverty, the need, and the devastation caused by HIV and AIDS in Zambia.

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 £1 ($2 dollars) a day. Yet it is a country at peace, has beautiful people, a wealth of national parks and the potential to further develop as a major tourist destination. The people are in need of help to overcome their hardships and education is the key.

• 18,000,000 population
• 1.2 million orphans
• one in six adults infected with HIV
• every family infected or affected by HIV/AIDS
• life expectancy is 42 years
• 75% shortage of medical supplies
• Malaria Zone – prevalent all year

     

            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, which is also listed as a World Heritage Site. This area is fast developing in tourism. New hotels, lodges and attractions are bringing employment and income to the region. The Butterfly Tree has made a substantial difference in this area. We improve the health standards, provide safe, clean water, support feeding programmes, build classrooms and develop entire new schools. We are the biggest contributor to education in the Kazungula District. We have expanded our work into Musokotwane, Sikute and Nyawe Chiefdoms.

  

          Zambian Sunset                                                Baobab Tree

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 mostly happy. If we can assist them by providing the essentials in life – water, food, health and education they are ready to move forward and become sustainable. See how you can Get involved and help them to achieve this.