About us
At Mayamiko Child Care Centre, we are committed to providing a safe haven for some of the most vulnerable children in Blantyre, Malawi. As an emergency centre, we work closely with the Ministry of Social Welfare to ensure that every child who comes through our door receives the care and attention they deserve.
How we operate
Our facilities at the moment are primarily geared towards younger children, providing them with a loving and structured home where their immediate needs are met. However, our support doesn’t stop there. We also work diligently to assist older children with reintegration into their communities, helping them to reconnect with their families or find new paths forward in life. Our holistic approach ensures that each child, regardless of their age, is given the tools and opportunities they need to build a brighter future. Currently, we support 51 children, offering them a nurturing environment where they can grow, learn, and thrive.
We work directly with the Ministry of Social Welfare to create different pathways for the children, depending on their age:
It is important to note that every child at Mayamiko has their own unique story and background, which is why we avoid using the term “orphanage”. We find this label oversimplifies their experience and can carry negative connotations. While some of our children are orphans, many have families who, due to illness, age, or financial hardships, are unable to care for them. Others have come to us from situations of abuse, neglect or abandonment. These varied circumstances highlight the complexity of the challenges they face, far beyond the label of “orphan”. At Mayamiko, we honour and respect each child’s background, providing them with not just a home, but a family where they are loved, supported, and empowered to succeed.
How we started
Mayamiko Child Care Centre was established in April 2023 in response to the urgent need for quality childcare services in Malawi. With over half of the country's population under the age of 18, many children face significant challenges, including poverty, lack of access to education, and inadequate healthcare. The need for safe and supportive environments where children can grow and thrive is more pressing than ever.
Recognising this, we partnered with the Ministry of Social Welfare to provide emergency care for children in crisis. Our centre is designed to be a sanctuary for children who require immediate attention, offering them not just a temporary shelter but a stable and loving home. Since opening our doors, we have been dedicated to creating a safe space where children can receive the care, education, and emotional support they need to overcome their circumstances and build a brighter future.
Our mission and vision
Mission Statement: At Mayamiko Child Care Centre, our mission is to empower vulnerable children in Blantyre, Malawi, to overcome adversity and realise their full potential. We are committed to providing comprehensive support, including education, healthcare, and vocational training, to children who have faced the loss of parents, physical and mental abuse, or economic abandonment by their families.
Vision: Our vision is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, can thrive and grow into confident, self-reliant individuals who contribute positively to society. We aim to be a beacon of hope for the children we serve, offering them the tools and opportunities they need to build a brighter future.
Our Approach: Mayamiko Child Care Centre works collaboratively with the Ministry of Social Welfare as an emergency shelter and safe home to identify and assist vulnerable children in need within our community. Our approach is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a happy childhood and a chance to reach their full potential. To achieve this, we provide:
Education: We offer quality education programs that cater to the unique needs of each child, helping them develop academically and intellectually.
Healthcare:Ensuring the well-being of our children is paramount. We provide access to healthcare services and promote healthy living habits.
Vocational Training: We equip older children with valuable life skills and vocational training, preparing them for a self-sufficient future.
Personalised Support: Our team of dedicated and experienced professionals delivers personalised care and guidance to each child, addressing their emotional and psychological needs.
Our Commitment: Mayamiko Child Care Centre is committed to fostering a sense of belonging, security, and love for the children under our care. We uphold the highest standards of ethics and transparency in our operations, ensuring that the generous support we receive is used effectively to benefit the children we serve.